First Class Dental Assisting · Nashville area

A fresh new career in 10 weeks. For less than $250 a month.

Want a new career, but worried about paying for school? Explore a payment plan for our 10-week dental assisting program in the Nashville area.

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Course Snapshot

10 weeksProgram length
Fridays7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Online courseworkDuring the week
Nashville areaHands-on training
January 2027Exact date to be confirmed
Start with the basicsNo dental experience needed

Let’s see what could fit your budget.

Get the payment schedule, what’s due to start, and answers before you decide.

See where you’ll learn and who will help you.

First Class students and instructors learning together in a dental office
First Class students showing their temporary crown workFirst Class student practicing with a dental model

51 five-star reviews

What students say.

“The program was well-structured and covered everything from basic dental procedures to working with patients and understanding office operations. I especially appreciated the hands-on training, which gave me real-world experience and prepared me for what to expect in a dental office. Overall, I would highly recommend this dental assisting school to anyone interested in starting a career in dentistry. It gave me the skills, knowledge, and confidence I needed to take the next step in my career.”

alyson hillGoogle review

“I loved this program so much! Even though it felt short I still felt ready and very much prepared to go and be in my new field. I loved my classmates and all my teachers! It was just so much fun :)”

Jaida SinclaireGoogle review

“I just recently graduated from FCDental Assisting school and absolutely loved it! I had gone through a traditional trade school and hated the hours and debt! First Class Dental Assisting school also has THE BEST instructors. LaJohnna, Ruthie and Dr. McLaughlin will make sure you are more than prepared to take on the dental world!”

Shelby ParrishGoogle review

“I had a wonderful experience at First Class Dental Assisting school of Nashville! Dr. McLaughlin was absolutely phenomenal. Always came in with a positive attitude, and a smile! Ruby was also super helpful and kind always. Those two made the process super smooth and enjoyable! I highly recommend! 🤍🤍🤍”

Myeshia ButlerGoogle review

“Absolutely wonderful experience! All instructors truly care and strive to teach you everything you need to know. Their goal is to have you prepared to go into the workforce. I highly recommend for anyone who wants to become a dental assistant!”

Jessica SullivanGoogle review

“Recent graduate. Wonderful program. Great instructors. Instructors set you for success and make sure you understand the material. 10/10 would recommend to anyone wanting a new career start.”

Reganah BrightGoogle review

“I recently completed this program, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience! Dr. McLaughlin and Lajohnna are the BEST!! The curriculum was well-structured, covering everything from dental terminology and procedures to hands-on training with real equipment. The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, making sure we understood each concept before moving on. I appreciated the balance between classroom learning and practical application, which helped me feel confident and prepared for my new career. The small class size also made it easy to get personalized guidance. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to jumpstart their career in the dental field!”

Shamiya LancasterGoogle review

“The school was amazing. They are so educational and patient with us students. They really do support you through your journey even after you leave. I highly recommend First Class Dental Assisting school to become a dental assistant!”

Ryan BrooksGoogle review

“I can’t say an enough good words about this school. They truly are great teachers. The fact that they were only teaching once every Friday was another plus for me. I was able to keep working my full time job as well as going to school. I made a 2 hr drive to and from where I live because of how much I like this program. I would totally recommend this program for anyone wanting to be a Dental Assistant.”

Samantha SloughGoogle review

“If I could offer ten stars, I would!! It was one of the nicest experiences I've ever had! You'll feel like a member of the school community. Everyone is amazing and friendly, and they are excellent educators. Thank you for being an excellent pick. I loved everything about it. I strongly recommend this school! 🤍”

Alsemon GergesGoogle review

“First Class Dental Assisting is truly ‘First Class’! Let me start by saying you're never too old to go back to school! I attended with my daughter and it was truly an amazing experience! Dr. McLaughlin was such a great teacher! He truly cares about each and every student. Very thorough with instruction and lectures at every class. Not only very informative, they all make it FUN to learn! LaJohnna and Ruthy were so down to earth and helpful with making sure you ‘got it’ with each class! We looked forward to every Friday with them. Cade keeps you informed weekly with your lectures, all the updates, and is always available for any questions you may have. Graduation was bitter sweet! We were excited, yet sad to leave! We truly enjoyed our school❤️ Within just a few days of graduating, we had job offers at a place we job shadowed with and couldn't be happier to get our new career started. If you're looking to start a career with Dental Assisting, look no further! This is your school!”

gina jacobsGoogle review

“This school is great for anyone who wants to peruse their career in the dental field. They have great instructors who care about you and will do anything to help! I had an amazing time learning at this school!”

Tanya CaratacheaGoogle review

“Just graduated from the 10 week course with First Class Dental Assisting school of Nashville and it was definitely an unforgettable experience. Dr. McLaughlin was an incredible instructor. He was always really helpful and sincere. LaJohnna and Ruthy were also very sweet and they helped me with the hands-on training until I got it down. I truly recommend this school to anyone wanting a jumpstart to their dental assisting career. If you’re looking for a place with hands-on training, highly experienced faculty, and opportunities for community outreach, this is surely the place for you. :)”

Heleen zubeerGoogle review

“I had an excellent experience! The instructor and the staff were awesome, helpful, and knowledgeable. I now know so much more about the field of dentistry and I am thrilled to begin my new career as a dental assistant. If you want to become a RDA, I highly recommend this program and it's only 10 weeks! Thank you Dr. McLaughlin, Cade, LaJohnna, and Ruthy!”

Kayla Michelle ManzanaGoogle review

“I am so very proud to have went through with this opportunity! I completed these courses 7 months pregnant and it’s worth EVERY penny 🥰 The instructors was amazing, the staff all around showed no irritation or frustration about questions that you may have. The hands on Friday’s are very informative and actually HANDS ON. 10/10 if you’re looking for a career and want to take a step into a new chapter First Class Dental is the place for you🥰”

Asya TuckerGoogle review

“It was a great experience and opportunity to get to learn new things and make great connections! I got a job offer before I even finished the class due to how these companies need dental assistants! I would definitely recommend to anyone looking to start a new journey into the dental field!”

Kayla DobleGoogle review

“I could not recommend this school anymore. Not only was it incredibly educational, it was also very efficacious. I was blessed to have gotten started in my career while in this program and I am still with the practice! I truly would tell anyone to go through this program to become an RDA in TN because of the knowledge learned, the clinical hours, the connection to offices to shadow, the opportunities for careers, and the help with the licensure! You will also get your X-Ray certification and your CPR certification from this well deserved credential program. I will forever be grateful for Dr. M and his staff. I also highly recommend going to him for any services he offers! He is an A+++ dentist who truly cares with amazing assistants and incredible staff surrounding him.”

Theresa Kim De PriestGoogle review

“I couldn’t be more happy with First Class Dental Assisting School of Nashville. The staff was very welcoming, professional, and knowledgeable. I would recommend this school to anyone looking to become a dental assistant.”

Jocilynn RileyGoogle review

“I absolutely loved everything about going to school at First Class Dental Assisting! It was very amazing, hands on, and informative! I would recommend this to everybody who feels like Dental Assisting is for them! I loved Mrs. Lajhonna, Dr. M, and Mrs. Ruthie!”

alley beth cookGoogle review

“I just graduated from First Class Dental Assisting School of Nashville and I loved every bit of this amazing program. The staff that works here is amazing and always very patient with the students. I loved how well structured and organized this program was. I am so glad I chose to go here! If anyone is thinking about attending here I truly recommended attending here!”

Tia MarchGoogle review

“This school taught me so much. I would recommend it to any one wanting to be a dental assistant. The instructors are nice and full of some much knowledge. The instructors really care about every one of their students. I was never afraid to ask a question when I needed help and they always had the answer.”

Amanda NelsonGoogle review

“First Class Dental Assisting School of Nashville was amazing! I really connected with the staff there, Ms. LaJohnna is so much fun and really knows how to get the class to have fun learning and helps you understand all things dental 😊 Highly recommend!”

Inez RosasGoogle review

“I just graduated from FCDA and it was an amazing experience! Dr. McLaughlin, LaJohnna, and Ruthy were so helpful and they truly care about the success of all their students. This program definitely gives you that kick start you need to start your forever career! My mom and I did this together and I can truly say no matter your age this program will be great for you!”

kaci jewelGoogle review

“This school is a great place to go to get started in your dental assisting career. You learn the basics and what you need to know starting out in a job. You get what you put in!”

Emma NowlinGoogle review

“10/10!! Love this school. So sad to leave and it went by so quickly!! Absolutely love the staff that helps train us their sweet hearts! I learned so much everything was pretty much hands on, I couldn’t recommend this school enough for adults who want to go into this field! They help you with everything including resumes and applications for your license. Definitely recommend going here others then anywhere else”

victoria bowersGoogle review

“I have nothing but good things to say about this school. The instructors are great at their job and made school fun everyday. If you are thinking about going to school for dental assisting, I definitely recommend this place.”

Montana CellucciGoogle review

“I highly recommend First Class Dental Assisting School. First and foremost I would like to add that this school is more than just learning you gain life long friends and also connections in the dentistry world. If you’re looking to understand material and retain dental procedures this is your place.”

Olivia MaysGoogle review

“An amazing experience! Made me confident of the knowledge in the field of dentistry. As a person who learns visually having an hands-on experience was very helpful! The Instructors took their time in answering all of my questions with one on one guidance.”

chandani patelGoogle review

“This school was the best decision I ever made! It was a wonderful experience with amazing teachers who helped in every step of the process. I can now start a career I’m going to love all thanks to them!”

Destiny TomlinsonGoogle review

“Very fulfilling experience. Instructors are sincere and want each student to succeed! Definitely recommend to any fellow students who want to learn and learn at a reasonable pace. You won’t regret!”

Gabrielle ReedGoogle review

“I had such a great experience here! All of the teachers are amazing. I have learned so much from this school and I highly recommend!”

Hannah burtonGoogle review

“I truly can’t recommend this program enough! I learned so much and the staff is so kind and helpful. If you’re thinking about pursuing a career as a dental assistant, this is the place to start!”

Halle PetersGoogle review

“The practice was very nice & well oriented. Lahjonana was such an amazing instructor. Loved having the chance to do a lot of hands on learning!”

lujoyia tvGoogle review

“This school is absolutely amazing! The staff are very patient and understanding. They truly made this opportunity unforgettable and rewarding. I’m honored to say that I’ve graduated from the school. I highly recommend experiencing!”

Kierra HaynesGoogle review

“I chose to come here to continue my education, as that was the best decision I made! I loved my classmates and being able to meet new people. Dr. McLaughlin, Mrs. Ruthee, and Mrs. La Johnna were such a big help!”

Avery LongGoogle review

“I love this school soo much, they are so flexible with payment plans and the teachers there are so amazing, they do everything in their power to help make sure you understand and are comfortable doing everything!”

Myah SantiagoGoogle review

“I would recommend this school to anyone looking to begin their career in the dental field! The staff is amazing and I am beyond thankful for them!”

Sarah HarrisonGoogle review

“One of the best learning experiences ever! So grateful for this pivotal introduction into Dentistry, in just 10 weeks.”

Latorica ClaybrooksGoogle review

“I loved the school and instructors. Very highly recommend.”

Taylor BennettGoogle review

“Highly recommend this program. Very thankful to all the instructors they were very patient, nice, and always happy to help and answer any questions. A positive atmosphere. So excited to start my career. Worth every penny.”

Adrianna ZaragozaGoogle review

“10/10 recommend First Class Dental Assisting to anyone looking to become a RDA! Awesome instructors who will go out of their way to see their students succeed.”

kayveon holtGoogle review

“This is a wonderful program from start to finish. The educators are very knowledgeable, supportive and caring! I highly recommend this school!”

Christina CaraveauGoogle review

“I am so happy that I decided to go to school here! The instructors were some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met!”

Kennedy SnyderGoogle review

“If you’re thinking about going here to be a RDA do it! Amazing instructors, they help you along the way & it’s always a good time! 10/10!”

Kyra HolmanGoogle review

“Just the first day of class is all I needed to know that dentistry was the field I was supposed to be in. Everyone here is 100% committed to making sure you have everything you need to be a great dental assistant.”

KayGoogle review

“Great School, very informative, amazing teachers, I would definitely recommend!”

ali woodardGoogle review

“Great experience, and super nice instructors.”

jade rodriguezGoogle review

“Had a great experience! Staff was hands on, helpful, and informative. Loved itttt🦷”

Ayana FosterGoogle review

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First Class certificate celebration with Dr. McLaughlin

Built by a dentist who wanted students to feel more prepared.

Dr. Bryan McLaughlin saw the gap between finishing school and feeling ready to work in a dental office. First Class grew out of his desire to help students practice the skills they would use on the job.

Meet us

A few things you might be wondering

What would my payments look like?

Let’s talk through a payment plan that works for your budget. We’ll explain the down payment, monthly schedule, and any interest before you decide.

Do I need dental experience?

No dental experience is needed to begin learning. You’ll start with the basics and build your skills with guidance.

Can I do this while I’m working?

Plan for a full Friday in class, plus online work during the week. There is also an orientation before classes begin.

What will I actually learn?

You’ll practice chairside assisting, infection control, dental imaging, and communicating with patients. Take a look at What You’ll Learn to picture your time in class.

You don’t have to figure out the cost alone.

Tell us how to reach you. We’ll talk through the payment options and next steps.