Hawaiʻi is facing a serious shortage of dental assistants, making it harder for clinics to operate at full capacity and provide care to patients. More than 90% of employers say hiring is challenging, often leading to reduced patient care availability, according to the Hawaiʻi Dental Association.
Kapiʻolani Community College’s Dental Assisting Program is stepping up to fill this gap—with cutting-edge technology that sets students apart. Thanks to a generous grant from the Hawaiʻi Dental Services Foundation, students now train with some of the most advanced dental tools available.
There were 1,350 dental assistants employed across the state in 2023 and that number is expected to grow by 15% by 2030.
Tech in the classroom
One of the biggest upgrades is 3D printing, allowing students to create dental molds, retainers, and nightguards—skills that are rare in the field. Only 10% of dental assistants nationwide have 3D printing experience, making Kapiʻolani CC’s program a national leader.
“As dental offices across the islands continue to modernize, there is a growing demand for dental assistants trained in the latest technological advancements,” said Dental Assisting Program Director Mark Nartatez. “The technological advancements we acquired not only enrich student learning but also prepare them to meet the increasing expectations of modern dental practices.”
Other notable enhancements include:
- Digital and phosphor plate radiography—Imaging techniques for clearer, faster X-rays.
- Intraoral photography—Real-time imaging for better patient care and communication.
- Digital impressions—Ensuring students are fluent in both analog and digital workflows.
“Faculty innovation and dedication within the Health Academic Programs play a significant role in enhancing student learning experiences,” said Karen Boyer, dean of Health Academic Programs. “By forging strong industry partnerships and integrating emerging technologies, our faculty align the learning environment with workforce needs and strengthen student learning and career readiness.”
Shere Saneishi-Kim, director of Hawaiʻi Dental Service Foundation, added, “We’re pleased to support Kapiʻolani CC‘s Dental Assisting program with state-of-the-art dental equipment to build their skills and confidence with equipment they will utilize when joining the dental workforce. Qualified dental assistants are in great demand throughout the state, and we look forward to welcoming the graduates into a successful career in the dental field.”
