Experienced Instructors. Personalized Courses. Hybrid Learning


Photo of two dental professionals, Dr. Lee and Marie, with a large banner that reads, 'OUR STORY'

Who We Are

Our mission is to share the professional knowledge, skills, and real-world insight we’ve gained throughout our careers with the next generation of dental professionals.


Why We Started Our Business

We founded our school to create a comprehensive learning environment for anyone pursuing a career in dental assisting, whether you’re just beginning or already working in the field and seeking additional certifications. Over the years, we’ve watched the dental profession expand rapidly, with new specialties and opportunities emerging for skilled assistants. Our goal is to prepare students for this growing, evolving field by offering education that meets every stage of their journey.


Why Join Our Program

Our program is designed with students at the center. We advocate for your success, support your goals, and guide you from foundational training all the way to advanced certifications. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to elevate your career, we are committed to helping you build confidence and master essential skills.

Our Program

  • Our 4-month accelerated program is designed to train you in launching your career as a dental assistant!
  • The coursework is delivered online, with students attending one in‑person, 8‑hour lab session each week for hands‑on clinical training.
  • Throughout the program, students also complete a 56‑hour internship to gain clinical experience and prepare for the Dental Assistant National Board exam.
  • All of our instructors are highly experienced and board certified. You will get real clinical experience with real patients.
  • All from our dental office in Springfield, OR! You won't have to drive to another location, like many other programs.
Photo of two dental professionals smiling at a mock student who is holding a certificate of completion

Our Highly Experienced Instructors

The instructors at McKenzie Dental Practices of Oregon are highly experienced, educated, and board certified. They are dedicated to working with each student to ensure quality education and clinical work.

Photo of Dr. Lee, the founder and dentist of McKenzie Dental Practices of Oregon, LLC

James Lee, DDS

Founder

Dr. Lee grew up in Calgary, Alberta, and graduated from Loma Linda University in 1992 with the highest clinical award. In 1996, he and his wife Elaine moved to Oregon where they have been raising their three kids. When Dr. Lee isn’t working, you can find him spending time with his family, enjoying the outdoors, playing golf, cycling, fishing, and doing mission work. He has served as a Dental Director for a mission clinic in Moscow, Russia.

Photo of Marie, the lead didactic instructor of McKenzie Dental Practices of Oregon, LLC.

Marie, EFDA, AnA-IV

Lead Dental Instructor

Marie is a graduate of Concorde Career College and brings 16 years of dental experience to the field. Throughout her career, she has earned multiple certifications, including Anesthesia and IV Therapy. With her extensive background, Marie now oversees the curriculum of the dental assisting program, providing students with a strong foundation and knowledge.

Hands-on Training. Real Experience. Experienced Professionals.

Photo of a map with marker of McKenzie Dental Center and McKenzie Dental Practices of Oregon, LLC's dental office, text above marker that reads 'McKenzie Dental Practices of Oregon, LLC', and text on the bottom right corner that reads '© OpenStreetMap contributors'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mission Statement

The mission of McKenzie Dental Practices of Oregon is to expertly train future dental assistants for a long fruitful career. The educators are dedicated to helping each student be the best that they can be, thus being able to make a real difference in peoples lives. The educators are also dedicated in community service, and wish to pass this legacy to each student that comes our way.