ObjectivesThe Dental Assistant plays a vital role in the organized delivery of dental services. These programs train students in both theory and practical application in the fundamentals of dental radiography. Students are introduced to dental science and become Cardiopulmonary (CPR) certified. In addition, students engage in "hands-on" training with regard to dental equipment, instruments, and tray set-ups. Students are also taught proper dental health and laboratory procedures. Moreover, students are taught the basic dental office administrative procedures.
Course descriptionThe Diploma program provides the background, which enables a student to assume a responsible entry-level position as a Dental Assistant. Required chair-side skills as well as administrative procedures are taught for use in large or small dental practices. The Associate of Science Degree Program expands upon the Diploma Program with an additional seven courses of general education that provide the foundation for a graduate to find expanded long-term career opportunities. The Associate of Science Degree Program emphasizes communication skills that will give the graduates a competitive edge. The knowledge gained in this program, combined with work experience, may provide future entry-level opportunities in managing an office. Upon successful completion of either the Associate of Science or the Diploma Program, graduates may secure such specific positions as Chair-side Assistant and Dental Receptionist.
Classroom procedures
Each course stands alone as a unit of study and is not dependent upon prerequisite training. A student may enter the program at the beginning of any course and continue through the sequence until completion of all courses.
Externship
The externship is undertaken following the successful completion of all classroom training, averaging eight hours a day. This externship is unpaid.