Program Description

The goal of the dental assisting program is to train the student to become a productive member of the dental health team. This includes preparing the student for a variety of duties performed by the dental assistant in the contemporary dental office, including chairside assisting, laboratory procedures, administrative duties, and expanded functions. Our ultimate goal is to prepare students to successfully gain entry-level employment as a dental assistant.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Perform chairside techniques for a variety of dental procedures, utilizing current concepts of dental assisting after preparation of the treatment room with the appropriate instruments and materials.
2. Perform entry level expanded functions as allowable by State Regulatory Agencies.
3. Perform laboratory procedures including operating dental equipment used in laboratory settings.
4. Apply appropriate dental terminology related to patient care, records maintenance, and business office procedures.
5. Demonstrate first aid and management techniques to medical emergencies in dental practice.
6. Articulate appropriate attitude and ethical conduct for gaining trust of associates and patients.
7. Produce diagnostic radiographs utilizing appropriate safety measures.

Potential Occupational Titles

Potential occupational titles for this program include, but are not limited to, dental assistant.

Program Content

A minimum of 47.00 semester credit hours is required for graduation.