Dental Assisting

Award Type: Certificate of Achievement

Approved by the California Board of Dental Examiners, this program provides technical skills needed for employment in a dental office. The student develops skills to participate as a member of the dental health team in chairside general and specialty procedures, office management and x-ray techniques. Admittance to the dental assisting program requires the student to obtain program application forms and follow outlined procedures for enrollment. Applications and specific information are available at the Health Science Office, located in Building M Science Complex. A grade of "C" or better in the designated dental assisting classes is required to progress in the program. Upon completion of the dental assisting certificate requirements, students are eligible to take the California Registered Dental Assistants Examination. Students are encouraged to complete the associate in science degree.

The graduate of the Certificate of Achievement in Dental Assisting will:

1. Perform all Registered Dental Assistant duties as specified by accreditation standards through directed lectures, demonstrations, guided practice, written assignments, exams and evaluation of skills to prepare for taking the Registered Dental Assisting State Board Exam and the Law and Ethics examination and gain employment as a Registered Dental Assistant.
2. Practice assisting skills that demonstrate a working knowledge of infection control protocols.
3. Demonstrate office management skills including computer skills technology to perform the following tasks; scheduling, inventory management, ordering supplies, treatment planning and patient charting.
4. Complete requirements to obtain a certificate in pit and fissure sealants.
5. Complete requirements to obtain a dental x-ray certificate.
6. Complete requirements to obtain a coronal polishing certificate.
7. Apply knowledge of basic dental assisting sciences in a professional setting.
8. Explain the purpose of the state Dental Practice Act.
9. Model professional conduct and appearance and demonstrate behavior of the dental workplace.
10. Assist in diagnostic and operative procedures by demonstrating general chair side skills.