Hands-On Training Environment

Our program emphasizes learning by doing. Students work with equipment and materials used in modern dental offices and receive guided practice throughout the course. Instruction takes place in a supportive educational environment with opportunities to build practical competence through repeated application and demonstration.

Course Overview

This course provides foundational instruction in the principles and practices of dental assisting. Students will learn essential chairside, administrative, and clinical-support skills used in general dental practices. Training includes classroom instruction, demonstrations, hands-on practice, and guided skill development in a simulated clinical environment.

The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment as dental assistants. Completion of this course results in a Certificate of Completion. Additional state requirements may apply for individuals seeking regulated credentials.

Course Duration

12 Weeks

• Class Sessions: 1–2 days per week (scheduled by cohort)
• Total Instructional Hours: ~90–120 hours (lecture + lab practice)

Course Learning Objectives

By the end of the program, students will be able to:

Clinical & Chairside Skills

• Demonstrate proper preparation of treatment rooms and equipment
• Assist the dentist during common procedures using four-handed dentistry principles
• Practice infection control techniques following established protocols
• Identify and handle basic dental instruments and materials
• Support patients before, during, and after dental procedures

Radiography Foundations

(Note: practical radiography tasks may require additional state-approved training)

• Explain basic radiographic principles
• Understand safety regulations, exposure precautions, and image quality factors

Patient & Practice Management

• Follow administrative tasks such as scheduling, record accuracy, and communication
• Demonstrate appropriate professional behavior, confidentiality, and patient rapport

Weekly Course Breakdown

Week 1 — Introduction to Dentistry & Dental Assisting

• Overview of dental team roles
• Professional expectations, safety practices, communication
• Tour of equipment and lab stations

Week 2 — Infection Control & Sterilization

• Chain of infection
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Instrument processing workflow
• Operatory cleaning procedures

Week 3 — Dental Anatomy & Terminology

• Tooth surfaces, numbering systems
• Dental charting basics
• Review of common dental terms

Week 4 — Chairside Assisting I

• Principles of four-handed dentistry
• Basic instrument transfer
• Maintaining a clear operating field

Week 5 — Chairside Assisting II

• Setup for common restorative procedures
• Tray assembly and material management
• Patient positioning and safety

Week 6 — Dental Materials I

• Impression materials
• Model pouring and trimming
• Temporary restorations (demonstration only)

Week 7 — Dental Materials II

• Cements, liners, and bonding agents
• Mixing and handling techniques
• Lab safety practices

Week 8 — Radiography Theory

• Introduction to X-ray equipment
• Radiation safety fundamentals
• Exposure technique principles
  

Week 9 — Office & Records Management

• Patient communication
• Appointment scheduling foundations
• Medical history review
• Confidentiality and documentation standards
  

Assessments & Requirements

To receive a Certificate of Completion, students must:

• Attend a minimum of 85% of scheduled sessions
• Complete all required lab activities
• Demonstrate competency in designated skill areas
• Achieve a passing score on written and practical evaluations
• Maintain professional conduct throughout the program

Materials Provided

• Course handbook
• Lab supplies for in-class use
• Personal protective equipment (initial issue)

Students Must Bring:

• Notebook and writing materials
• Closed-toe shoes and clinical-appropriate attire

Instructor Support

Instructors are available before or after class sessions for additional help, clarification of topics, or review of skills.