Dental Assistant

Overview

Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP): 51.0601 (Dental Assisting/Assistant)

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 31-9091.00 (Dental Assistants)

Quarter Credits: 49.5

In-Class Clock Hours: 800

Outside Hours: N/A

Total Hours: 800

Method of Delivery: Residential

Program Length in Weeks: 40*

*Weeks may be extended depending on holiday schedules.

Career Training Objective

Dental Assistants are key members of the dental team. Dentists rely upon Dental Assistants to perform a wide range of patient, clinical and laboratory procedures. As dental procedures continue to expand and patient awareness of dental services increases, Dental Assistants will continue to be indispensable contributors to dental health care and the community.

The College's Dental Assisting program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to qualify for an entry-level position as a Dental Assistant. Graduates may also secure employment in other areas of dentistry, such as Pediatric Dentistry, or as a Back Office Assistant, and may work for public health facilities, hospital dental departments, correctional facilities, schools/universities, clinics, and dental suppliers. Emphasis is placed on the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) written exam. The exam consists of subjects in general dentistry and law and ethics. Students are encouraged to sit for the exam upon successful completion of the program.

The program prepares students for Coronal Polish Certification*, Pit and Fissure Certification* and the requirements necessary to earn a California Radiation Safety Certificate (limited to dental x-ray). Students practice techniques and procedures in a spacious and modern dental laboratory to gain proficiency in those competencies. In addition, equipment, materials, and instruments comparable to those used in an actual dental facility are used in our classrooms.

The training program is divided into learning units called modules. Students must complete all modules. Each core module stands alone and is not dependent upon previous training. Upon successful completion of the classroom and laboratory training, students are required to complete a 160-hour externship. The program includes instruction on the California Dental Practice Act and infection control in accordance with the requirements of the Dental Board of California. Completion of the program is acknowledged by the awarding of a diploma. Students also receive an 8 hour Infection Control certificate and a 2 hour Dental Practice Act certificate.

*The Coronal Polish Certification and Pit and Fissure Certification are awarded by the State of California upon successful completion of the RDA exam and completion of a state examination. Students must successfully complete coronal polish, pit and fissure, and radiation safety written and practical examinations with a minimum score of seventy-five percent (75%).

Instructional Equipment

Dental Operatories, Laboratory work area and Lecture room equipped with the following:

• Amalgamators
• Anatomical Models and Charts
• Autoclave
• Automatic Processing Equipment
• High Speed Handpieces
• Impression Materials
• Instrument Tray Set-ups
• Lathe
• Laboratory Handpieces Model Trimmers/Vibrators
• Oral Evacuation Delivery Units
• Operator Stools
• Practice Mannequins/ Typodonts
• Slow Speed Handpieces
• Ultrasonic Equipment
• Vacuum Former
• X-ray Units
• X-ray View boxes

 

Program Outline

Program Locations: Los Angeles, Orange County and Ontario

Required Courses

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 49.5