Dental Assistant

​Dental Assistants work in dental offices assisting dentists in providing services to patients. The majority of the work is performed for procedures that include development of impressions, assisting with treatment such as fillings and root canals, and preparation of patient operatory. They may assist in reception and scheduling duties, sterilization of instruments, cleaning and disinfection of operatories, exposing radiographs, and other duties. Hours are generally standard daytime with some evening and weekend flexibility depending on the facility. This program trains you to become a member of a dental team developing impressions, assisting with fillings and root canals and preparing patients for procedures. In addition dental assistants often assist with reception and scheduling duties, sterilization of equipment and oral radiography. As a participant students will be trained to demonstrate clinical competencies of a Radiation Health Technologist, learn how to function safely and efficiently as a member of the dental team under the supervision of the dentist, communicate effectively with patients and dental team members, and exhibit legal and ethical behavior which adheres to professional conduct standards for dentistry.

Prospective students should be detail oriented, demonstrate dexterity (good at working with hands), interpersonal skills, listening skills, and organizational skills. ​According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment the number of dental assistants has been projected to grow 8% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. 56,400 openings for dental assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Program Course Sequence

Prerequisite (Must be completed prior to enrolling in AHL184 Dental Assistant Application Course in order to apply for the program):

Course Sequence: