Dental Assistant

One-Year Technical Diploma
31-508-1

The Dental Assistant Program prepares graduates to work with dentists as they examine and treat patients. Dental Assistants with documented skills will carry out a variety of laboratory, clinical, and office duties. Some dental assistants manage the office and are responsible for patient scheduling and bookkeeping functions. Graduates receive a technical diploma and are eligible to write the certification examination of the Dental Assisting National Board. Most dental assistants work in general or specialized dental offices, either for individual dentists or for groups of dentists. Some dental assistants may choose to work for insurance companies, dental laboratories, or dental supply companies. 

Prior to enrolling in the Dental Assistant program (508) courses, students must complete an online criminal background check. There is an additional fee associated with the background check process.

Program Outcomes

  • Perform a variety of advanced supportive dental procedures.
  • Manage infection and hazard control.
  • Produce diagnostic intraoral and extraoral radiographs on a variety of patients.
  • Perform advanced dental laboratory procedures.
  • Demonstrate professional behaviors, ethics, and appearance.
  • Perform dental office business procedures.

Graduates Have Found Employment As

  • Dental Assistant
  • Dental Receptionist
  • Dental Office Manager
  • Dental Practice Manager
  • Dental Lab Technician
  • Dental Insurance Claims Processor
  • Dental Sales Representative
  • Dental Treatment Coordinator
  • Dental Specialty Assistant

View the entire course listing.

Plan of Study Grid
Semester 1Credits
508-101 Dental Health Safety 1
508-103 Dental Radiography 2
508-113 Dental Materials 2
508-302 Dental Chairside 5
508-304 Dental & General Anatomy 2
508-306 Dental Assistant Clinical 3
508-307 Dental Assistant Professionalism 1
 Credits16
Semester 2
508-120 Dental Office Management 2
508-308 Dental Chairside Advanced 5
508-309 Dental Laboratory Procedures 4
508-310 Dental Radiography - Advanced 1
508-311 Dental Assistant Clinical Advanced 2
801-198 Speech 3
 Credits17
 Total Credits33

General Education Courses Within Program

801-198Speech3