Program Outline For
Entry Level Dental Assisting

The in-depth 10 week program will cover the topics listed below

DA1.1 Dental Theory and Terminology

A. Dental and oral anatomy, tooth identification and numbering
system
B. Anatomy and physiology of the head and neck
C. Instrument nomenclature and identification for all aspects of
General Dentistry
D. Dental terminology
E. Equipment operation, chair positioning, assistant equipment usage
F. Treatment options available, depending on oral conditions

DA1.2 Receptionist–Front Office Management

A. Phone techniques and appointment book control
B. Billing; accounts receivable and accounts payable
C. Filing insurance forms and pre-treatment estimates
D. Insurance terminology

DA1.3 Four Handed Dental Assisting

A. The taking and recording of vital signs
B. Hand washing techniques and practices
C. First aid training and emergency care
D. Instruction in HIV/AIDS awareness/prevention
E. Safety techniques while working in the laboratory or with patients
F. Instrument transfer techniques, chair-side assisting and patient
suctioning
G. Body mechanics for the patient and assistant
H. Tub and tray systems of instruments and materials

I. Familiarity and use of instruments and materials in assisting for:

Operative Dentistry – amalgam and composite fillings
Oral Surgery – instruments, procedures and post-op protocol
Crown and Bridge – impression taking, temporary fabrication, cord packing, hemostatic agents, introduction into various crown types
Endodontics – instruments, medicaments and materials; how and why they are used
Periodontics– disease origin and usual treatment methods
Pedodontics – commonality and difference in treating children vs. adult patients

DA1.4 Radiology - 35 hours

A. X-ray theory: how xrays are produced, radiation exposure, staff
and patient protection methods, use of Rinn holders and other
methods
B. Comparison of dental xray exposure to other types (hospital) of
xrays
C. Digital xrays: digital sensors and Scanex® systems
D. Viewing xrays on a computer
E. Identifying teeth using anatomic landmarks on xrays
F. Intraoral, bitewing, panoramic, and endodontic exposure methods
G. Developing x-rays using the automatic processor
H. Darkroom care and maintenance
I. X-ray interpretation, safety and precautions
J. Review of common errors in xray technique
K. Students will perform an acceptable digital panoramic xray and at
least two complete digital FMX sets, consisting of 18 radiographs
each

DA1.5 Cements and Liners – 10 hours

A. Introduction to various cements and liners used in dentistry
B. Practice mixing cements and liners

DA1.6 Impressions and Model Trimming

A. Impression materials and practice in their uses: alginates,
polyvinyl silicone, etc.
B. Wax bites, counter impressions
C. Model pouring and trimming

DA1.7 Sterilization Techniques

A. Sterilization theory and terminology, autoclave operation
B. Instrument and equipment sterilization/disinfection
C. Treatment room disinfection and asepsis techniques
D. Handpiece care and maintenance

DA1.8 Pharmacology and Anesthesia

A. Functions of pharmacology and anesthesia as they relate to
dentistry
B. Common drugs or their reactions/allergies as they relate to
dentistry
C. The use of PDR (Pharmaceutical Drug Reference)
D. Topical anesthetics and their proper application/side effects

DA1.9 Job Interview and Placement Assistance

A. Proper image, dress, resume, and how to prepare for the job interview
process
B. Difficult questions you may face – how to answer them
C. Do’s and don’ts during the interview

DA1.10 Clinical Externship Program

A. 40 Hours spent in a working dental office
B. Perform all tasks learned in class

Program Outline For Entry Level Dental Assisting