Dental Assisting

The intraoral paralleling technique with its variables; production, characteristics and biologic effects of radiation; function, components and operation of the X-ray unit; radiation protection and monitoring; components and care of X-ray film; chemistry and techniques associated with X-ray film and the developing solutions. Review of anatomical landmarks, X-ray placement, identification and correction of radiographic errors; recording pertinent data; specialized procedures and techniques for pediatric dentistry.

A survey of dental careers to include the legal, ethical, moral and professional responsibilities of dental personnel in the practice of dentistry. Personal requirements, professional conduct, interpersonal relationships, methods of acquiring and training certification of the dental assistant, recognition of dental forms, an introduction to dental and medical terminology, cultural considerations in patient care and interprofessional practice. Two (2) hour of class time per week.

An introduction to dental assisting as it relates to the specialties in dentistry, orthodontics, pedodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, and prosthodontics. A survey of the role of the dental assistant in public health dentistry is included.

A continuation of DA 125 with clinical training in dental specialties, i.e., endodontics, oral surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics and an overview of oral pathology and dental public health. Thirty (30) hours of lecture and 128 hours of clinical experience are required.

A practical, hands-on study of dental laboratory equipment safety and utilization of materials such as plaster/stone/die, model trimming, custom tray acrylic, aluminum and acrylic temporaries, simple orthodontic appliances and prosthodontic cleaning and polishing.

A practical, hands-on study of dental laboratory equipment safety and utilization of materials such as plaster/stone/die, model trimming, custom tray acrylic, aluminum and acrylic temporaries, simple orthodontic appliances and prosthodontic cleaning and polishing.

A practical, hands-on study of dental laboratory equipment safety and utilization of materials such as plaster/stone/die, model trimming, custom tray acrylic, aluminum and acrylic temporaries, simple orthodontic appliances and prosthodontic cleaning and polishing.

A practical, hands-on study of dental laboratory equipment safety and utilization of materials such as plaster/stone/die, model trimming, custom tray acrylic, aluminum and acrylic temporaries, simple orthodontic appliances and prosthodontic cleaning and polishing.

A continuation of DA119 elevating laboratory proficiency to clinical proficiency in accordance with the State Dental Practice Act during one (1) to two (2) rotations in selected private dental practices and public clinics. One hour lecture and 16 to 24 clinical experience hours per week. Students are expected to complete 180-225 clinical hours of the program total of 300 clinical hours, in this course.

Principles of dental office routine, management of dental office supplies, team responsibilities, receptionist and secretarial duties, dental bookkeeping, appointment control, laboratory prescriptions, letter writing, collections, telephone technique and filing. Employment interview techniques, employee rights and benefits, and an introduction to computer application in a dental office.