Dental Assistant
Less than One Year Technical Diploma
Program Number:
305082 Program Courses offered at the following Campuses:
About
The Dental Assistant Program gives students an orientation to the duties of the dental assistant, including chairside assisting, laboratory techniques and dental radiography. Didactic instruction runs concurrently with laboratory instruction throughout the program. Students gain clinical experience in MATC clinical facilities and district dental offices. Aptitudes which will be helpful to students are an ability to pay attention to details, follow instructions, work quickly and independently, be responsible for personal and office organization, interact well with people and be able to manage stress.
Dental Assistant is a one-semester program. Students are accepted for both fall and spring semesters.
Admissions
Requirements for Program Application
The following is required to process your application:
- High School transcript - or
- HSED/GED Test Scores - and
- All College transcripts - and
- COMPASS, ASSET, ACT or SAT test scores. Bachelors Degree waives testing.
Admission Processing Deadlines:
Spring 2010
For this program applications and credentials must be received by October 1st, 2009 to be considered for the spring semester.
Fall 2010
For this program applications and credentials must be received by July 1st, 2010 to be considered for the fall semester.
View additional admission information. PDF (46.13KB)
Program Outcomes
Program Outcomes:
A graduate of the Dental Assistant program will be able to:
- Collect diagnostic and treatment data.
- Manage infection and hazard control.
- Perform clinical supportive treatments.
- Take diagnostic radiographs.
- Perform dental laboratory procedures.
- Provide patient oral health instruction.
- Assist in managing medical emergencies.
- Model professional behaviors, ethics, and appearance.
Employment
Career Potential:
- Chairside Assistants
Work directly with the dentist in the treatment area. - Laboratory Assistants
Perform laboratory functions as directed by the dentist. - Receptionists/Office Assistants
Are responsible for the operation of the business office. - Claims Approvers
Work for an insurance company approving dental insurance claims.
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
- Dental Office Managers
Are responsible for the operation of the practice. - Dental Laboratory Technicians
Perform the mechanical, technically skilled tasks specified by the written prescription of the dentist. - Dental Sales Representative
Work for a dental supply business, which provides products and services to dental offices
Additional Info
Additional Info about the Program:
- Physical exam and completed Medical Physical History Form (PDF) on file prior to beginning of the semester that you are in your clinical affiliation.
- Caregiver Background Check (CBC is required for this Porgram.
- Students must be certified in health care provider CPR before beginning Dental Assistant clinical course work
Last Modified: November 6, 2009