What Does a Dental Assistant Program Teach You?

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A properly trained dental assistant makes all the difference in helping a dental office run smoothly. Between assisting the dentist with exams and preparing the office for its next visitor, each day in this field brings a unique challenge. If you feel up to the challenge, you can attend a Dental Assistant Program to receive the proper training and earn your dental assistant diploma. Attending a Dental Assistant Program is the best way to get started in this field and get all the instruction you need to find an entry-level position where you can continue to learn and grow.

What Does a Dental Assistant Program Teach You?

A Dental Assisting Program will teach you all about dentistry tools, techniques, and procedures. At Florida Career College, our program covers the most up-to-date x-ray techniques, prosthodontics, and preventative dentistry. In our labs, you’ll have the opportunity to practice your skills in a small group setting with a 10 to 1 teacher ratio to ensure proper instruction. At the conclusion of your first seven modules, we’ll help match you with an externship site where you can gain hands-on experience working in a dental office.

The Courses at Florida Career College’s Dental Assisting Program include:

DA 110 Dental Science/Medical Emergencies

This course introduces the development and anatomy of human teeth and the supporting structures in the mouth and face. We will also introduce basic computer skills that relate to working in a dental office. Students will also learn CPR and methods for taking and recording vitals to manage emergencies that may occur in a dental setting.

 

DA 120 Chairside Assisting

In this course, students will be taught about disease transmission and how to properly disinfect instruments and position staff to prevent contamination. With this knowledge, students will be prepared to help keep a dental office clean and sterile and assist chairside during dental procedures.

 

DA 130 Radiography

This course teaches students the ins and outs of dental x-rays. We’ll teach all about the x-ray machine as well as the factors that affect x-ray images. Students can get hands-on experience in radiographic techniques and processing x-rays as well as digital radiography.

 

DA 140 Dental Material

Dental offices often use impressions and casts to create custom trays, mouth guards and temporary crowns. In this module, students will learn about basic laboratory procedures and techniques to measure and mix cement, liners, stone, and plaster used in the dental office.

 

DA 150 Preventive Dentistry

This course teaches the basics of maintaining excellent oral health. Students will learn nutrition, oral hygiene, tooth brushing techniques, plaque control, and applying fluoride. Students will also have the opportunity to practice Pit and Fissure and Coronal Polishing on clinical patients under the supervision of a certified Dental Assistant.

 

DA 160 Dental Specialties

This module discusses the various types of dentistry to help students determine the correct career path for them. Students will learn about endodontics, oral surgery, pedodontics, and orthodontics. Each of these specialties benefits from an experienced and confident dental assistant.

 

DA 170 Prosthodontics/Administrative Assistant

A dental assistant may work both hands-on with the dentist and at the front office, completing administrative tasks. This course teaches students what those office tasks may be, including computer skills, keyboarding, appointment scheduling, telephone techniques, and inventory control. Students will also be trained in HIPAA guidelines.

 

DA 190 Externship

An externship is the chance to put your skills to work and gain real-world experience to build your resume. Externships are served in approved facilities and give students the chance to apply what they’ve learned during their previous courses under the direct supervision of office staff.

What Does a Day in the Life of a Dental Assistant Look Like?

A day in the life of a Dental Assistant is challenging and fast-paced. Your duties may differ depending on the type of dental office you work in or the size of the office, but a dental assistant may be responsible for:

  • Reviewing the day’s schedule and having patient records ready for the dentist
  • Preparing tools and equipment for the day’s exams and ensuring proper sterilization
  • Stocking equipment and ensuring enough inventory
  • Greeting patients
  • Assisting with x-rays and preparing patients for their exam
  • Acting as an extra set of hands during an exam as instructed by the dentist.
  • Ensuring the office is clean and ready for the next appointment

A Dental Assistant’s job is to ensure the office is running smoothly. They may be the first to make patients feel comfortable when they enter the office. A Dental Assistant may also be asked to share follow-up instructions with a patient and teach about proper oral hygiene.

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Dental Assistant?

You can attend the Dental Assistant Training Program at Florida Career College and enter a new career in less than 10 months. Our courses are completed on a hybrid schedule of online lectures and in-person, hands-on labs. We offer classes during the day or evening to meet your needs and may be able to help you get your high school diploma as well.

Consider Enrolling at FCC To Become a Dental Assistant

If becoming a Dental Assistant sounds like a good fit for you, consider enrolling at Florida Career College. We strive to provide Dental Assistant training that meets the needs of the industry and will prepare students to find an entry-level position in the dental field. Our low student-to-teacher ratio and hands-on approach ensure you’ll get the guidance and experience you need to start your new career off with confidence. In addition, our dedicated staff will walk with you every step of the way!

 

Learn How to Become a Dental Assistant!