Behind every dentist is a support team of medical professionals and dental assistants who help to keep everything in proper order for the dentist. Contrary to popular belief, a dental assistant does much more than help at the front desk. From preparing materials to taking impressions of a patient’s teeth, and everything in between, dental assistants have a lot they need to take care of. Fortunately, our course at the Dental Assisting School of Arizona can prepare you with the knowledge you will need in only 13 weeks.
The course objective for our program is to prepare students for entry-level positions as a chairside assistant in a dental office. We strive to teach our students the skills they will need to assist dentists and hygienists in a variety of chairside procedures. Since there are a large number of tasks that dental assistants will need to complete, we will cover the essentials in multiple fields of dentistry.
We understand how difficult it can be to stand out as a viable candidate for a job when applying for any position, let alone a position in a medical field. Fortunately, we can help provide students with the knowledge that will help them in applying for dental assistant positions.
While there are more services that we cover in the course, we will take the time to educate our students on all of the necessary procedures to become a dental assistant. A dental assistant needs to be ready for a variety of problems and issues with less than a minute’s notice to help the dentist. We will focus on certain course topics each week at about six hours each week. Below is a summary of the courses for our program.
The first week of the course is an introduction to the profession of dentistry as a whole, including the ethical and legal issues in dentistry. Even if a student is only starting out as a dental assistant, it is crucial to understand these factors. Infection control is another topic we will review in the first week, as well.
The focus of the second week is dental radiology, including human dentition and radiology basics of X-ray procedures. We will also help students understand the proper usage of these devices in a chairside setting.
During the third week, we will review the composition of the teeth and dental terminology. While this can seem basic, it is important to understand the teeth, tissues surrounding the teeth and other basic terminology. We will also continue reviewing radiology basics and X-ray procedures.
The fourth week will involve learning about the bones of the head, muscles of the head/neck, temporomandibular joint and paranasal sinuses. Since everything in the body connects together, an issue with one part of the head can lead to certain oral health issues. Students will also learn about dental charting and the black cavity classifications.
Week 5 will cover oral pathology that includes the oral cavity, salivary glands and the immune system. We will continue the dental charting along with taking alginate impressions and lab materials/techniques.
In week 6, we will go over dental materials, pediatric dentistry, restorative materials and pedodontic procedures. We will also go over restorative techniques that are common in dentistry.
With multiple dental tools and types of artificial teeth available to people, week 7 will focus on removable prosthodontics, fixed prosthodontics and full/partial dentures. With a variety of potential options, it is important to know the differences between each and then identify any signs of damage.
During week 8, we will review endodontics, the necessary instruments and the procedures. We will also instruct students on the proper use and application of topical and local anesthetic while focusing on the techniques for administering anesthesia.
Week 9 will cover orthodontics, periodontics and preventive dentistry. We will cover placing sealants, home bleaching, periodontal treatment and coronal polishing.
During week 10, we will review oral surgery, how to handle medical emergencies in the dental office, various oral surgery procedures, CPR training and certification. While emergencies may not occur every day, it is important to be ready for the possibility.
Week 11 will include an in-depth overview of radiology, front office management and resume preparation.
Week 12 will include a review for the final exam that includes reviewing radiology, instrument transfer, instrument recognition and suction tip positioning. Students will also be able to review other lessons and knowledge they will need for the final exam.
Week 13 is the final exam for the course. Following the exam, students will clock in at 78 hours and at least 50 hours of externship for a total of 128 hours.
Dental Assisting School of Arizona is located at
2233 W. Baseline Road Suite #104B
Tempe, AZ 85283.