Dental Assistant
9 Months – Total Clock Hours: 900
2026 – 2027 Tuition: $11,324
Start date: 8/27/2025
Admission Requirements
Application Fee, Application, Enrollment Agreement, High School Diploma, Transcript or GED, Criminal Record Check, and Child Abuse Clearance.
Program Description
Offered as a hybrid course starting in 2026.
The Dental Assisting program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in dental offices, clinics, and other oral healthcare settings. This 900-hour, 9-month program provides a comprehensive foundation in chairside assisting, radiology, infection control, dental materials, and patient care. Students will develop essential skills in assisting with dental procedures, sterilization techniques, dental anatomy, and practice management. The curriculum emphasizes both technical proficiency and professional ethics, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to support dentists and patients effectively.
This program includes Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) and Infection Control (ICE) certifications through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). These certifications demonstrate proficiency in operating dental radiographic equipment safely and adhering to sterilization and disease prevention protocols. They also enhance employability and fulfill state regulatory requirements for dental assistants.
Students will complete 210 hours of clinical experience in real-world dental settings, applying skills in chairside assisting, patient interaction, and office procedures. This hands-on training reinforces classroom and laboratory learning, ensuring competency in clinical tasks. Upon completing the program, students will be eligible to take the RHS and ICE exams. To qualify for the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam through DANB, two years of work experience is required.
Courses In This Program Include:
Course Descriptions
DAS-101 – Introduction to Dental Assisting, Safety, and Infection Control
In Introduction to Dental Assisting, Safety, and Infection Control, students will explore the fundamentals of the dental profession, including roles and responsibilities, ethical considerations, and workplace safety. Emphasis is placed on infection control procedures, sterilization techniques, and OSHA compliance. Students will also begin preparation for the DANB Infection Control (ICE) exam. (80 lecture hours, 30 lab hours)
DAS-102 – Dental Anatomy and Physiology
In Dental Anatomy and Physiology, students will study the structure and function of the teeth, oral cavity, and supporting tissues. Topics include tooth morphology, numbering systems, occlusion, and common dental pathologies. Understanding oral anatomy is essential for assisting in procedures and patient education. (40 lecture hours, 20 lab hours)
DAS-103 – Dental Materials and Instrumentation
In Dental Materials and Instrumentation, students will learn about the properties and uses of dental materials, including composites, amalgams, impression materials, and cements. Hands-on training will focus on instrument identification, maintenance, and tray setup for various dental procedures. (25 lecture hours, 25 lab hours)
DAS-104 – Chairside Assisting I: General Dentistry
In Chairside Assisting I: General Dentistry, students will develop skills in four-handed dentistry, patient positioning, and assisting with restorative procedures. Topics include ergonomics, instrument transfer techniques, and maintaining a sterile field. Emphasis is placed on efficiency and patient comfort. (80 lecture hours, 30 lab hours)
DAS-105 – Radiology and Radiation Safety
In Radiology and Radiation Safety, students will learn the principles of dental radiography, including exposure techniques, image management and viewing, and digital imaging. Safety protocols and regulatory compliance will be emphasized to prepare students for the DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam. (80 lecture hours, 72 lab hours)
DAS-106 – Dental Specialties and Clinical Procedures
This course provides an in-depth exploration of dental specialties, including orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, endodontics, and prosthodontics. Students will refine their chairside assisting techniques through hands-on practice in advanced clinical procedures, gaining experience in specialty treatments and complex patient care. The combination of lecture and lab hours ensures a comprehensive understanding of both foundational and advanced skills necessary for assisting in specialized dental procedures. (80 lecture hours, 30 lab hours)
DAS-201 – Dental Office Management and Communication
In Dental Office Management and Communication, students will learn essential administrative skills, including scheduling, insurance processing, electronic health records, and patient communication. Professionalism and ethical considerations in dental practice will also be emphasized. (78 lecture hours, 20 lab hours)
DAS-202 – Clinical Externship
In Clinical Internship, students will apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world dental setting. Under the supervision of experienced professionals, they will gain hands-on experience in chairside assisting, sterilization, radiology, and patient care. This clinical rotation ensures students are workforce-ready and meet employer expectations. (210 externship hours)