Course Outline

Practical Concepts In Dental Assisting

The following subjects are covered in depth from both a didactic and a practical clinical experience. During their course of study, the students learn the operation of all equipment, instrumentation and materials commonly used in a general dental practice. Details of the student's extensive clinical training are outlined below.

I. Dental Theory and Terminology (12 Clock Hours) (Weeks #1 and #9)
A. Dental and oral anatomy, tooth identification and numbering system
B. Instrument nomenclature and identification for all aspects of General Dentistry
C. Dental terminology
D. Equipment operation, chair positioning, assistant equipment usage
E. Treatment options available, depending on oral conditions

II. Receptionist - Front Desk Office Management (8 Clock Hours) (Weeks #7 - #8)
A. Phone techniques and appointment book scheduling
B. Billing: accounts receivable and collections
C. Filing insurance forms and pre-treatment estimates
D. Insurance terminology

III. Four-Handed Dental Assisting (24 Clock Hours) (Weeks #2, #4, #5, #6 #7, & #9)
A. Instrument transfer techniques
B. Chair-side assisting, patient suctioning, and doctor-patient-assistant positioning
C. Tub and tray systems of instruments and materials
D. Familiarity and use of instruments and materials in assisting for:
    1. Operative Dentistry-amalgam and composite restorations
    2. Oral Surgery - instruments, procedures and post-op protocol
    3. Crown and Bridge - impression taking techniques, temporary crown fabrication, cord
        packing, hemostatic agents, and introduction into various crown types
    4. Endodontics - instruments, medicaments and materials: how and why they are used
    5. Periodontics - disease origin and usual treatment methods
    6. Pedodontics/Orthodontics - differences in treating children vs. adult patients

IV. Radiology (8 Clock Hours) (Week #3)
A. X-ray theory and technique, use of Rinn© holders and other methods
B. Intraoral, bitewing, and endodontic exposure methods
C. Developing x-rays using a digital x-ray system
D. Automatic processor care and maintenance
E. X-ray identification, interpretation, safety and precautions

V. Impressions and Model Trimming (8 Clock Hours) (Weeks #1, #5, and #9)
A. Impression materials and practice in their uses: alginates and poly vinyl siloxane
B. Wax bites, triple tray impressions
C. Model pouring and trimming

VI. Cements and Liners (4 Clock Hours) (Week #4)
A. Introduction to various cements and liners used in dentistry
B. Practice mixing cements and liners

VII. Sterilization Techniques (8 Clock Hours) (Weeks #2 and #8)
A. Sterilization theory and terminology, autoclave operation
B. Instrument and equipment sterilization / disinfection
C. Dental operatory disinfection and asepsis techniques
D. Handpiece care and maintenance

VIII. Job Interview Preparation and Constructing a Professional Resume
(4 Clock Hours) (Weeks #9 and #10)

IX. Preparation for Common Dental Office Emergencies and Certification in
Basic Life Support (4 Clock Hours) (Week #6)