Dental Assisting (DAS)

Introduces the profession of dental assisting, history of dentistry, chairside dental assisting, dental equipment, operative dentistry and dental specialties. Emphasizes essential dental assisting skills to prepare the student for clinical setting. Lecture: 2 (30 contact hours). Laboratory: 4 credits (120 contact hours).

Emphasizes leadership, management, clinical decision-making, judgment skills and professional values to facilitate the transition of the student to a professional dental assistant. Provides the opportunity for the application of critical thinking skills in the care of a diverse patient population in the dental setting. Lecture: 1.0 credit (15 contact hours). Lab: 1.0 credit (30 contact hours).

Continues DAS 120 concepts. Introduces student to remaining dental specialties and expanded dental assisting functions. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours). Laboratory: 1 credit (30 contact hours).

Provides the opportunity to discuss clinical experiences and prepare to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). Provides students the opportunity to further develop professional growth plan. Lecture: 1.0 credit hour (15 contact hours).

Introduces dental biofilm and its role in dental disease. Emphasizes the role nutrition plays regarding disease initiation and progression and the methods and preventive agents utilized by the auxiliary to prevent oral disease. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours). Laboratory: 1 credit (30 contact hours).

Apply and practice principles and skills acquired in the areas of chairside assisting, operative procedures, specialty procedures, laboratory procedures, business office procedures and dental radiology. Consists of observation and practice in a dental office setting with emphasis on chairside activities. Practicum: 5 credits (320 contact hours).