Program Requirements

First Semester

Course #Course TitleCreditsPrerequisites/Comments

508-101Dental Health Safety1Course begins 4 weeks prior to fall semester | Program studentPrepares dental auxiliary students to respond proactively to dental emergencies, control infection, prevent disease, adhere to OSHA Standards, and safely manage hazardous materials. Students also take patient vital signs and collect patient medical/dental histories. This course is a WTCS aligned course required in both the Dental Hygienist and Dental Assisting programs.

508-103Dental Radiography2Program student; 508-101 or concurrentPrepares dental auxiliary students to operate x-ray units and expose bitewing, periapical, extra oral, and occlusal images. Emphasis is placed on protection against x-ray hazards. Students also process, mount, and evaluate dental images for diagnostic value. In this course, students demonstrate competency on a manikin. In addition, students expose bitewing and periapical images on patients in the clinical portion of their program. This course also provides the background in radiographic theory required for students to make informed decisions and adjustments.

508-113Dental Materials2Program student; 508-101 or concurrentPrepares dental auxiliary students to handle and prepare dental materials such as liners, bases, cements, amalgam, resin restorative materials, gypsum products, and impression materials. They also learn to take alginate impressions on peers and clean removable appliances. This course is aligned to serve students in the Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant programs.

508-302Dental Chairside5Program student; 508-101 or concurrent; Corequisite: 508-103, 508-113, 508-304, 508-306, 508-307Prepares dental assistant students to chart oral cavity structures, dental pathology, and restorations and to assist a dentist with basic dental procedures including examinations, pain control, amalgam restoration, and cosmetic restoration. Students will also develop the ability to educate patients about preventive dentistry, brushing and flossing techniques, and dental procedures, using lay terminology. Throughout the course, students will apply decoding strategies to the correct use and interpretation of dental terminology.

508-304Dental & General Anatomy2Program student; 508-101 or concurrentPrepares dental assistant students to apply fundamentals of general and dental anatomy to informed decision-making and to professional communication with colleagues and patients.

508-306Dental Assistant Clinical32nd 8 Weeks | Program student; 508-101 or concurrent; Corequisite: 508-103, 508-113, 508-302, 508-304, 508-307Students apply skills developed in Dental and General Anatomy, Dental Health Safety, Dental Chairside, Dental Materials, Dental Radiography, and Professionalism in a clinical setting with patients. Emphasizes integration of core abilities and basic occupational skills.

508-307Dental Assistant Professional1Program student; 508-101 or concurrent; Corequisite: 508-103, 508-113, 508-302, 508-304, 508-306Prepares dental assistant students for professional success in a dental practice or another dental health care environment. Students develop professional appearance and image. More importantly, they learn to work within ethical guidelines and legal frameworks. In preparation for entering the work force, dental assistants customize or develop their portfolios and lay out an ongoing professional development plan.

TOTAL CREDITS:16