DENTAL ASSISTANTS PERFORM A VARIETY OF SERVICES FROM OFFICE AND LABORATORY DUTIES TO WORKING CHAIRSIDE ASSISTING DENTISTS AS THEY EXAMINE AND TREAT PATIENTS.

OVERVIEW

Students participating in this trade learn to take dental radiographs, maintain dental equipment, performing coronal polishing and assisting the dentist in patient treatment. Other duties include, keeping accurate dental records, organizing the lab and taking care of patients.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping and handling of materials. Listening and understanding information and ideas presented through spoken words.

SKILLS

Students in Dental Assistant are trained in the following subject areas:

• Setting up equipment and preparing patients for treatment

• Sterilizing instruments, disinfecting treatment rooms and setting up instrument trays, preparing materials, and assisting the dentist during dental procedures

• Exposing dental diagnostic X-rays

• Collecting and recording treatment information and clinical data in patient records

• Educating patients on how to maintain their dental health

CAREER OPTIONS

Most program graduates work directly with dentists in their dental offices. Dental assistants typically work full time and help with patient care and management of the dental office. Some graduates may go on to work in dental laboratories as well.

REQUIREMENTS

Before entering the program, students must have:

• Strong listening, communication, and organizational skills

• Complete all required activity in the Career Preparation Period, including Career Exploration and Career Success/Workplace Skills.

• Meet basic academic requirements in math and reading.

• Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

• The ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide quickly and correctly.

To complete a student must:

• Have completed High School Diploma or GED.

• Attained a Driver License.

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification

• For trade completion and employment purposes, student must pass a criminal background check.

LENGTH OF PROGRAM

Students attend classes Monday through Friday. On average students can complete the Dental Assisting program within 9 to 14 months depending on the student's academic levels (math & reading and High School Diploma/GED status).

CREDENTIALS

As a Job Corps student, you will have the opportunity to earn credentials in your training area that may lead to greater employment opportunities, higher wages, and promotions.

EXPECTATIONS

While on the job, you will be expected to display the following traits at all times:

• Attention to detail

• Concern for others

• Cooperation

• Dependability

• Integrity

DENTAL ASSISTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW

$41K NATIONAL AVERAGE EARNING POTENTIAL FOR THIS CAREER

Average Entry Wage: $18.00 to $20.00 per hour.