The following subjects are covered in depth from both a class lecture standpoint and practical clinical experience. The morning lecture is followed by an afternoon of clinical “hands-on” training in our state-of-the-art practicing dental office.

[tab name=”Week 1″]

WEEK 1: Dental Theory and Terminology

A. Dental and oral anatomy, tooth identification and numbering systems

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

Impressions and Model Trimming

A. Impression materials and practice in their uses: alginates, poly vinyl siloxane

B. Wax bites, counter impressions

C. Model pouring and trimming[/tab] [tab name=”Week 2″]

WEEK 2: Radiology

A. X-ray theory and technique, use of Rinn holders and other methods

B. Radiology terminology

C. Intraoral, bitewing, panoramic, and endodontic exposure methods

D. Developing x-rays using the automatic processor and disposing techniques

E. Darkroom care and maintenance

F. Digital x-ray techniques using a ScanX and film plate imaging processing system

G. X-ray identification, interpretation, safety and precautions

H. Cumulating effects of Radiation

I. Operator and patient protection techniques

J. Radiographic pathology

K. Physics of Radiation

L. Infection control in dental radiology

M. UT State X-ray Certification Test Review[/tab] [tab name=”Week 3″]

WEEK 3:State Radiology Examination

Four-Handed Dental Assisting

A. Instrument transfer techniques, chair-side assisting and patient suctioning

B. Chair-side doctor-patient-assistant positioning

C. Tub and tray systems of instruments and materials

D. Familiarity and use of instruments and materials in assisting for dental specialties examined in future weeks.

E. Moisture control using cotton rolls and dental dam setups.

F. Administration of Anesthetic; syringe loading, passing, and unloading.

G. Nitrous Oxide Administration and regulations.

Sterilization Techniques

A. Sterilization theory and terminology, autoclave operation

B. Instrument and equipment sterilization/disinfection

C. Treatment room disinfection and asepsis techniques

D. Handpiece care and maintenance[/tab] [tab name=”Week 4″]

WEEK 4: Preventative Dentistry

A. Oral hygiene and Health Instruction

B. Prophylaxis cleaning procedure and practice.

C. Flouride application, rules, and uses.

D. Dental Sealants; application and procedure.

E. Tooth Whitening; different materials and methods.[/tab] [tab name=”Week 5″]

WEEK 5: Restorative Dentistry

A. Instruments, Materials, and Procedure steps for Amalgam fillings.

B. Instruments, Materials and Procedure steps for Composite fillings.

C. Tofflemire and Matrix Bands; uses, application, and assembly.

Cements and Liners

A. Introduction to common cements and liners used in dentistry

B. Practice mixing cements and liners[/tab] [tab name=”Week 6″]

WEEK 6: Midterm Examination

Oral Surgery

A. Instruments, materials, and procedures.

B. Introduction to Oral Surgery practices

C. Removal of Impacted Third-Molar Procedure

Dental Implants

A. Tooth replacement options and procedures.

B. Dental implant steps, placement, and guidelines

Periodontics

A. Diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease.

B. Periodontal disease and Dental Hygienist procedures

C. Procedures, materials, and instruments in treating and preventing Periodontal disease.[/tab] [tab name=”Week 7″]

WEEK 7: Crown and Bridge

A. Instruments, Materials, and Procedure steps for dental crowns.

B. Types of dental crowns and crown materials

C. Crown and bridge Triple-tray impressions and materials.

D. Temporary acrylic crown fabrication and temporary cementation.

E. Laboratory slips and porcelain shade guides.

F. Inlay and Onlay restorations.

G. Cord packing and tissue retraction[/tab] [tab name=”Week 8″]

WEEK 8: Endodontics

A. Instruments, materials, and procedure steps.

B. Root Canal Therapy procedure

C. Apicoectomy procedure

D. Diagnosis and causes of irreversible pulpitis.

Job Interview and Internship Assistance

A. Proper image, dress, and how to prepare for the job interview

B. Difficult questions you may face and how to answer them

C. Rules for interviews

D. What to expect

E. Current listing of Offices hiring

F. Resume Assistance[/tab] [tab name=”Week 9″]

WEEK 9: Orthodontics

A. Class types and treatment options

B. Dental appliances, orthodontic appliances, space maintainers, and tooth retention.

C. Instruments and materials.

D. Traditional Braces and Clear Aligner Technology

E. Orthodontic records and diagnostic photos[/tab] [tab name=”Week 10″]

WEEK 10: Pediatric Dentistry

A. Differences in treating children versus adults.

B. Pediatric radiology, terminology, and procedures.

C. Dental Assistant role and required skills in pediatric offices.

Dental Charting and Records

A. Dentrix Computer Systems.

B. Patient charting, existing conditions, specialist referrals, and treatment planning.

C. Procedure Charting and Clinical Notes.[/tab] [tab name=”Week 11″]

WEEK 11; Office Administration

A. Phone techniques and appointment book scheduling

B. Billing accounts receivable and accounts payable; collections

C. Filing insurance claims and pre-treatment estimates

D. Insurance terminology

E. Payment agreements and financial arrangements[/tab] [tab name=”Week 12″]

WEEK 12: Final Examination

CPR Certification

Graduation

[/tab] [end_tabset]

>> Learn More About Why Dental Assisting is a Great Career

>> Dental Assisting Enrollment Requirements

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