This course provides an orientation to the role of the dental assistant in dental practice. The concepts of dentistry and chairside assisting procedures commonly used in a dental office are introduced. Focus is given to infection control practices, the types of procedures performed in all areas of dentistry, the theory behind these procedures, and the instruments and materials associated with each procedure. Clinical and professional skills, as well as ethical standards for patient care, will be discussed and developed in the lecture and through the laboratory and/or clinical simulation component of dental assisting in preparation for the clinical externship experience.
Prerequisites
Semester Offered
Fall
Spring