Provide support and assistance under the instruction and supervision of a dentist

Program Objective:

The Dental Assisting program is committed to help students gain new knowledge and acquire professional skills in order to attain a meaningful position in a highly regarded field. By creating an environment in which students are stimulated to learn, grow personally, and to develop decision-making and problem-solving skills necessary to meet the demands of the profession and the community.

Program Content:

The course content includes, but is not limited to:

• Dental office and patient management
• Basic dental laboratory procedures
• Dental and general anatomy
• Dental terminology
• Oral pathology
• Nutrition and preventive dentistry
• Dental instruments and equipment
• Microbiology
• Dental pharmacology and anesthesia
• Chairside assisting and expanded functions
• Maintenance and asepsis of dental operator and instrumentation
• Employability skills
• Leadership and human relations skills: HOSA membership and participation activities
• Ethics and jurisprudence
• Dental materials and preventive dentistry

This program incorporates practical experience in dental clinics and offices. This program is accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission of Dental Accreditation. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the National Board Examination of Dental Assistants as well as obtain the Dental Radiographer Certification for the State of Florida.

Admission Requirements:

• 16 years of age or older and not currently enrolled in any K-12 program

• Occupational Interest

• High School Diploma / GED from an Accredited High School

Completion Requirements:

The entire program is 1230 hours but students can earn a certificate upon completion of the following OCPs:

Satisfactory Completion of all OCPs and passing the Final Test (theory, practical and Clinical) will award student the Expanded Functions Certificate for the State of Florida. Minimum basic-skills grade levels required for awarding a Full Program Completion Certificate are 10th grade in Math, Reading, and Language on the TABE® test. Additional information can be provided by student services. Students are expected to complete program competencies.

Employment Opportunities:

• Private Dental Offices
• Dental Schools
• Hospitals

Employment Requirements:

• License: Expanded Functions Dental Assist (EFDA)

• Requirements vary per state; in-the-job training or postsecondary training in dental assisting are recommended

• Students are strongly encouraged to earn the Dental Assisting National Board Certification.

Salary:

The average wage for this career in Florida is $19.79 hourly or $41,170 annually.

Financial Aid:

Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Applicants must have a high school diploma from an accredited High School, or its equivalent. To apply, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, at www.fafsa.gov. Questions pertaining to this matter should be directed to the Financial Aid Office.

Program Cost:

• In-state residents – $2.56 per hour (Subject to change)

• Out of state resident – $10.25 per hour (Subject to change)

• $15.00 application fee per trimester

• Material Fee: $75.00 for Term 1; $50.00 for Term 2

• Identification fee – $5.00 per trimester

• Liability/Accidental Insurance: $25.00

• Students must purchase books/kits and/or uniforms, if applicable

Program Hours:

• Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.