Dental Assisting
Overview
The Dental Assisting program is a full-time day program to which students are admitted in August of each year. The curriculum is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and leads to an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Assisting. After successful completion of the curriculum the student is eligible to take the National Board Examination and upon passing becomes a Certified Dental Assistant. This evidence of competence is recognized throughout the United States. In addition, graduates will be able to apply for and take the Dental Board of California examination for state licensure as Registered Dental Assistants.
The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education.
To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:
- Completion of DAST 100 – Introduction to Dental Assisting with a grade of “C” or better
- Completion must take place before the fall program start date (August of each year). DAST 100 is currently offered in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.
The pass rate for the Registered Dental Assistant written exam for 2022 was 80%.
The Dental Assisting curriculum is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and leads to an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Assisting. After successful completion of the curriculum, the student is eligible to take the National Board Examination and upon passing becomes a Certified Dental Assistant. This program prepares the student for employment as a dental assistant. The dental assistant works with the dentist in providing patient treatment, including restorations, x-rays, and preventive services. Employment opportunities are excellent, not only in private dental offices, but also in public and private hospitals, clinics and laboratories, dental schools, dental supply houses, and in the armed forces.
Sample salary, entry to mid-level: $35,900 to $49,490
In addition to normal student expenses (for textbooks, etc.), the Dental Assisting Program requires an expenditure of approximately $3,000 to $4,000 during the one-year program for uniforms and clinic supplies. This cost is an estimate only; exact costs may vary.
Applicants are encouraged to check with the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance before entering the program if this creates a hardship.
Program Maps
A.A./A.S. Degrees
Certificates
- Dean Paulette Lopez
- Program Coordinator Tammie Lane
- Program Details Dental Assisting Program Details
- Email scc-healthoccupations@scc.losrios.edu
Associate Degree
A.S. in Dental Assisting
The Dental Assisting program is a full-time day program to which students are admitted in August of each year. The curriculum is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and leads to an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Assisting. After successful completion of the curriculum the student is eligible to take the National Board Examination and upon passing becomes a Certified Dental Assistant. This evidence of competence is recognized throughout the United States. In addition, graduates will be able to apply for and take the Dental Board of California examination for state licensure as Registered Dental Assistants. In addition to normal student expenses (for textbooks, etc.), the Dental Assisting Program requires an expenditure of approximately $2,000.00 during the one-year program for uniforms and special supplies. Applicants are encouraged to check with the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance before entering the program if this creates a hardship.
The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60611.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2025
Degree Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| DAST 101 | Biodental Science | 2.5 |
| DAST 102 | Chairside Assisting | 6 |
| DAST 103 | Patient Assessment | 2.5 |
| DAST 104 | Dental Anatomy and Morphology | 3 |
| DAST 107 | Dental Radiology | 2.5 |
| DAST 111 | Dental Patient Education | 1 |
| DAST 112 | Registered Dental Assistant Advanced Duties | 3 |
| DAST 113 | Advanced Patient Assessment and Dental Imaging | 2 |
| DAST 115 | Registered Dental Assistant Advanced Duty Certifications | 2 |
| DAST 116 | Practice Management for the Dental Assistant | 2 |
| DAST 118 | Board Preparation | 2 |
| DAST 119 | Clinical Experience I | 3 |
| DAST 129 | Clinical Experience II | 31 |
| Total Units: | 34.5 |
1Offered only in summer session
The Dental Assisting Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.
Enrollment Eligibility
To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:
- Successful completion of DAST100 with a grade of "C" or better.
Enrollment Process
Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:
- Complete the online application (which includes uploading proof of eligibility) between January 1 and April 1 to apply for the fall semester program start.
- All eligible candidates will be entered into a random selection pool.
- The first 36 eligible applications will be selected for the program; all others are alternates and will be notified if/when seats become available.
- Students accepted for enrollment in the Dental Assisting Program will be required to provide documentation of: a) capability to perform essential job-related functions of a dental assistant; b) completed physical examination and immunizations; c) TB test; d) current professional level CPR certification; and e) completion of criminal background check and an 8-panel drug screen test.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- incorporate and apply professional, ethical, legal, and regulatory concepts to oral health care services, community projects, and professional activities.
- integrate and apply health literacy and culturally competent communication skills to oral health care services, academic endeavors, community projects, and professional activities.
- apply critical thinking and self-assessment skills to enhance learning, research, patient care, and professional growth.
- adapt knowledge of the practice of dentistry to the demonstration of clinical dental assisting skills.
- exhibit knowledge necessary for successful completion of the California Registered Dental Assistant's Examination and the National Certified Dental Assistant's Examination.
Career Information
This program prepares the student for employment as a dental assistant. The dental assistant works with the dentist in providing patient treatment, including restorations, x-rays, and preventive services. Employment opportunities are excellent, not only in private dental offices, but also in public and private hospitals, clinics and laboratories, dental schools, dental supply houses, and in the armed forces.
Certificate of Achievement
Dental Assisting Certificate
The Dental Assisting program is a full-time day program to which students are admitted in August of each year. The curriculum is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and leads to a Certificate of Achievement in Dental Assisting. After successful completion of the curriculum the student is eligible to take the National Board Examination and upon passing becomes a Certified Dental Assistant. This evidence of competence is recognized throughout the United States. In addition, graduates will be able to apply for and take the Dental Board of California examination for state licensure as Registered Dental Assistants. In addition to normal student expenses (for textbooks, etc.), the Dental Assisting Program requires an expenditure of approximately $2,000.00 during the one-year program for uniforms and special supplies. Applicants are encouraged to check with the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance before entering the program if this creates a hardship.
The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60611.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2025
Certificate Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| DAST 101 | Biodental Science | 2.5 |
| DAST 102 | Chairside Assisting | 6 |
| DAST 103 | Patient Assessment | 2.5 |
| DAST 104 | Dental Anatomy and Morphology | 3 |
| DAST 107 | Dental Radiology | 2.5 |
| DAST 111 | Dental Patient Education | 1 |
| DAST 112 | Registered Dental Assistant Advanced Duties | 3 |
| DAST 113 | Advanced Patient Assessment and Dental Imaging | 2 |
| DAST 115 | Registered Dental Assistant Advanced Duty Certifications | 2 |
| DAST 116 | Practice Management for the Dental Assistant | 2 |
| DAST 118 | Board Preparation | 2 |
| DAST 119 | Clinical Experience I | 3 |
| DAST 129 | Clinical Experience II | 31 |
| Total Units: | 34.5 |
1Offered only in summer session
Enrollment Eligibility
To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:
- Successful completion of DAST100 with a grade of "C" or better.
Enrollment Process
Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:
- Complete the online application (which includes uploading proof of eligibility) between January 1 and April 1 to apply for the fall semester program start.
- All eligible candidates will be entered into a random selection pool.
- The first 36 eligible applications will be selected for the program; all others are alternates and will be notified if/when seats become available.
- Students accepted for enrollment in the Dental Assisting Program will be required to provide documentation of: a) capability to perform essential job-related functions of a dental assistant; b) completed physical examination and immunizations; c) TB test; d) current professional level CPR certification; and e) completion of criminal background check and an 8-panel drug screen test.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- incorporate and apply professional, ethical, legal, and regulatory concepts to oral health care services, community projects, and professional activities.
- integrate and apply health literacy and culturally competent communication skills to oral health care services, academic endeavors, community projects, and professional activities.
- apply critical thinking and self-assessment skills to enhance learning, research, patient care, and professional growth.
- adapt knowledge of the practice of dentistry to the demonstration of clinical dental assisting skills.
- exhibit knowledge necessary for successful completion of the California Registered Dental Assistant's Examination and the National Certified Dental Assistant's Examination.
Career Information
This program prepares the student for employment as a dental assistant. The dental assistant works with the dentist in providing patient treatment, including restorations, x-rays, and preventive services. Employment opportunities are excellent, not only in private dental offices, but also in public and private hospitals, clinics and laboratories, dental schools, dental supply houses, educational programs, and the armed forces.
Dental Assisting (DAST) Courses
DAST 100 Introduction to Dental Assisting
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course is an introduction to the practice of dental assisting. Topics include dental terminology, infection control, study strategies, and the expectations and concerns of the allied dental health professional.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- identify various licensed and non-licensed personnel commonly employed in dental offices in California.
- determine which duties can be performed by each member of the dental team.
- identify the "Essential Functions" required of allied dental health professionals.
- explain the legal duties of the licensed and non-licensed allied dental health professionals in California.
- utilize new study strategies, such as time-management skills, test-taking strategies, and note-taking skills that may be useful for success in the dental assisting program.
- demonstrate basic dental terminology, such as tooth numbering and landmarks.
- identify potential hazards associated with the allied dental health profession as they relate to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards and the treatment of all individuals including those with infectious diseases.
DAST 101 Biodental Science
- Units:2.5
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
Biodental Science includes microbiology and asepsis, disease prevention, infection control regulations, occupational safety procedures, sterilization, and hazardous materials in the dental practice.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- identify various infectious diseases and their relationship to patient safety and occupational risk.
- analyze the need for operatory barriers and/or surface disinfection and employ acceptable techniques during various patient treatment situations.
- explain the need for immunization against infectious diseases, such as hepatitis B.
- demonstrate techniques to prevent cross-contamination and disease transmission.
- demonstrate sterilization procedures using appropriate monitoring systems.
- maintain aseptic conditions during various patient treatment procedures.
- follow the standards and guidelines of occupational safety for dental office personnel.
- incorporate all safety measures when using chemical and physical hazards.
- maintain and document a quality assurance (quality improvement) program for infection control and safety.
DAST 102 Chairside Assisting
- Units:6
- Hours:72 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course is an introduction to basic dental assisting duties and the principles of four-handed dentistry. Basic dental materials and instrumentation are major components of this course.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- identify instruments, materials, and techniques used in all aspects of dentistry.
- arrange appropriate tray set-ups.
- demonstrate the ability to properly exchange instruments from prepared tray set-ups to dental operator.
- list, describe, define, and recognize properties and procedures that affect the manipulation, placement, and effectiveness of dental materials.
- explain the effects the oral environment may have on dental materials, as well as the effect dental materials may have on the oral environment.
- demonstrate the ability to mix dental materials at chairside to proper consistency in a reasonable length of time.
- describe and demonstrate the appropriate methods for maintenance of dental operatories and equipment including appropriate infection control measures.
- utilize, care for, and maintain dental equipment safely.
- describe and demonstrate appropriate methods for construction of a bleaching tray.
- apply principles of topical and local anesthesia during chairside procedures.
- apply and adapt various isolation devices.
- demonstrate the ability to take accurate impressions and pour and trim models.
- demonstrate the ability to place intra-oral matrices.
- accurately acquire patient vital signs while demonstrating appropriate and compassionate communication with patients.
- discuss various basic oral surgery and endodontic procedures including the requisite supplies, materials, and techniques.
DAST 103 Patient Assessment
- Units:2.5
- Hours:45 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course is an introduction to patient assessment, including communication skills, medical history assessment, pharmacology, dental history assessment, vital signs, and medical emergencies. An emphasis is placed on the relationship between systemic conditions and prescriptive medications and their effects on the oral cavity and subsequent dental treatment.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain the necessity for, and the role of, effective communication in the provision of quality dental care.
- discuss techniques that promote effective communication.
- describe how various systemic conditions, diseases, and medications can impact dental care.
- demonstrate skills in conducting online research on medical conditions, diseases, and medications as they relate to dentistry.
- obtain and review a complete and thorough medical and dental history.
- recognize physiological conditions that have implications in planning dental treatment.
- discuss the influence of demographic and economic factors on health and dental care.
- describe the basic components of pharmacology, drug interactions, and routes of drug administration.
- summarize the importance of acquiring each of the four vital signs on every patient.
- illustrate knowledge of the various factors that influence vital signs.
- describe the preventive measures taken for medical emergencies that commonly occur during dental treatment.
- identify signs and symptoms of medical emergencies common in the dental office.
- determine proper responses to specific medical emergencies common in a dental office.
DAST 104 Dental Anatomy and Morphology
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
The focus of this course is dental anatomy and morphology including the form, function, and location of the hard and soft structures of the mouth. In addition, the course covers material related to general physiology, oral embryology and histology, and physiology of the head and neck as these relate to the practice of dentistry.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- locate and explain the purpose, components, and functions of the 10 systems of the human body.
- identify and describe normal anatomical structures of the oral cavity.
- identify the teeth and their components, formation, and eruption patterns.
- identify the basic structures of the head and neck region.
- describe the three periods of prenatal development and discuss prenatal influences on dental development.
- discuss the genetic and environmental factors that can affect dental development.
- chart cavity classifications, existing restorations, and classifications of occlusion.
- recite the tissues of the tooth and the periodontium.
- locate the basic components of the cardiovascular system.
DAST 107 Dental Radiology
- Units:2.5
- Hours:27 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Acceptance into the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course covers the principles of dental radiology. Topics include theory and techniques, operation of the x-ray machine, biological effects, safety practices, and the practical application of utilizing appropriate infection control while exposing, processing, mounting, and evaluating intraoral dental films.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate acceptable practices of health and safety, including infection control, in relation to exposing and processing radiographs.
- describe the production of dental x-rays, the components of dental radiology equipment, film, and processing.
- relate basic principles of radiographic theory to the production of diagnostically acceptable radiographs.
- employ appropriate methods for intra-oral radiography and be capable of modifying techniques to adjust to specific patient needs.
- identify radiographic techniques and processing errors and be able to remediate these errors with faculty or peer collaboration.
- interpret basic caries, periodontal and periapical disease processes on intra-oral and panoramic dental radiographs with beginning level competence.
- identify anatomical landmarks and visible dental materials radiographically.
- provide education to the patient regarding the need, value, and benefit/risk rationale for dental radiographs.
- explain various radiographic quality control programs.
- summarize biological effects of radiation and safety techniques for both patient and operator.
- identify the state and federal agencies that regulate operator licensure, equipment safety, and exposure guidelines for dental radiology.
DAST 111 Dental Patient Education
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:DAST 101, 102, 103, 104, 107, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
The focus of this course is the study of nutrition from a whole body concept and its interrelated effects on the oral environment. Students will integrate these concepts with preventive dentistry concepts and the role of the dental assistant in community and public health situations.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- summarize the philosophy of preventive dentistry and the role a dental assistant plays in providing preventive dental services in the office and to the community.
- describe plaque, its formation, pattern of accumulation, and role in caries and periodontal disease.
- compile various oral hygiene aids and explain their use relative to different patient needs.
- design a personalized plaque control program for patients.
- identify the role of fluorides in preventive dentistry, the types of fluorides available, and appropriate recommendations for usage.
- review the theories involved in patient motivation and be able to utilize appropriate techniques while providing plaque control instruction and nutritional evaluation.
- explain the role of carbohydrates in the development of dental caries and the role of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals in the diet and their possible effects on oral health.
- identify oral diseases and conditions associated with tobacco use.
- present strategies to assist dental patients in their tobacco cessation efforts.
- detect age-related physiological changes and their impact on oral health care.
- describe key health promotion and disease prevention activities appropriate for older people.
DAST 112 Registered Dental Assistant Advanced Duties
- Units:3
- Hours:27 hours LEC; 81 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DAST 101, 102, 103, 104, 107, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course includes the practical application of advanced dental assisting duties as defined by the Dental Board of California.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- fabricate, trim, polish, and cement indirect provisional restorations.
- place and adjust direct provisional restorations.
- explain the difference between phase 1 and phase 2 orthodontics and provide examples for best practice in each phase.
- place and remove ligature ties and archwires.
- explain the purpose of pit and fissure sealants.
- identify the purpose of a coronal polish and list the steps involved in this procedure.
- categorize and differentiate among various stains and determine their ability to be removed.
- review various methods of caries detection and compare the advantage and disadvantages of each.
- identify and compare the chemical agents used for tooth whitening.
- compare professional whitening systems with at-home whitening systems.
- discuss various oral surgery and endodontic procedures including the requisite supplies, materials, and techniques.
- demonstrate advanced techniques for various oral surgery and endodontic procedures including the requisite supplies, materials, and techniques.
- place and remove periodontal dressings.
DAST 113 Advanced Patient Assessment and Dental Imaging
- Units:2
- Hours:27 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DAST 101, 102, 103, 104, 107, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course builds on the principles of DAST 103 Patient Assessment. Topics of this course include medical and dental history assessment, treatment planning, head and neck examination, intra-oral inspection of hard and soft tissues, gingival assessment, oral pathology, intra-oral and extra-oral imaging, full mouth radiographs, and case presentation.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- evaluate contraindications and complications for dental care presented by various medical and dental conditions/diseases and prescription medications.
- recognize physiological conditions that have implications in planning dental treatment.
- identify various pathological conditions of the oral cavity.
- discuss HIV/AIDS and its oral manifestations, including various lesions associated with the disease.
- list and describe the key components of the head and neck examination.
- conduct online research on medical conditions/diseases and medications as they relate to dentistry.
- expose, process, and evaluate full-mouth radiographic series.
- capture diagnostic intra-oral and extra-oral images.
- accurately perform an intra-oral inspection of hard and soft tissue, with emphasis on gingival health assessment and identification of potential pathological conditions.
- perform a case presentation including health history assessment, vital signs, imaging (including intra-oral and extra-oral photographs and radiographs), head and neck examination, and gingival description.
DAST 115 Registered Dental Assistant Advanced Duty Certifications
- Units:2
- Hours:108 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DAST 101, 102, 103, 104, 107, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course provides instruction and practice in advanced dental assisting duties including coronal polish, application of pit and fissure sealants, patient assessment, teeth whitening, and caries detection.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- review patient dental and medical histories and determine the appropriate treatment protocol regarding coronal polish, fluoride treatments, pit and fissure sealants, and in-office tooth whitening.
- categorize and differentiate between various stains and determine their ability to be removed.
- demonstrate proper coronal polishing techniques.
- exhibit effective utilization of caries detection devices and analyze the acquired data.
- demonstrate clinically effective pit and fissure sealant placement.
- perform in-office tooth whitening techniques to clinical competence.
- demonstrate proper infection control techniques throughout all clinical procedures.
- perform an intra-oral and extra-oral examination including gingival health assessment.
- evaluate the effectiveness and clinical competence of procedures performed in this course.
DAST 116 Practice Management for the Dental Assistant
- Units:2
- Hours:36 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:DAST 101, 102, 103, 104, 107, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course encompasses the principles of dental office management including: administrative procedures, record keeping, scheduling, dental histories, financial arrangements, bookkeeping, insurance procedures, patient communication, patient psychology, and job-finding skills. This course also includes a thorough review of all dental assisting duties allowed by the Dental Board of California and the application process for both the Registered Dental Assistant Exam and the Certified Assistant Exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- define ethical and legal considerations in the practice of dentistry.
- compare various communication modes for both patient and inter-office communications.
- schedule patients and manage appointment book control.
- make financial arrangements for services rendered.
- complete the procedures for third-party reimbursement.
- demonstrate the ability to keep and balance accounts receivable records.
- create a personal portfolio to include a resume, cover letter, list of references, and other pertinent documents in preparation for job interviews.
- list categories of potential employment opportunities and compare the advantages and disadvantages of each.
- demonstrate appropriate interview skills in a typical dental office job interview.
DAST 118 Board Preparation
- Units:2
- Hours:36 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:DAST 111, 112, 113, 115, 116, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course is the culmination of all previous dental assisting courses and focuses on the specific requirements and components of both the state and national dental assisting board exams. At the completion of this course, students should be well-prepared to take the Registered Dental Assisting examination of the Dental Board of California, as well as the Certified Dental Assistant examination of the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate preparation for the Registered Dental Assisting written exam.
- demonstrate preparation for the Certified Dental Assistant exam.
DAST 119 Clinical Experience I
- Units:3
- Hours:162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DAST 101, 102, 103, 104, and 107 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course involves performance of dental assisting duties in an assigned dental office.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate the characteristics of a professional dental assistant such as a positive attitude, initiative, good attendance and punctuality, cooperation, teamwork, and effective communication with patients.
- assist with various diagnostic procedures including review of medical and dental histories, intra- and extra-oral examinations, and dental charting.
- accurately take and record vital signs and preliminary impressions.
- expose, process, and mount diagnostic radiographs.
- pour and trim diagnostic models and fabricate bleaching trays.
- follow proper infection control procedures during operatory set-up and tear-down, patient treatment procedures, and instrument processing.
- competently prepare and dismiss patient, accurately set up trays, correctly identify and manipulate various dental materials, and precisely document patient treatment.
DAST 129 Clinical Experience II
- Units:3
- Hours:162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DAST 111, 112, 113, 115, 116, 118, and 119 with grades of "C" or better
- Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This course involves performance of basic dental assisting duties as well as expanded duties in an assigned dental office.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- perform basic and advanced chairside assisting procedures using four-handed techniques.
- maintain the dental operatory including disease transmission control procedures, sterilization of instruments, and equipment care.
- manage the care of the dental patient including dental records.
- assemble the necessary armamentarium for general and specialty dental procedures and demonstrate knowledge of the step-by-step procedures for each procedure.
- perform California RDA duties to clinical competency as permitted by each individual dental office.
- apply skills in the basic business office procedure in a dental practice.
- display the characteristics of responsibility, dependability, cooperation, and professionalism necessary for a dental assistant.
DAST 295 Independent Studies in Dental Assisting
- Units:1 - 3
- Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Student must be enrolled in the Dental Assisting program.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This is a course for those dental assisting students requesting special projects related to their dental assisting education.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- perform the task(s) determined by the staff and student as they relate to the specific project.
DAST 299 Experimental Offering in Dental Assisting
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This is the experimental courses description.
Faculty
Programs and Majors
Apply to the Program
SCC Dental Clinic
Commission on Dental Accreditation
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611
(800) 621-8099
Health and Health Professions
This program is part of the Health and Health Professions meta major.