The curriculum embodies the theory and practice of modern dental assisting and at the same time recognizes the demands of adult education. Professional job preparation gives the individual self-direction, a sense of independence, and marketability to meet life's changing needs. The program includes approximately 1,250 hours of lecture, laboratory, clinical instruction, and clinical practice. The curriculum provides instruction in the theory and practice of chairside assisting, dental x-rays, laboratory techniques, and office practice management. A chairside assistant prepares the patient for examination, sterilizes instruments, and mixes various restorative and impression materials.
Assistants take, develop, duplicate, and mount x-ray films.
The laboratory aspect of dental assisting consists of pouring models, fabricating custom trays, making temporary crowns, and carrying out other basic laboratory procedures. The business assistant is responsible for the computerization of the office, making and confirming appointments, keeping records, working with insurance information, and ordering office and dental supplies. Upon successful completion of this program, the graduate dental assistant is permitted to take a National Board Certification Examination and the State of Indiana Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination. In the state of Indiana, all individuals involved in radiographic exposures must be licensed. Certification is a special recognition given to the dental assistant who has achieved a high level of competence and ability of the dental health team.