Dental assistant courses are available fully
online, or in hybrid format at community or technical colleges. Although
there are no formal educational requirements to become a dental
assistant, graduation from an accredited training program may lead to
improved job prospects and skills. Most states require licensing or
registration for advanced dental assistant job duties, such as
radiological procedures.
Dental assistants work with dentist to improve patient care and
prepare for procedures, among other duties. State accredited online
dental assistant training programs and courses are available for
continuing education credits, certification and recertification. The
Dental Assisting
National Board (DANB) offers certification for dental assistants,
recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). This certification
fulfills most state educational requirements for licensure and
registration. After completion, students can expect to find work as
dental assistants, dental hygienists or dental office managers.
Course Requirements
Students require a computer with Internet-access and a media player. A
Web camera may be required for examinations and testing. E-mail and
bulletin boards are frequently used for communication between students
and instructors. Students may need to purchase tools and supplies
commonly used by a dental assistant, such as safety glasses and gloves,
if not included with the course. Hybrid programs may include a lab or
exam component, and take place in a dental office setting.
List of Online Courses
Dental Terminology and Anatomy Course
This course familiarizes students with terminology used in a dental
office, and teaches the anatomy of the mouth, neck and throat. Students
discuss tooth structure, types of teeth and tooth surfaces. Accurate
data recording through the use of charts is another focus of this
course.
Dental Laws and Ethics Course
Students taking this course learn about specific laws and ethical
concerns pertaining to dentistry. The Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a topic of discussion. Students learn why
the protection of patient records, security and privacy is of utmost
importance.
Infection Control and Safety Course
Infection control courses focus on Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) regulations, infection control procedures and
sterilization techniques. Specific instruments used in a dental office,
such as dental burs, and their safe use are discussed. The course also
covers proper dental office attire and protective equipment. This course
may require travel to a dental office setting for practical exposure
and application.
Dental Assisting Course
This course teaches students how to care for patients, assist
dentists and handle emergency situations. Tray and instrument setup,
sedation and anesthesia and chair-side assistance are all topics
discussed in this course. Dental pharmacology is discussed to
familiarize students with drugs commonly administered for dental office
procedures.
Radiology Course
In this advanced dental assisting course, students examine radiation
safety, protection and equipment. Students learn how to accurately and
safely perform diagnostic X-rays.
Dental Materials Course
Dental materials examined in this class include cements, bases,
liners and bonding agents commonly used during dental procedures.
Students study restorative materials and mixing techniques. Cavity
preparation and impression-making are also discussed. This course may
require a lab component.
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