Universal Medical College's Dental Assistant program provides its graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to qualify for an entry-level position as a Dental Assistant. Graduates may also secure employment in other areas of dentistry, such as Oral Surgery, Pediatrics, Orthodontics, and as a Back Office Assistant, and may work for public health facilities, hospital dental departments, correctional facilities, schools/universities, clinics, and dental suppliers. Emphasis is placed on the Registered Dental Assistant practical and written examinations throughout the student’s coursework.

Students are encouraged to sit for these exams upon successful completion of the program.

The program prepares students for Coronal Polish Certification*, Pit and Fissure Certification* and the requirements necessary to earn a California Radiation Safety Certificate (limited to dental x-ray).

Students practice techniques and procedures in a spacious and modern dental laboratory to gain proficiency in dental procedures and techniques. In addition, equipment, materials, and instruments comparable to those used in an actual dental facility are used in our classrooms.

The program is divided into eight modules and externship, and students must complete all eight modules. The student may begin with any module without pre-requisite of another module.

Upon successful completion of all eight modules, the student must complete a 160-hour externship.

Successful completion of the Dental Assisting program is acknowledged by the awarding of a diploma.

*The Coronal Polish Certificate and Pit and Fissure Certification are awarded by the State of

California upon successful completion of the RDA exams and completion of a state approved course.

Students must successfully complete coronal polish, pit and fissure and radiation safety written and practical examinations with a minimum score of 75 percent.

Module Descriptions

DA 100 – Fundamentals of Dental Assisting

This course is designed to introduce the student to the dental health team, ethics and jurisprudence, and expected levels of professionalism will also be addressed. The anatomy and physiology of the head and neck as it relates to the practice of dentistry is included. Use and care of dental equipment and the operatory are emphasized. This course will also introduce the student to chart dental caries and restorations on both geometrical and anatomical charts.

DA 200 – Science of Dentistry

This course is designed to introduce the student to the basic concepts and principles of microbiology as it pertains to dentistry. Special emphasis will be placed on the proper methods and ramifications of infection control issues including OSHA regulations and the disease transmission process. Periodontics theory and practice will be addressed.

DA 300 – Restorative Dentistry/Pharmacology

This course is designed to introduce the student to various materials and instrumentation. The student will be exposed to the use and care of the Caries Detection Device. Pharmacology and drugs as they relate to dentistry will also be discussed.

DA 400 – Laboratory Procedures/Prosthodontics

This course will address cultural differences and issues of diversity in the workplace. Students will study concepts related to cultural values and language diversity, as well as analyze programs and procedures for meeting the needs of diverse populations. Students will leave this course with an understanding of the various facets of multiculturalism, diversity issues, and various methods of preparing healthcare personnel to address diversity issues. The student will be exposed to and practice with a variety of impression materials as well as producing primary impressions. Theory and practice of permanent and removable prosthodontics will also be presented.

DA 500 – Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics

This course emphasizes both the preventive and restorative techniques in pediatric/operative dentistry. Theory and practice in orthodontics will be introduced.

DA 600 – CPR/Preventive Dentistry

This course is designed to give the student exposure to the principles and practices of preventing and controlling dental disease with emphasis on nutrition and plaque control. The student will receive basic training in standard first aid and in recognizing and dealing with medical emergencies. Exposure to sealant materials in the field of preventive dentistry will also be discussed.

DA 700 – Endodontics/Radiography

Basic principles of dental radiology including theory and techniques will be presented. Emphasis will be placed on operation of the x-ray equipment, safety practices, mounting, and evaluation of dental films. Basic principles of head and neck anatomy as well as radiographic anatomical landmarks will be covered. Once the student has fulfilled the necessary program requirements, she/he will receive a state certificate to perform x-rays in the dental office. The specialty of Endodontics will be explored.

DA 800 – Oral Surgery/Anesthetics

This course is designed to introduce the student to surgical procedures performed in dentistry. The student will also be exposed to the various methods and techniques of anesthesia.

Externship

An externship consists of 160 hours of work experience in the field at the conclusion of the student's classroom instruction. The externship enables students the opportunity to demonstrate and reinforce the knowledge and skills presented and practiced throughout the training program. Externs work under the direct supervision of qualified personnel at the externship site and under general supervision of the college staff. Externs are evaluated by supervisory personnel and the evaluations are placed in the student’s permanent record. Dental students must complete their externship training to fulfill graduation requirements.

Certified Nurse Assistant (CAN) /HOME Health Aide HHA  “Pending Approval”