This module will cover the strategies that are part of a good prevention plan, demonstrate tooth brushing techniques, evaluate oral self-care using disclosing agents and biofilm indices. Students will learn the role of carbohydrates in the diet and its effects on the teeth and discuss the dental assistant’s role in nutrition. Students will learn the design of the dental office, experience the purpose of each area, the appearance and function of the equipment, and the routine to open and close the dental office. This module also covers standardized procedures, preparation of tray setups, the names, functions, and parts of the hand instruments, the compare cutting, surgical, vulcanite, finishing burs, and the care of burs, abrasive rotary instruments, and polishing instruments. Students will learn how to demonstrate proper positioning for operator, assistant, and patient during four-handed dentistry, demonstrate the types of instrument grasps and transfer of instruments for a procedure. They will learn the importance of effective moisture control in clinical practice, and demonstrate proper positioning and placement of saliva ejector, HVE, and air/water syringe. The student will discuss the role of the dental assistant during a limited/emergency examination and a new patient examination, recognize several types of dental charts, interpret charting symbols and abbreviations, tooth numbering and identification systems, and taking patient’s vitals. Students will learn types of local anesthetics and topical anesthetics, techniques, and administration list the steps of the assessment phase, components of the dental hygiene care plan, documentation of treatment, and the importance of the evaluation visit. Students will be taught the appropriate types of polishing methods, correct attachment for polishing, indications for professional topical fluoride, and list indications and contraindications for dental sealants.

This module will explore the different ideas of marketing for dentistry, cover the information needed before placing an order for dental supplies and equipment, scheduling appointments, sending appointment reminders, and handling patient correspondence, greeting patients, maintain the patient chart filing system and records, patient forms to be used, preparing for the dental day appointments, posting patient charges, balancing day sheets, filing insurance claims. Students will be able to describe the difference between telephone, communication, and business office technology and its uses, demonstrate how to file radiographs in a chart, managing appointment books, dental patient record management, accounts payable, and accounts receivable. They will learn how to properly post payments to the patient account, handle collection calls and create a payment plan, learn the overhead costs of a dental practice, complete a deposit slip, and make a bank deposit and properly process an invoice. Students will learn to identify and explain types of dental plans, dental procedure codes, business office systems, dental office software, and computer safety. Students will learn ways in which computers are used in the dental office, how database management concepts can be used in the dental office, how to access Denorex Learning Edition software, patient management, and practice management systems.

In this module, the student will become familiar with the function and structure of the body systems, body planes and directions, the cavities of the body and describe the structure and function of the cell, explain the functions and divisions of the skeletal system, identify the composition of the bone, and the types of joints. Identify the landmarks of the face and oral cavity, including the tongue, floor of the mouth, and salivary glands, explain why a patient’s head and neck exam is important during a dental visit. Students will learn the steps to achieving asepsis techniques, OSHA requirements, hazardous material handling and disposal of hazardous materials in the dental office, identify the purpose of each component of personal protective equipment (PPE), the steps in maintaining a contaminated patient tray in the sterilization area, identify that factors that can impact disinfectant efficiency. Students will also learn about prenatal growth and development, tissue function, and the structures of the oral cavity around the teeth. The structure and forms of human teeth and their location in the mouth along with the eruption schedule and function of each tooth in the primary and permanent dentition. Students will learn about miscellaneous disorders affecting the oral cavity, conditions, and lesions related to HIV and AIDS and pharmacology for the types of drugs commonly administered in a dental office, recognize commonly used dental anesthetics by name and concentration and medication on the medical history that may impact dental care. Students will also learn prevention of a medical emergency through collection of accurate patient history and management of diseases and conditions in the dental office will be covered and the particular care for patients with disabilities, the effects of aging, and dental management of the older patient.

In this module, students will develop a solid foundation in dental radiography, focusing on essential aspects DA165 - Fundamentals of Dental Radiography of radiographic equipment, safety protocols, and clinical practices. The course covers the operation and maintenance of radiographic equipment, emphasizing radiation safety and infection control. Students will learn how to effectively capture and process dental images, interpret radiographs, and ensure high-quality results. Practical skills in mounting and evaluating radiographs will be developed, preparing students to apply these techniques safely and accurately in a clinical environment.

In this module, students will complete the LDA's "Radiographic Techniques and Safety Online Course," DA166 - Advanced Techniques in Dental Radiography which provides essential practical skills and theoretical knowledge for effective and safe radiographic practice in a dental setting. Students will master the sequence of exposures using bisecting and paralleling techniques, accurately place image receptors for bitewing and periapical radiographs, and perform both manual and automatic processing of radiographs while maintaining processing equipment. They will also review and interpret mounted radiographs in a full-mouth series. Additionally, students will learn to identify and differentiate commonly used dental materials on radiographs, understand the principles and equipment involved in panoramic radiography, and discuss the roles and responsibilities of a dental assistant as a radiographer, focusing on safety and compliance standards.

In this module, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of cavity preparation for dental amalgam placement, including the clinical significance of amalgam properties and the detailed procedures for finishing and polishing amalgam restorations. Additionally, they will explore the purpose and techniques of etching and bonding, as well as matrix systems used with composite resins. This will equip students with the knowledge to effectively perform and refine both amalgam and composite restorations, ensuring high-quality outcomes in dental treatments.

In this module, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of tooth fracture classifications, the use of dental cement, and the progression and management of dental caries. They will learn to distinguish between different types of provisional materials, recognize their clinical significance, and understand the properties and uses of various materials. Additionally, students will compare and contrast techniques for fabricating custom-made impression trays and grasp the importance of proper storage for alginate impressions to ensure their accuracy and effectiveness.

In this module, students will gain comprehensive skills in diagnosing and treating diseases of the pulp and periapical tissues, as well as mastering endodontic, orthodontic, and periodontic procedures, including root canal treatments and periapical surgeries. They will explore Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in depth and focus on pediatric dentistry, learning about the roles of various team members, understanding the behavioral characteristics of children at different developmental stages, and applying effective behavioral management techniques. The module will also cover common pediatric procedures and the specialized equipment used in these practices, preparing students to handle a wide range of clinical scenarios with confidence and expertise.

This module is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills for managing and maintaining dental prosthetics, as well as understanding cosmetic enhancements. Students will learn effective techniques for gingival retraction, explore various prosthetic appliances and implants including their placement and maintenance, and master the care and upkeep of fixed prosthetic devices. Additionally, the module offers a comprehensive overview of cosmetic dentistry, covering the procedures and materials used to enhance the aesthetic quality of dental work. Through this integrated approach, students will gain a thorough understanding of both the functional and aesthetic aspects of modern dental practice.

Students will practice techniques on volunteers at school and may also be assigned to dental offices for practical experience.