Course Descriptions

Dental Assistant Course Descriptions

Enter a course number to retrieve its description:   
(Enter Datatel Course Numbers with the dash. i.e. ENGL-100; use commas to separate multiple Course Numbers)

DAST-100 - DENTAL ASSISTING TECHNIQUES 1  3 credits
This course is primarily designed to educate the student in the proper identification, care and use of all types of dental equipment and instruments. As the student progresses, he/she will have a working knowledge of tray set-ups and instrument sequencing for each dental procedure to enable the student to utilize 4-handed chairside assisting effectively. Aseptic techniques, including an understanding of the principles of microbiology, sterilization and infection control are emphasized in this introductory course. In addition, dental terminology and charting procedures will be discussed. COREQUISITE: DAST-100L.
DAST-102 - ORAL ANATOMY  2 credits
Study of the anatomy, embryology and histology of oral structures with emphasis on deciduous and permanent dentitions including morphology, eruption, function and occlusions.
DAST-103 - DENTAL RADIOLOGY 1  3 credits
This course is primarily designed to afford the student an opportunity to integrate the theoretical as well as the practical application of exposing, processing, mounting and interpreting full-mouth and bite-wing radiographs through the use of the bisecting and paralleling techniques. These goals are achieved through the utilization of simulated exercises and clinical practice which will aid the student in developing radiographic expertise. In addition, panoramic radiography will be discussed. COREQUISITE: DAST-103L.
DAST-105 - DENTAL SCIENCES 1  2 credits
This course is primarily designed to educate the student in all phases of diet, nutrition, and oral health. It is intended to familiarize the student with basic nutritional deficiencies and oral manifestations that the patient may experience as a result of his/her dietary habits. Also covered in the course are the principles of nutritional counseling. As the student progresses, he/she will have a working knowledge of the techniques of counseling patients according to their specific dietary and oral health needs.
DAST-106 - DENTAL MATERIALS 1  3 credits
The chemical, physical and manipulative properties of common materials are studied. Attempt is made to correlate the various materials used in dentistry to the principles and practices of major specialties in dentistry. The role of the dental auxiliary in the manipulation and application of these materials is stressed. COREQUISITE: DAST-106L.
DAST-200 - DENTAL ASSISTING TECHNIQUES 2  3 credits
A continuation of first semester, this course seeks to advance the skill and dexterity of the student in all techniques. There is a coordination of activities in an effort to combine efficient chairside performance with general dental assisting tasks. Additionally, this course is designed to enhance the student’s awareness of various employment opportunities that will be available upon graduation. To accomplish this goal, the student will pursue an in-depth study of the numerous dental specialties, including periodontics, orthodontics, oral surgery, and endodontics, to name a few. With this knowledge, the student should be able to integrate effectively the theory of dental assisting with the practical application of all procedures. In order to educate the student as to his/her legal responsibilities to the dentist, the patient, and ultimately to the field of dental assisting, the student will also receive lectures on ethics and jurisprudence as they pertain to the practice of dentistry. PREREQUISITE: DAST-100. COREQUISITE: DAST-200L.
DAST-201 - DENTAL SCIENCES 2  3 credits
This course is designed to familiarize the student with the various tissue changes that may occur in the patient’s oral cavity as a result of pathological and/or systemic conditions. Also included will be a study of medical emergencies and their respective first-aid protection, films and processing, dental radiographic anatomy, and intra-oral radiographic procedures. PREREQUISITE: DAST-105.
DAST-202 - DENTAL RECORDS  2 credits
This course is primarily designed for the dental assistant. Included will be basic business procedures which are essential to the effective management and control of the dental office. Business skills are reviewed and developed for practical application in the office. In addition, procedures in filing, banking, billing, managing the appointment book, organizing a preventive recall system, insurance, tax forms, and all types of financial transactions which might be found in the dental practice will be explored. PREREQUISITE: DAST-100. Offered Spring Semester
DAST-203 - DENTAL RADIOLOGY 2  1 credit
A continuation of the first semester, this laboratory course enables the student to further enhance his/her skills in the techniques of radiographs through the utilization of the bisecting and paralleling techniques. These goals are achieved through the use of simulated exercises and clinical practice on patients which will aid the student in developing radiographic expertise within the dental office. PREREQUISITE: DAST-103. Successful completion of fall semester courses with a "C" (73%) or better. Successful completion of a basic life support and recognition (certification) with current status in the academic year. Offered Spring Semester
DAST-204 - CLINICAL AFFILIATION  5 credits
Since the College does not have a dental school with which to affiliate, this portion of the student's training is accomplished through the continued interest and cooperation of our area dental society. At this time, the student should be able to expand his/her dental assisting education and to improve his/her chairside skills under the direct supervision of dentists and auxiliary personnel. Offered Spring Semester PREREQUISITES: DAST-100, DAST-102, DAST-103, DAST-105, DAST-106.