The dental assistant is an integral part of the dental health care team. Dental assistants prepare a patient for an exam, pass instruments to the doctor, prepare dental materials, expose and develop X-rays, teach preventative dental care and sterilize instruments. You could be instrumental in helping patients be less anxious about having dental check-ups. You could also help children understand why brushing their teeth is important.
Sample careers in this field: Dental assistant
See which campuses offer this area of study.
Curriculum varies based on the degree (A.A.S., A.S., or Technical Certificate) and is subject to change. Curriculum posted are samples; Advisors can help determine sequence of classes.
| GENERAL EDUCATION -- 7 CREDITS |
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Introduction to Interpersonal Communication |
3 |
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English Composition |
3 |
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Life Skills Elective |
1 |
| PROFESSIONAL / TECHNICAL CORE -- 33 CREDITS |
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Dental Materials Lab I |
3 |
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Preclinical Practice I |
4 |
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Dental Emergencies-Pharmacology |
2 |
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Dental Office Management |
2 |
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Dental Radiography |
4 |
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Clinical Practicum |
1 |
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Dental Anatomy |
2 |
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Preventive Dentistry-Diet and Nutrition |
2 |
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Preclinical Practice II |
3 |
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Dental Materials and Laboratory II |
3 |
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Clinical Practicum II |
5 |
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Basic Integrated Science |
2 |
| TOTAL CREDITS |
40 |
"Ivy Tech was a wonderful school. I had plenty of teacher-student time if questions came about. The Dental Assisting program is wonderful. I would attend Ivy Tech again for continuing education."
Danielle Greives
Dental Assisting, '06
Certified Dental Assistant
