Dental Assistant Training Program
West Contra Costa's Dental Assistant Training Program offers comprehensive instruction over three levels. In Level I, students are introduced to essential skills such as basic dental office procedures, terminology, infection control, patient care, and sterilization. Level II focuses on advanced topics like restorative dental materials, patient charting, and preparing for the Radiation Safety Exam. Level III is the final course in the series focusing on topics like medical emergencies in the dental office, front office responsibilities, and preparation for the Law and Ethics exam for dental assistants. These program will prepare students for certification and a successful career in dental assisting.
What courses are offered?
Dental Assistant Level One
Dental Assisting - Level 1 is an introduction to the skills and concepts needed for the WCCAE’s Dental Assistant Training Program. This is the first course of two within the dental assistant program which is focused on preparing students for a dental assisting certification. Class instruction includes: basic dental office procedures dental terminology, infection control, 4-6 handed dental assisting, patient care, anatomy, physiology, dental asepsis and sterilization.
Dental Assistant Level Two
This course is a continuation of Dental Assistant Level I. This class is focused on restorative and esthetic dental materials and procedures. Students will learn how to take impressions, do restorative patient charting, be able to explain different restorative treatments such as implants, oral surgery, and endodontics. They will review and prepare for the Radiation Safety Exam for certification and learn and review CAMBRA, a standard approach to assessing, preventing, and managing caries.
Dental Assistant Level Three
Dental Assistant-Level III is the final course in the series of dental assisting classes. New topics in this class include, medical emergencies and how to respond to medical emergencies in the dental office, front office responsibilities, and preparation for the Law and Ethics exam for dental assistants. The class will prepare students to apply for employment by preparing students for the Nelda Exam, helping them write resumes, practice interviewing, create portfolios, and do job search. Students will have the opportunity to practice skills learned in actual dental offices and/or clinics.
Benefits of our Dental Assistant Training Program
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Comprehensive Learning: Gain in-depth knowledge of restorative and esthetic dental materials and procedures, setting a solid foundation for your dental assisting career.
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Practical Skills: Learn essential skills like taking impressions, performing patient charting, and explaining various dental treatments, ensuring you're prepared for real-world scenarios.
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Exam Preparation: Receive focused training to help you successfully pass the Radiation Safety Exam, a crucial certification for dental assistants.
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Holistic Approach: Understand and apply CAMBRA, an effective method for assessing, preventing, and managing caries, enhancing your ability to provide excellent patient care.
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Career Advancement: Equip yourself with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in dental assisting, increasing your employability and career prospects in the dental field.