Location: East Campus (Oley)
Instructor:  Theresa Moorhouse
Order Supplies
CIP Code: 51.0601

Program Entrance Recommendations:

Reading at grade level
Algebra I or Geometry
Problem solving/troubleshooting skills
Ability to work independently and in a team
Hand-eye coordination
Emotionally mature

Career Pathways

Dental Assistant
Circulating Assistant
Dental Laboratory Technician Assistant
Dental Hygienist
Dental Assistant Instructor
Dentist
Certified Laboratory Technician
Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary
Certified Dental Practice Management Administrator

The Dental Occupations program integrates lectures, demonstrations and hands-on experiences to teach students a variety of dental related subjects. The program provides leading edge training for a career as a dental assistant and also prepares students interested in attending a post-secondary institution to become a dental hygienist, expanded function dental assistant or a dentist.

The curriculum covers an introduction to health care, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, ethical/legal responsibilities, anatomy and physiology related to dentistry, patient care and procedures, office procedures, dental pain and anxiety control, radiology, operative dentistry, dental materials, dental laboratory procedures, basics of oral surgery, periodontics, and prosthodontics.

By completing this program, students are well prepared for their chosen careers. As dental assistants, they assist dentists during examination and treatment of patients. Students learn to prepare patients for treatment, sterilize instruments, prepare materials and make study models from impressions, expose and process x-ray film, use digital imaging, and provide chairside assistance for the dentist. 

Industry Certifications:

NELDA (National Entry Level Dental Assistant)
BLS Healthcare Provider
Radiation Health & Safety (RHS) 
OSHA/CareerSafe 10-Hour Certification

Program Requirements/Costs (approximate):

Please use the Order Supplies link for the approximate costs of the Textbooks, Tools & Supplies, and Uniforms for this program.

Industry certification testing fees - $170*
Vaccination - TBD

* BCTC will pay for one pair of safety glasses (if required) and may assist with payment for the  testing fees or core certification tests (first time only).  Additional safety glasses and testing fees must be paid by the student.