Expanded Functions Dental Assisting

Objective

The objective of the Expanded Functions Dental Assisting program is to train students to acquire satisfactory skills and demonstrate competence in a variety of dental office procedures and laboratory techniques. The procedures and lab techniques include preliminary examination procedure, assisting at chair-side using four-handed dentistry, charting, appointment scheduling, keeping patient records and sterilizing instruments. Under the direct supervision of a dentist, the assistant may perform expanded functions such as intraoral procedures in restorative dentistry and oral surgery. The assistant qualified in radiology may also take and expose radiographs. Students are evaluated in all areas of professional development including applicable spelling, terminology, theory and performance skills, as well as front office skills and general education subjects.

Description

The Expanded Functions Dental Assisting diploma program provides students with a solid foundation of chair side assisting, dental radiology, dental terminology and the expanded function skills needed for graduates to be successful as an entry-level expanded functions dental assistant.

Externship

Two externship courses are included in this program to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations in a healthcare setting. Students are required to complete the required externship hours and other related learning activities prior to graduation. Students are not paid for work performed at the externship site.

Credentialing Exams

Upon successful completion of the Radiology course, students are eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board’s (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety examination (RHS). In addition, students will be eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board’s (DANB) Infection Control Examination (ICE). These tests are offered through Pearson Learning/Testing Center by computer. Upon successful completion of the program students are eligible to sit for the Maryland General Dental Assisting Expanded Functions (MDG) exam. Please note that Maryland applicants must apply separately to the State of Maryland Board of Dental Examiners for a Dental Radiation Technologist (DRT) credential and the Maryland Qualified Dental Assistant (QDA) credential. Criminal convictions may affect a student’s ability to be certified or registered.

Career Opportunities

Upon satisfactory completion of the training, students are prepared to seek entry-level positions as dental assistants performing the dental procedures, lab techniques, and front office duties described above.