​Program Overview Transcript

 

The dental assistant program at LBCC combines classroom, lab work, and clinical internships to provide a comprehensive education. This one-year program uses a hands-on approach to prepare students for work after graduation.

The dental assistant training laboratory at LBCC includes a six-chair dental clinic, sterilization and x-ray areas, a dental lab, and radiology rooms. Students learn procedures on anatomical mannequins, then open the on-campus clinic to offer basic dental services to the community. Students practice scheduling appointments and keeping records in order to gain experience with the office-related aspect of the job.

LBCC’s program lasts four terms, beginning in the fall and concluding the following summer. During the first two terms, students combine classroom instruction with observation in general practice offices. In the third term, students observe specialty practices. In the fourth and final term, students work as clinical assistants in dental offices in order to practice the skills they have learned and prepare for their new careers.

Education requirements for dental assistants vary by state, so if you wish to practice outside of Oregon, remember that other states may have different requirements. In order to guarantee maximum employment opportunities, LBCC’s Dental Assistant program prepares students to take the Certified Dental Assistant exam, integrating the exam’s three segments into the program curriculum. If you successfully graduate and pass the CDA exam, you can also apply for an Expanded Function License, which permits you to perform more advanced dental tasks.

Admission to the LBCC Dental Assistant program is a competitive process, with students vying for a limited number of spots. Admitted students will be expected to follow and adhere to program regulations. First and foremost, you must be able to pass a background check. Healthcare providers and facilities require criminal background checks for all of their employees, including any student who wishes to work there. You may need to undergo a background check at several times throughout the program, and you will be responsible for absorbing the costs each time. If you have been charged with or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, you might not be eligible to sit for the certification exam. If you have questions, you should contact the Dental Assisting National Board (the DANB) to check your eligibility before applying for admission to this program.

You must pass a drug test. Immunizations and a CPR card are required prior to the start of the program, at an additional cost to you. You need to be able to demonstrate proof of sufficient skill in reading, writing, math, and computer competency, either by taking the required prerequisites or by earning a high enough score on LBCC’s placement tests. Once you have been admitted, you must earn a C or better in all program courses to continue in the program.

In order to participate in this program, you must have access to an upgraded computer and high-speed Internet. You need to have an email address, be comfortable using the web, and be able to read and print online documents. A webcam and a computer microphone are required for the online portions of this program. You will also need to be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

This program is eligible for financial aid. To determine if you are eligible, you must fill out a FAFSA form and list LBCC as a receiving school. Financial aid is limited by some restrictions, so you may need to contact the Financial Aid office to discuss your options.

If you successfully complete LBCC’s Dental Assistant program, pass the first two segments of the DANB exam, and complete the required hours of clinical assisting, you will be eligible to sit for the third and final segment of the exam. If you pass the exam, you will have earned the title of Certified Dental Assistant and be ready to work in an entry-level dental assistant position.