Dental Assistants are one of the first professionals patients see when they visit the dentist.  This multitasked profession allows dental assistants to be part of a variety of procedures. This profession can also be used as a platform to other dental professions such as dental hygiene, dentistry, orthodontics, dental product sales, etc.  Employment of dental assistants and dental hygienists are projected to grow 10-19 percent in the next 10 years – much faster than the average for all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In the Dental Assisting program students will learn dental terminology, oral anatomy and physiology, dental radiography, sterilization, impressions, and laboratory procedures, as well as how to assist in dental procedures. This program also gives students adult, child, and infant CPR certifications. The program is a combination of bookwork, academic topics, and hands-on laboratory skills. There are paid co-op placement opportunities available along with On-The-Job-Training in local dentist offices.  This program focuses on the importance of teamwork in the classroom and reflects the true workings of a dental office. The state of the art facility allows students to stay up-to-date on current trends in dentistry.

Successful students in this program usually have a strong science background, access to the internet, solid computer skills, compassion for others, and the ability to think critically and prioritize. Students must be current with Hepatitis B before going on clinicals.

HOSA