Mission: The mission of this program is to prepare students for employment as dental assistants and dental auxiliaries and to take the Dental Assisting National Board Examination.

Program H170104 consists of a planned sequence of courses.

Basic Healthcare Worker - Course HSC0003 (90 hours) – Instruction covers basic health care and safety procedures, employability, communications, interpersonal skills, basic mathematics, science, computer literacy, CPR, and First Aid.

Dental Sterile Technician – Course DEA0720 (160 hours) – Content includes dental and general anatomy and terminology of clinical dentistry, legal and ethical responsibilities, infection control procedures, and the proper use of dental instruments and equipment.

Dental Assistant, 1 of 3 – Course DEA0721 DEA0708 (215 hours) – Content includes patient information and assessment, oral health and preventive dentistry, functions of pharmacology and anesthesia as they relate to dentistry, and dental office emergencies and their prevention.

Dental Assistant, 2 of 3 – Course DEA0722 (315 hours) – Content includes basic dental office procedures, dental materials, dental laboratory skills, and radiology.

Dental Assistant, 3 of 3 – Course DEA0723 (450 hours) – Content includes dental specialty procedures, assisting in comprehensive dental care, and expanded functions for the State of Florida. 

SPECIAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: A high school diploma or a GED is required for this program. Specific health occupations admission guidelines (immunizations, drug screening, background check, etc.) are available in Student Services.

Distance Education:  Available – refer to Distance Learning section

Articulation Agreement(s):  St. Petersburg College Dental Hygiene, A.S. Degree

Pinellas County Schools Centers for Wellness and Medical Professions

Program Accreditation:  American Dental Association, Commission on Dental Accreditation

Industry Certification(s):  Florida Expanded Duties