Online Dental Assistant Curriculum and Classes

Students begin with an introduction to the dental assisting career, providing an overview of daily activities in dental treatment facilities and the duties and responsibilities of dental assistants. Students study the importance of preventive dentistry and healthy eating habits. Students hone communication skills to effectively interact with coworkers, welcome patients and gather information. Students learn the components of a patient record and the dental assistant’s responsibilities in complying with HIPAA regulations. Students are introduced to dental equipment, instruments and materials. In addition, students explore the dental treatment area, the elements of a dental examination, dental exam techniques and learn how to measure vital signs.

Here, students examine dental front-office procedures, such as scheduling appointments, maintaining inventory and ordering supplies. Students explore the biology of disease transmission and infection control. In addition, students learn how to use sterilization equipment, properly dispose of waste, discover the importance of handwashing, gloving, glove removal procedures and the use of other personal protective equipment. Students practice dental terminology as they learn about the specific features of the oral cavity and the types of teeth, the dental arches, dentition and tooth numbering systems. Students learn how to classify and chart dental conditions and document treatment plans. Students learn how to maintain asepsis in the operatory area by using barriers and sterilization techniques, lay out instruments and materials, and use correct single-handed and two-handed transfer techniques. The material concludes with instructions on the characteristics of topical, local and general anesthetics, as well as the procedures dental assistants can perform to deliver pain medications.

Students explore pediatric dentistry, orthodontia and dentistry for the disabled. They learn common procedures and how dentists treat traumatic injuries. Then, students identify diseases of the mouth and the effects of medical treatments. Students learn how to respond to common medical emergencies that can occur in the dental office. They explore oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures and the instruments that are used in this specialized field. Next, students learn about dental insurance, how to determine patient eligibility and benefits and how to work with procedure codes to file claims. Finally, students learn about radiology procedures.

Here, students learn about impression creation and how to prepare restorative materials. They also gain an overview for assisting with prosthodontic, periodontic and endodontic procedures. Then, students become familiar with codes of ethics and laws that affect the field of dentistry. The final lesson provides a real-world quiz that allows students the opportunity to “work” in a dental office.