The required dental assisting program classes are taught during the day; however, the general education courses required for the certificate or degree may be taken in the evening or at an alternate location.

The 10-month program is scheduled to begin in summer with program completion in the following spring. The program includes classroom instruction as well as clinical experience in the DVC community clinic and various externship rotations.

The Dental Assisting Program is limited to 24 students. Applicants must submit high school transcripts conferring graduation or equivalent to the DVC Admissions and Records Office, and successfully pass DENTL-120 Orientation to the Dental Assisting Program to be considered.

Dental assisting students must submit the following to the Dental Programs Department by the beginning of classes: (1) CPR/BLS certification for Health Care Providers; (2) current immunizations/titers; (3) proof of satisfactory tuberculosis (TB) screening; (4) current physical examination; (5) background check; and (6) passing certified drug test.

To earn an associate in science degree with a major in dental assisting, students must complete each course used to meet a major requirement with a “C” grade or higher and complete all general education requirements as listed in the catalog. Certain courses may satisfy both major and other general education requirements; however, the units are only counted once.

Students completing the program will be able to...

- act as a member of the dental health team and apply professional, ethical and legal principles while functioning in the role of the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA).

- assume responsibility for prevention of disease transmission utilizing universal precautions in the work environment to protect those entrusted to their care.

- show competence in skills as described in the current California Dental Practice Act. Said professional should perform with a balance of professionalism and sensitivity characteristic of genuine compassionate care.

- exhibit knowledge necessary for successful completion of the California Registered Dental Assistant’s Examination and the National Certified Dental Assistant’s Examination.

- apply critical thinking and self-assessment skills to enhance learning, research, patient car, professional growth, and continued competency.

- integrate and apply health literacy and culturally competent communication skills to oral health care services, academic endeavors, community projects, and professional activities.