Program Outline
-
Week 1 — Welcome to the Chair
Sterilization, dental materials, and your first day in PPE — because before you touch a single instrument, you’ve got to know how to keep it (and your patient) squeaky clean. You'll leave knowing infection control isn't optional, it's the whole job.
-
Week 2 — X-Ray Vision, Basically
Time to learn the face and mouth like the back of your hand — then start shooting your first dental X-rays. Film placement, positioning, the whole radiology starter pack. Yes, you get to use the cool equipment this week.
-
Week 3 — Legal Stuff + More X-Rays
HIPAA isn't just a buzzword — it's the law, and you'll actually understand why it matters. Then it's back to radiology: mounting films, panoramic X-rays, and full digital imaging. Knowledge + skills, no notes.
-
Week 4 — Cavity Detectives
Ever wonder how dentists actually spot a cavity before it becomes a problem? This week you're learning the science behind dental caries — plus practicing your film-mounting game for the real deal.
-
Week 5 — Big Exam Energy
This is it: your Full Mouth X-Ray clinical exam, the one that counts toward your state boards. You'll also cover radiograph safety and infection control so you walk in prepared, not stressed.
-
Week 6 — Mix, Match, Restore
Amalgam, composite, cements, liners — this week is basically a crash course in every material a dentist reaches for mid-procedure. You'll be mixing dental materials like a pro by Friday... well, Monday.
-
Week 7 — Hands, Handpieces, and HVE
The stuff that makes you look like you know what you're doing: handpieces, suction, anesthesia setup, and placing a rubber dam without panicking. This is where "dental assistant" starts to feel real.
-
Week 8 — Prevention Is the Plan
Sealants, fluoride, coronal polishing — the appointments patients actually look forward to. You'll also sit your Mid-Term Exam this week, so it's a big one on both fronts.
-
Week 9 — Crowns, But Make It Temporary
Fixed vs. removable, demystified. You'll assist a real crown/bridge appointment and make your very own temporary crown. (Yes, we still do these — don't let anyone tell you otherwise.)
-
Week 10 — Save Your Wrists, Save Your Career
Ergonomics isn't just a nice-to-have — it's how you stay in this field long-term. Perio charting, clinical documentation, and dental hand instruments, all with your future body in mind.
-
Week 11 — The Unsung Hero: Waterlines
Not the most glamorous topic, but dental unit waterlines matter more than you'd think. Plus you'll pour models, trim trays, and fabricate a whitening tray from scratch.
-
Week 12 — When Things Go Sideways
Medical emergencies happen — this week you learn how to respond like a pro. You'll also get a preview of specialties beyond general dentistry: endodontics, oral surgery, implants, and more.
-
Week 13 — Front Desk to Back Office
Mock interviews, practice management software, real talk about marketing yourself. This is where clinical skills meet career readiness.
-
Week 14 — Prove It
Final exam, final practical, and your CPR certification. Walk in a student, walk out job-ready.