Certificate

DENTAL ASSISTANT (51.0601)

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for entry-level employment as dental assistants and dental auxiliaries. Graduates of this program may apply to take the Certified Dental Assistant Examination given by the Dental Assisting National Board. Graduates are eligible for employment as dental assistants with expanded functions and radiography skills. The university awards a certificate upon completion of the program.

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Program Requirements (18 Credits)

Core Requirements

Courses
Credit Hours
  • DEA 101
    Introduction to Dental Assisting
    1
  • DEA 104
    Dental Materials
    1
  • DEA 106
    Dental Anatomy
    2
  • DEA 108
    Diet, Nutrition, and Oral Hygiene
    1
  • DEA 110
    Dental X-Ray
    1
  • DEA 112
    Front Office Procedures
    1
  • DEA 114
    Dental Office Emergencies
    1
  • DEA 120
    Preclinical Dental Assisting Procedures
    2
  • DEA 122
    Expanded Functions for Dental Assistant I
    2
  • DEA 124
    Expanded Functions for Dental Assistant II**
    2
  • DEA 126
    Clinical Externship**
    4

DENTAL CLASSES ARE OFFERED SIMULTANEOUSLY IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH

Completing a course or program in a language other than English may reduce employability where English is required. Dental Assistant students are required to wear medical attire and white shoes at all times. Students must furnish their own uniforms.

All students must have liability insurance and dosimeters in order to participate in the clinical rotations.
All students must have liability insurance and dosimeters in order to participate in the clinical rotations. Students must complete 120 hours of clinical practice. All students must provide BLS, OSHA, HIV, and HIPPA seminar completion forms in order to participate in the clinical rotations.
The certificate program focuses on dental assisting procedures, dental materials, anatomy, education for patients in diet, nutrition and oral hygiene, X-Ray administration, clerical tasks, emergency triage, as well as sanitation and safety protocols. The Dental Assistant Certificate program prepares Florida National University students for entry-level positions assisting dentists and dental hygienist in dental practices in Florida.
**This course has prerequisites; check course description.