Courses and Requirements
The Dental Assisting Certificate provides the student with knowledge and practical skills required to perform entry level dental assisting functions competently. Three hundred hours of practical experience is provided in local dental offices to demonstrate the student’s competence in performing dental assisting skills. Students who successfully pass the Certification for Dental Assistants examination sponsored by the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. become Certified Dental Assistants. A minimum of 37 credit hours are required to graduate.
Accreditation
The Dental Assisting Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, (312) 440-4653.
Additional Admission Criteria
Admission Criteria can be found on Health Required Forms.
Information Session Dates
The dates for Dental Information Sessions can be found on the Health Information Sessions.
CORI/CHRI/SORI
Students interested in participation in this academic program may be required to undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, a Criminal Records Central Repository (CHRI) check and/or a Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) check. For more information, visit the CORI/CHRI/SORI page on the NECC website.
Northern Essex Community College is committed to the success of every student. Students with legal issues in their background will meet with a committee as part of the CORI/CHRI/SORI process and will receive guidance and counseling throughout the review of their records. NECC personnel make every effort to help students prepare for careers in their chosen field. Students are encouraged to seek assistance and support.
CPR
Students are required to be CPR Certified at the Health Care Provider/Professional Rescuer level prior to the start of clinical courses.
Drug Screening
Students enrolled in this academic program may be required to pass a drug screening analysis.
Health
Students are required to complete a health evaluation, including the Hepatitis B immunization series, prior to final acceptance to the Program.
Student Professional Liability Insurance
Students are required to carry professional liability insurance. The premium is to be paid at the time of course registration.
Requirements
Select ONE of the following courses (3-4 credits)
Program Notes
Dental assistants work closely with dentists, dental hygienists and the public. Individuals interested in exploring opportunities in Dental assisting should be responsible, have excellent interpersonal skills, and good manual dexterity.
Recommended Course Sequence Dental Assisting Certificate
Year 1
Fall
Spring