In this foundational week, students will be introduced to the field of dentistry, including an overview of dental terminology, the roles of dental professionals, and the structure of dental offices. Students will gain a solid understanding of what it means to work as a dental assistant.

This week focuses on the principles and protocols of infection control. Students will learn about sterilization techniques, how to maintain a sterile environment, and the best practices for preventing the spread of infection in a dental setting. The module will also cover personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper disposal of hazardous materials.

Students will explore common dental emergencies and how to respond to them in a clinical setting. This includes learning CPR certification and dental charting techniques to document patient data accurately. By the end of the week, students will be prepared to assist in urgent dental care scenarios.

In this week, students will delve into dental restorative materials, focusing on amalgam and composite fillings. They will learn about the properties of each material and when they are used in patient care. The module will also introduce the basics of dental radiology, including proper X-ray techniques and patient safety.

Students will work with live patients this week, applying their knowledge of radiology in real-life scenarios. This hands-on experience will help them perfect their radiographic techniques, including taking and processing dental X-rays, while adhering to all safety guidelines.

This week is dedicated to assessing the progress students have made through written exams and lab practicals. It’s an opportunity to review the knowledge and skills gained so far, ensuring students are prepared for the remaining course material.

Students will learn about prosthodontics, which includes the design and application of dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, and implants. This week covers the use of cements in securing prosthetic devices and the role dental assistants play in these procedures.

This week dives into periodontics (the study of gum disease) and oral surgery. Students will learn about surgical procedures, periodontal treatments, and the role of a dental assistant during these operations. They will also get hands-on experience in coronal polishing, a technique used to remove plaque and stains from teeth.

Students will practice coronal polishing on live patients, further developing their skills in this essential dental hygiene task. They will also gain confidence in working with patients in a clinical setting.

This week covers endodontics (root canal treatments) and how dental assistants can assist in these procedures. Students will also work on their resume to prepare for the job market and learn how to apply pit and fissure sealants, which help prevent cavities in patients.

Students will apply pit and fissure sealants on live patients, honing their skills in preventive care techniques that help patients avoid tooth decay.

The final week is dedicated to reviewing and testing the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course. Students will take a comprehensive final exam that includes written and lab components, preparing them to enter the dental field with confidence