Dental Assistant Diploma

Required Course(s)

Total Credits Required to Complete this Diploma - 47

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$143.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

Approximate total for the program: $10,476*

* Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

The Dental Assistant program utilizes a background check service, www.certifiedbackground.com, to conduct criminal
background/abuse checks and to track immunizations, health records and CPR certification for each student after their
acceptance into the program. Students are responsible for the cost of this service (approximately $58).

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Assist dentist at chairside in delivering care to a patient. This may include seating the patients, adjusting the chair, placing a bib on the patient, operating the x-ray machine, developing and mounting x-rays, mixing filling materials and dental cements, and handing them to the dentist when they are needed.
• May serve as a receptionist, office manager, bookkeeper, secretary, laboratory assistant or preventive assistant.
• Might work for a specialist in the dental field such as an orthodontist who straightens teeth, an oral surgeon who removes teeth and performs other surgical procedures on the mouth, or a pedodontist who works on child patients only.
• Perform intraoral functions as delegated by the dentist within the limits of the State Practice Act.
• Sterilize instruments and pour plaster and stone models in the laboratory.
• Infection control and hazardous waste management.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• Knowledge of high school biology and ability to type 35 WPM is necessary to be successful.
• Excellent attendance and promptness are necessary.
• Perform activities in an organized and detailed manner.
• Apply knowledge from the biological, physical and social sciences.
• Take initiative in resolving patient care problems.
• Communicate easily with patients and coworkers.
• Good finger dexterity and eye/hand coordination.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

• You will have to put your fingers in the patient’s mouth.
• Necessary physical and emotional stamina to meet demands of rigorous program.
• Must provide own transportation to clinical sites.
• Dealing with the diversity of patients’ personalities and dental problems is challenging and rewarding.
• You may have to work some Saturdays and evenings.
• Criminal background checks will be completed on each student. Criminal convictions or documented history of abuse may delay or prevent students from participating in clinical education experiences. Students unable to participate in clinical education will be unable to complete the Dental Assistant program.
• Average starting salary $31,209 (2010-2011 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in or allow discrimination covered by law. This includes harassment based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator can be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850.