This entry-level dental assisting program prepares students to perform basic dental assisting skills. This program prepares students to work within Rhode Island as a dental assistant and will qualify students to sit for two out of the three DANB certification examinations. This program is a 14-week, full-time program and includes an externship. The main role of the dental assistant is to assist the dentist in a variety of office functions. Responsibilities vary depending upon the office. In most offices the dental assistant plays a large role in four-handed dental assisting, maintaining CDC, OSHA, and the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requirements, and are directly involved in the disinfection and the sterilization process.
Due to the nature of this program, full immunizations are required for participation. Acceptable evidence of COVID-19 vaccination is required, or a medical exemption from a licensed healthcare provider, or religious exemption, in accordance with Rhode Island Department of Health regulations and other state or federal regulations.
Coursework will be conducted at Westerly Education Center; clinicals will be held at Wood River Health Services in Hope Valley, RI.
This training is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor. A total of $138,610 or 74% is financed with federal funds and $50,000, or 26%, is funded from other sources.
