
Dental Assistant
HEALTHCARE
Perform a variety of services from office and laboratory duties to working chairside assisting dentists as they examine and treat patients.
Career Details
Skills
Students in Dental Assistant are trained in the following subject areas:
- Setting up equipment and preparing patients for treatment
- Sterilizing or disinfecting instruments, setting up instrument trays, preparing materials, and assisting the dentist during dental procedures
- Exposing dental diagnostic X-rays
- Collecting and recording treatment information and clinical data in patient records
- Educating patients on how to maintain their dental health
Requirements
Before entering the program, students must:
- Strong listening, communication, and organizational skills
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
- At least 3,500 hours of experience as a dental assistant to achieve General Chairside (GC) certification
- Complete all required activity in the Career Preparation Period, including Career Exploration and Career Success/Workplace Skills.
- Meet basic academic requirements in math and reading.
Credentials
As a Job Corps student, you will have the opportunity to earn credentials in your training area that may lead to greater employment opportunities, higher wages, and promotions.
Expectations
While on the job, you will be expected to display the following traits at all times:
- Attention to detail
- Concern for others
- Cooperation
- Dependability
- Integrity
Dental Assistant Numbers to Know
$40K
National average earning potential for this career
Completion times vary by training area. Check with your admissions advisor.
2
Centers offering training in this program