Dental Assisting

The Dentist’s Second Set of Eyes and Hands

Two dental assisting students work together. One is fully reclined in a dental chair and holding a mirror. The other is wearing gloves, a mask and uniform, and is examining the first student's teeth.
Students learn and develop the fundamental skills of chairside assistants along with the 21st century skills necessary to be successful in today’s workforce. This includes sterilization/ disinfecting techniques, dental laboratory skills, record keeping, hygiene and oral health, X-rays, dental and oral anatomy, patient relationship skills, and knowledge of current dental procedures.

Please Note: Industry dress code is strictly enforced including no artificial nails or artificial eyelashes. To participate in required clinical hours, NYS Health Industry vaccine requirements apply including COVID-19.

Units of Study

Professional and legal aspects of Dental Assisting, plus:

  • Preventative dentistry
  • Nutrition
  • Dental anatomy
  • Infection control and management of hazardous waste
  • Clinical dentistry and moisture control
  • Instruments, handpieces, and accessories
  • Dental examination
  • Patient care and emergency management
  • Dental office management
  • Digital Radiography
  • Dental materials
  • Patient management
  • Dental Specialties
  • Career and financial management
  • Overview of Dental Specialties
  • Microbiology
  • Career & Financial Management
  • Endodontics (Internship)
  • Orthodontics (Internship)
  • Oral & Maxillofacial (Internship)
  • Periodontics (Internship)
  • Prosthodontics (Internship)
  • Oral Pathology (Internship)
  • Dental Implants (Internship)
  • Pediatric Dentistry (Internship)
  • Computerized Impressions (Internship)
  • Review for NYS Dental Assisting Certification Exam

College Credits

Monroe Community College Dual Enrollment
HED 130: Foundations of Health and Wellness

Articulation Agreements

  • Broome Community College
  • SUNY Erie Community College 

Licensing / Industry-Based Certifications

  • 10-hour Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certification

  • American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Certification

  • Preparation for NYS Dental Assisting Certification

  • Laser Safety Officer Certification

  • Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
  • HIPAA Certification

Career Opportunities

coming soon!

Professional Outlook

Dental Assistant: 31.2% projected growth in jobs from 2018-28 in the Finger Lakes region
 
Median Finger Lakes region salary: $43,010 per year (in 2021)

Source: NYS Department of Labor 

Teacher

Jennifer Flanagan-Probst 
Jennifer Flanagan-Probst RDH,BS is a Certified Dental Assisting teacher. She is a Fellow with the Academy of Laser Dentistry and sits on the Academy of Laser Dentistry’s Laser Safety Committee. She is a Dental Hygienist and is certified to administer anesthesia. Jennifer has 20+ years' experience in dental practices. 

Enrollment Information

Meet with your school counselor to discuss how Career & Technical Education at WEMOCO can benefit your career development. Your counselor can help you begin the enrollment process.
Intro Video
Presentation Hosted by CTE Students