Dental Assisting

Make an Impression on Your Future and Help Smiles Shine

Two dental assisting students work together.
Prepare for a rewarding career in dental assisting through hands-on learning and real-world clinical experiences. Develop essential skills in dental anatomy, infection control, chairside procedures and the use of clinical instruments. Gain a strong foundation in patient care, dental emergencies and professional workplace practices. During the second year, participate in industry-based internships within dental offices and specialty practices, where you'll apply your knowledge, build confidence, and explore a variety of career pathways in the dental field while working toward becoming a Registered Dental Assistant.

What You Can Learn

Units of Study

  • Professional and Legal Aspects
  • Preventative Dentistry
  • Nutrition
  • Dental Anatomy
  • Infection Control/Hazardous Waste
  • Clinical Dentistry and Moisture control
  • Instruments, Hand Pieces and Accessories
  • Dental examination
  • Patient Care and Emergency Management
  • Dental Office Management
  • Digital Radiography
  • Dental Materials
  • Dental Specialties
  • Internships in areas such as Endodontics, Orthodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, Oral Pathology, Dental Implants, Pediatric Dentistry and Computerized Impressions

What You Can Earn

Available High School Academic Credits
At district request, students may earn:
  • English
  • Science
  • Health
Licensing/Industry-Based Certifications
Students have opportunities to earn:
  • 10-hour OSHA certification
  • Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED
  • HIPAA Certification
  • NYS Dental Assisting Exam Prep
  • Laser Safety Officer Certification

Work-Based Learning
  • Educational Tours
  • Guest Speakers
  • Career Fair
  • Co-op
  • Job Shadow

Where You Can Go

Career Opportunities
Minimal Requirement Beyond CTE
  • Dental Assistant

Additional Education and/or Experience
  • Dental Hygienist
  • Dental Office Manager
  • Lab Technician
  • Dentist
Postsecondary Pathways
Dual Enrollment
  • Monroe Community College
    • Foundations of Personal Health and Wellness (HED130)
Articulation Agreements
  • Broome Community College
  • SUNY Erie Community College

Intro Video

Getting Started

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.