Program requires students to have valid Social Security number for x-ray and coronal polishing licenses and                                       to take the California Registered Dental Assistant Examination.

PROGRAM GOALS

1.    Prepare the dental assisting student for employment as a dental heath care professional.

2.    Prepare the dental assistant to be a safe and competent dental health care professional, by being in compliance with both Federal and California state standards and

    regulations.

3.    Prepare the dental assisting student with academic knowledge and skill competence to qualify for both the California and National Certification examinations.

4.    Provide curriculum that will offer opportunities for the dental assisting student to develop competency in basic practice management procedures.

5.    Certify students for performing radiography procedures within the State of California.

6.  Provide curriculum that will give the dental assisting student the knowledge and understanding of the laws, professional duties and ethical behaviors of the California

     Registered Dental Assistant as required by the State's Dental Practice Act and the Board of Dental Examiners.

DRESS CODE – GROOMING

 Our standards have been established in accordance with generally accepted standards of the dental profession as well as standards for infection control.  It must be clearly understood that all regulations regarding appearance of dental assisting students apply at all times that the uniform is being worn.  Should a student be found lacking in the grooming standards, the student will be asked to leave the clinical area until corrections have been made.

Uniform

A standard uniform is required for this class.  Students start wearing uniforms after the second week of classes.  The uniform includes:

 1.  White lab coats will be worn during clinical courses.

2.  Uniform scrub pants

 3.  All white uniform shoes and all white socks

4.  Colored scrub top (student’s choice of color – except no black)

5.  Name tags (will be ordered in class)

Hair, Make-up and Jewelry 

Hair must be clean and in conservative style, such that it is off the face and shoulders.  Moderate daytime make-up is appropriate.  Hands must be clean and well groomed with nails at an acceptable working length.  No acrylic nails.   Jewelry must be kept to a minimum.  It is suggested that a watch, wedding band (if applicable) and one small stud earring per ear is appropriate to wear in a professional atmosphere.  Large earrings, rings, chains, etc. are not considered appropriate in a professional atmosphere.  All visible piercing must be removed before starting first semester, including tongue piercing. Additionally, tattoos must be covered by clothing during internship.

Personal Hygiene

Attention to personal hygiene is essential for all persons in the health care fields.  A daily shower, deodorants, and fresh underwear are absolutely essential.  Odor of tobacco on hair, clothing, hands, or breath is not acceptable.  It is expected that dental assisting students will maintain good dental health care. If you smoke and it is noticeable, you may not be able to be placed in an internship site.  If the smell is noticeable to fellow classmates while working on/with you, it may be necessary for you to work harder to alleviate this problem.  Smoking for a dental assistant while on the job is considered to be “taboo” or unacceptable.  Most dentists will not want you to work in their offices because they are trying to persuade their patients to quit smoking for dental health reasons.   This is a good time to quit smoking.

Questions regarding Dress Code and Grooming, please contact the Dental Assisting Health Programs Specialist, Jan Burton.