Blue Cliff College

Dental Assisting Program

Dental assistants play a hands-on role in keeping a dental practice running smoothly. Responsibilities include preparing instruments, taking X-rays, educating patients on oral hygiene, managing records and appointments, and sanitizing equipment.

Program Length

Blue Cliff College's Dental Assisting diploma requires 958 hours (59 credits) to complete. Both daytime and evening class schedules are available:

• Daytime: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (11 months)
• Evening: Monday through Friday, 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm (15 months)

Occasional weekend sessions may also be required, held Saturday or Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

What the Program Covers

Students gain exposure to a wide range of subjects throughout the program, including:

• Anatomy, physiology, and oral histology
• Tooth form, structure, and preventive dentistry
• Dental health and nutrition
• Infection control and radiography
• Dental laboratory procedures and orthodontics
• Patient care and healthcare laws (OSHA and HIPAA)
• Dental office administration and management

Externship

Toward the end of the program, students complete an externship in a working dental office, gaining real-world experience under the guidance of licensed professionals.