DEN 151 Introductory Concepts in Dental Assisting

Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Provides a basic study of the dental assistant’s role with emphasis on terminology, instruments and equipment, professional regimen, chairside techniques and patient communication. Emphasizes the qualifications necessary for success in the dental assistant field.

Prerequisite: Enrollment in the Dental Assisting program.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrate understanding of dental terminology.
Demonstrate understanding of dental history.
Identify legal and ethical concepts and issues related to dentistry.
Professional Organizations
Identify the roles and qualifications of the dental team members, including dental specialties.
Demonstrate appropriate chairside techniques and dental instrumentation.
Demonstrate skill in documenting chairside patient treatment.
Demonstrates appropriate professional behaviors.
Communicates effectively with dental team, peers, faculty, and patients.

Content Outline

Introduction
- Course Information and Policies
- Course Objectives
The Dental Profession
- Dental Terminology
- History of Dentistry
  - Early beginnings
  - Modern dentistry
- Ethics and Jurisprudence
  - Professional attitude
  - Ethical/non-ethical conduct
  - State dental practice act
- The Dental Health Team
  - Qualifications
  - Educational requirements
  - Areas of service
  - Responsibilities
  - Professional conduct
  - Dental specialties
- Professional Organizations
- Chairside Techniques
  - Team positioning/patient positioning
  - Operatory light adjustment
  - Mirror/explorer transfer
  - Topical anesthetic preparation, transfer, and placement
  - Anesthetic syringe assembly and transfer
  - Use of air/water syringe
  - Oral evacuation techniques
  - Instrument identification, use, and transfer
  - Restorative tray set-ups
  - Handpiece identification and use
  - Bur identification and use
- Patient Records
  - Treatment planning and recording
Professional Development
- Exercise and Diet
- Peer Interaction/Teamwork
- Professional Appearance
  - Professional attire
  - Personal hygiene
  - Oral hygiene
Patient Management
- Psychological Factors
- Techniques for Effective Patient Management
- Direct Patient Care