Catawba Valley Community College

The Dental Assistant program at Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful dental assistants. This program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in a dental office setting, giving students a well-rounded education that prepares them for real-world experiences.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), which ensures that students receive a high-quality education that meets national standards. Additionally, the program is approved by the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners, which allows graduates to take the Dental Assisting National Board Examination and become licensed dental assistants in the state of North Carolina.

The Dental Assistant program at CVCC covers a wide range of topics, including dental anatomy, oral pathology, dental materials, dental radiology, and dental office management. Students learn how to assist dentists during procedures, take dental impressions, sterilize equipment, and perform other important tasks.

The program consists of two semesters, with a total of 38 credit hours. Students must maintain a grade point average of 2.0 or higher to remain in the program. Graduates of the program receive a diploma in Dental Assisting.

CVCC also offers a Dental Hygiene program, which is a two-year program that prepares students to become licensed dental hygienists. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience, giving students the knowledge and skills necessary to perform dental hygiene procedures such as teeth cleaning, taking dental x-rays, and educating patients on oral hygiene.

In conclusion, the Dental Assistant program at Catawba Valley Community College provides students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for successful careers in the dental industry. With a focus on hands-on training and real-world experiences, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful dental assistants.