College of Southern Maryland

The College of Southern Maryland offers a Dental Assistant Program that prepares students for a career as a dental assistant. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist dentists in a variety of procedures.

The program consists of 49 credit hours of coursework, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Students will learn about dental anatomy, oral pathology, dental materials, infection control, and dental radiography. They will also receive training in chairside assisting, dental office management, and patient communication.

In addition to the coursework, students will complete a clinical externship where they will gain real-world experience in a dental office. This externship allows students to apply the skills they have learned in the classroom to real-life situations.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination and become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). They may also pursue additional certification in expanded functions such as coronal polishing, sealant placement, and orthodontic assisting.

Overall, the Dental Assistant Program at the College of Southern Maryland provides students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for a rewarding career in the dental field.