Santa Cruz County Regional Occupational Program

The Santa Cruz County Regional Occupational Program (ROP) offers a dental assisting program that prepares students for a career in the dental field. The program provides comprehensive training in dental assisting techniques, laboratory procedures, and dental office management.

The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training, allowing students to gain practical experience in a dental office setting. Students learn about dental anatomy, dental materials, infection control, and sterilization techniques, among other topics. They also learn how to take and develop dental x-rays and assist with various dental procedures.

The dental assisting program at Santa Cruz County ROP is designed to be completed in one year, with students attending classes for approximately 3 hours per day, five days a week. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) examination.

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in dental offices, clinics, and hospitals. They may work as dental assistants, dental hygienists, or dental laboratory technicians, among other roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the dental assisting field is expected to grow by 11% from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.

Overall, the Santa Cruz County ROP dental assisting program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the dental field. It is a great option for those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare and helping others maintain good oral health.