Washington Network for Innovative Careers

The Dental Assistant Washington Network for Innovative Careers (DAWN) program is a training program for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career as a dental assistant. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a dental assistant in a variety of settings.

The DAWN program is offered through community and technical colleges throughout Washington state. The program typically takes one year to complete and includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. Students will learn about dental anatomy, dental procedures, infection control, dental materials, and patient communication. They will also learn about the legal and ethical issues that pertain to dental assisting.

One of the unique aspects of the DAWN program is its emphasis on interprofessional education. Students will work closely with dental hygiene and dental assisting students, as well as with faculty and staff from other healthcare programs. This interdisciplinary approach helps students to develop a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of other healthcare providers, and prepares them for collaborative practice in a variety of healthcare settings.

Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification exam, which is recognized by the state of Washington. Certification is not required to work as a dental assistant in Washington, but it is preferred by many employers.

Overall, the DAWN program is an excellent option for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in dental assisting. With its emphasis on interprofessional education, clinical practice, and certification, the program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this growing field.