Dental Assisting- CDI

Program Courses

Dental Assisting Practice, Ethics and Jurisprudence [BC-

DAPEJ]

This course provides an overview and realistic introduction to the Dental Assisting
profession and program specific expectations and requirements will be provided.
Ethical and legal issues related to the practice of dentistry and dental assisting are
discussed. Case situations are evaluated to determine appropriate management in
accordance with the principles of dental ethics and jurisprudence. The
professionalism and legalities of all members of the dental team will be discussed in
detail, it will enable the student to understand the expectations of the profession
and the workplace. Students will consider their role in the dental team, identify other
members of the team, develop an appreciation for being affiliated with a profession
and learn how to use a problem-solving approach to deal with conflicts that may
arise within the dental team. An overview of the history of dentistry will be provided
at this time. The course introduces the students to the learning environment of the
CDI campus and is intended to provide all students with a common place to begin the
dental assisting program. Defined and published policies and procedures unique to
the CDI Dental Assisting Program will be discussed. Overview of the Dental Assisting
Program History of Dentistry Members of the Dental Team Responsibilities of the
Dental Team Members Professional Organization Dental Ethics Dentistry and the Law
Dental Terminology

Dental Assisting Foundation Science [BC-DAFST]

Students are provided with an understanding of normal anatomy and physiology
beginning with an introduction to the human body and its functions. Students will
learn detailed anatomy of the head, neck, and will examine the normal development
of the oral cavity and facial complex, teeth, and the attachment unit. This segment
focuses on the developmental disturbances, their clinical manifestations associated
with the development of the oral cavity and the pathology that can affect these
structures throughout the life cycle. Students will acquire the knowledge to recognize
normal and abnormal tissue anatomy as it relates to the role of the dental assistant.
Lectures, reading assignments will provide a basic understanding of oral disease seen
in the office. This information permits the student to understand the importance of
identifying normal and abnormal oral developments. Body Direction and Planes
Structural Units Body Regions Body Systems Oral Embryology and Histology
Developmental Disturbances Oral Pathology Tooth Morphology, Nomenclature and
Identification Facial and Intra-Oral Landmarks General Anatomy of the Tooth and
Periodontium Anatomy of Head and Neck Numbering Systems Blacks Cavity
Identification.

Dental Emergency Procedures [BC-DEMGP]

This component provides students with the knowledge and skills that are required to
recognize and prevent medical and dental emergencies within the dental office. It
will prepare students to assist the dentist in administering immediate care for the
client in the dental office environment. Students also participate in CPR/First Aid
training and psychological first aid. Recognition of Medical Emergencies Preventing
Medical Emergencies Emergency Equipment Emergency Responses Cardio
Pulmonary Resuscitation – CPR Level C First Aid Psychological First Aid

Charting and Records Management [DOA130]

This section will provide students with a level of knowledge and skill to acquire
patient information, obtain vital signs, and assist the dentist in the diagnostic stages
of the dental care provided. Treatment planning vital to the dental assisting practice
will be covered in this course. Students will acquire knowledge in dental record
management in accordance to the provincial dental regulatory guidelines. Electronic
and paper-based dental charting will be introduced and will be practice throughout
the duration of the program. Maintenance of Clinical Records Treatment Planning,
Vital Signs Medical Dental Histories Dental Charting Patient Records Standard Criteria
for Record Keeping Recording the Dental Exam

Oral Microbiology, Infection Control and Safety [BC-OMICS]

This course also introduces students to the proper handling of hazardous chemicals,
employee safety, and waste management. In addition, students will learn how to
avoid musculoskeletal disorders commonly associated with dental assisting. Students
will study the common microorganisms and pathogens with emphasis placed on
those found in the oral cavity. Students will acquire the knowledge to recognize
normal and abnormal tissue anatomy as it relates to the role of the dental assistant.
Students will learn about the pathology that can affect the structures of the oral
cavity throughout the life cycle This course will provide students with the
prerequisite knowledge required to practice effective infection control procedures in
the dental environment and to prevent cross-contamination in accordance to
published regulatory agency guidelines. Microbiology Immunology Diseases of the
Oral Tissue Dental Caries, Periodontal Disease Methods of Disease Transmission
Blood-Borne Pathogens Ergonomics WHMIS/GHS Associations and Organizations
Infection Control Guidelines Dental Office Waste Management Asepsis Sterilization;
Disinfection

Dental Materials and Laboratory Procedures [BC-DMLPT]

Dental clinical and laboratory procedures require the use of dental materials which
possess different properties and characteristics. This course will provide the student
with the fundamental knowledge on the properties and characteristics of bio-
materials commonly used in the dental office environment, as well as selected
materials used in the dental laboratory. This knowledge will assist the student in
understanding the rationale behind the use of particular materials in various clinical
situations. This area of study provides students with the fundamental knowledge of
the bio-materials commonly used in the dental environment. Lectures will cover the
physical and manipulative characteristics of the various dental products. The
laboratory segment prepares students to correctly manipulate these diverse
materials. Structure and Properties of Dental Materials Dental materials and the Oral
Environment Restorative and Aesthetic Dental Materials Dental Cements, Liners,
Bases and Bonding Systems Impression Materials Gypsum Products Pouring and
Trimming of Models Fabrication of Custom Trays Waxes Acrylic Material, Precious
Metals CAD / CAM procedures.

Dental Radiography Theory [BC-RD1E]

This course is first of the two-part course of the Dental Radiography Module. The
students are introduced to basic physics and principles of radiography, safety
precautions and the operation of the dental x-ray unit. Instructions will be provided
on recognizing dental radiographic errors and solving problems, patient education
and management. The purpose of this course is to help the student develop an
understanding of the basic principles of clinical dental radiography. Current
radiographic techniques will be covered with the emphasis being on safe and
effective use of x-rays in the dental practice. Throughout the course and program,
learning activities are provided to integrate theoretical information and clinical
practice. Upon completion, the student will gain the knowledge required for them to
apply them in dental clinical practice. Basic Principles of Radiation Dental X-Ray
Machine ALARA concept Generation of an X-Ray Biological Effects of Ionizing
Radiation Radiographic Techniques Radiographic Images Digital Radiography Image
Production Techniques Anatomical Landmarks and Mounting of X-Rays Radiographic
Faults and Artifacts Aseptic Techniques Provincial/Federal Guidelines Quality
Assurance
Dental Assisting Clinical Practice [BC-DACP1]
This course provides the clinical and practical applications to the chairside dental
assisting practice. Students practice and apply the skills acquired from the theoretical
component courses. Students are expected to demonstrate mastery of the core
competencies associated with the didactic courses. Students are assessed on their
practical clinical and laboratory skills. Infection Control and Safety practices Safe
handling of dental materials and equipment Dental Laboratory Practices.

Mid-Term Exam [BC-MDTE]

Students are assessed on the theoretical knowledge covered up to the mid point of
the Phase 1 of the program

Pharmacology and Pain Management [BC-DPHPC]

This course introduces students to the basic principles of pharmacology. Students are
provided with the terminology, medicinal use, physiological actions, adverse
responses and classifications of drugs encountered in the dental office or commonly
prescribed to patients. Students learn basic terminology, medicinal use, physiological
actions, adverse responses, and classifications of drugs encountered in the dental
office or commonly prescribed for patients Lectures, reading assignments and
laboratory projects will provide a basic understanding of Pharmacology used in the
dental office and an overview of drugs used in the dental office. Administration of
Medication Schedule of Drugs, Prescription Writing Classification of Drugs Drug
Reference Material Anesthesia and Pain Control Sedation.

Dental Radiography Practical [BC-RD2E]

This course prepares the students to take and process intraoral and extra-oral dental
radiographs according to Safety Code 30 standards. The students are introduced to
basic physics and principles of radiography, safety precautions and the operation of
the dental x-ray unit. Students will expose dental radiographs using bisecting angle
and paralleling techniques. Instruction will be provided on recognizing dental
radiographic errors and solving problems, patient education and management.
Current radiographic techniques will be covered with the emphasis being on safe and
effective use of x-rays in the dental practice. Paralleling Technique Bisecting
Technique Digital Radiography Aseptic Technique
Operative Dentistry [BC-ODENT]
Students will be introduced to a wide variety of instruments and procedures used in
dentistry. This component will assist students in developing the knowledge and
recognizing the importance of smooth interaction with the dentist providing quality
care while working chairside for various procedures. Students will learn the theory
elements of restorative dentistry. Emphasis is placed on the dental assistant's role in
operative procedures. It includes chairside assisting, as well as the implementation of
the dental materials used in dentistry. The course will also cover identifying
challenges, assessing needs and modifying treatment to accommodate medically and
physically compromised patients. Principles of Cavity Preparation Moisture Control
Instrument Identification Instrumentation; Care of Instruments; Sterilization Clinical
Equipment Team Dentistry; Operating Zones; Team Positioning Identifying Name and
Function of Dental Instruments Assisting in all aspects of four-handed and six-handed
dentistry Assisting with medically and physically compromised patient

Preventive Dentistry and Nutrition [BC-PDNE]

This section will also provide fundamental theories of learning and teaching and will
give the student the opportunity to apply this knowledge in the dental clinic setting.
Importance is placed on communication skills and methods of assessing,
implementing, and evaluating individualized hygiene. Client Education Sealants,
Fluoride Oral Hygiene Methods Dental Health Education Nutrition.

Practice Management [BC-PMGNT]

This segment will cover the key competencies related to office practices and
administrative responsibilities of the dental assistant. This course will provide
students with the knowledge and skills related to basic dental reception procedures.
Topics will include the organization and management of patient records,
appointment control, dental claims, financial procedures, and the utilization of dental
management computer software. Reception Procedures Maintenance of Clinical
Records Dental Insurance Forms Appointment Control Basic Bookkeeping –
General, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Petty Cash, Payroll, and
Documentation Fee Management Computerized Appointment Scheduling, Insurance
Forms, and Accounts Receivable

Dental Specialties [BC-DSPLS]

This segment is designed to give students an overview of the various dental
specialties. Students will learn the theory and practical skills relating to the various
disciplines. The roles of the dental assistant will be examined in relation to these
specialties. Endodontics Periodontics Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Pediatric
Dentistry Orthodontics, Fixed Prosthodontics and Removable Prosthesis.
Dental Assisting Clinical Practice [BC-DACP2]
This course provides the clinical and practical applications to the chairside dental
assisting practice. Students practice and apply the skills acquired from the theoretical
component courses. Students are expected to demonstrate mastery of the core
competencies associated with the didactic courses. Students are assessed on their
practical clinical and laboratory skills. Infection Control and Safety practices Safe
handling of dental materials and equipment Dental Laboratory Practices Isolation
Techniques Moisture Control Four-handed dentistry Dental Restorative Procedure Set
Up

Final Theory Exam [BC-FTEE]

Students are assessed on the theoretical knowledge from Term 1 and Term 2 of the
program.

Final Clinical Practical / Laboratory Exam [BC-FTPE]

Students are assessed on their practical clinical and laboratory skills.

Mandatory Outside Practical (Level I) [BC-DAPRC1]

This program includes a practicum component consisting of 75 hours working in
private practice with a dentist during Phase I of the program. This practicum work
experience is a mandatory diploma requirement and the dentist does not pay for the
services of the student during the practicum.

Open Clinic and Workshop [BC-OCWSP]

The time allocated for this course will be utilized for open clinics, remediation
sessions, workshops, presentations and conferences and field trips. Open clinics will
provide additional time for students to practice clinical and laboratory skills of their
choice and to have any remediation as deemed necessary. Peer feedback is
recommended during open clinics to encourage collaboration amongst the students.
Attendance to workshops, presentations and conferences and field trips will provide
the students with added learning opportunities other than those offered within the
school environment.

Introduction to Computers [CA-ITC4]

This course is a broad-based introduction to using a personal computer. It teaches
the fundamentals of an operating system and the most popular application software
including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. You will also learn about
the Internet, Web browsers, electronic mail and antivirus software. The course is
based on the Windows 10 operating system, Microsoft Office 2016 and a variety of
popular software programs for the Internet-related and security-related applications.

Student Success Strategies [BC-SSSD]

Students will gain a better understanding of themselves through an exploration of
their personal attributes, transferable skills and learning styles. This course will
introduce techniques for time, conflict, and stress management and develop
interpersonal communication skills. Fundamental study and motivation skills will be
covered, preparing students to excel in their program of choice. Students will also
prepare a professional resume and learn how to write effective cover letters.

Career & Employment Strategies [CES4]

This course looks at the planning, preparation, execution, and follow-up stages of an
interview: how people find jobs; employer expectations; presenting an enthusiastic
attitude; focusing on the right job; transferable skills; the job interview; effective
resume preparation; cover and thank you letters; effective telemarketing; tapping the
hidden job market; handling objections; job search management; self-confidence and
self-esteem building; mock interviews (video-taped); and individual counselling and
coaching.

Communication, Diversity and Cultural Awareness [BC-CDCA]

A specially designed course that places emphasis on communication and
interpersonal skills to promote diversity and cultural awareness. The importance of
the communication and human relations is explored through case studies and role
playing. Students learn relevant techniques of human behaviour and how they may
be applied to communication and interpersonal skills. Learning basic communication
skills especially relating to the healthcare field will assist the student in dealing with
the workplace environments and patients. Understanding cultural differences and
encouraging diversity can add a new dimension and safer patient healthcare delivery
to the healthcare settings. Emphasis on language rights, to preserve and honour
diverse cultural heritages, promote social equality and justice through recognition of
individual differences is also discussed. The aim of the course is to raise awareness of
culture and diversity, and provide culture general frameworks and tools on
approaches to, tactics in and etiquette surrounding working and communicating
across cultures. Students also participate in Psychological First Aid training.
Communication Styles Barriers to Communication Cultural Awareness Diversity
Intercultural Communication Legislative Framework Human Rights Act
Intra-Oral Dental Assisting Principles and Theory [BC-IODPT]
This course will provide students with the theory required by a Certified Dental
Assistant to perform direct patient care. An ethical decision-making framework will
enable students to utilize problem-solving skills to plan for and manage direct patient
care and to respond to patient-specific needs as they relate to the clinical practice of
a Certified Dental Assistant. Polishing Clinical Crowns of Teeth with Rubber Cup or
Brush and Polishing Pastes Applying Topical Anticariogenic Agents Taking Study
Model Impressions Application and Removal of Dental Dam Applying Fissure Sealants
Applying Topical Anaesthetics Placing and Removing Matrices and Wedges Applying
Treatment Liners in Teeth without Pulpal Involvement Evaluating Dietary Habits and
Providing Nutritional Counselling as it Pertains to Dentistry Coronal Whitening
Application Removing Sutures Apply Acid Etch and Cavity Bonding Applying
Desensitizing Agents Removing Periodontal Dressings Performing Pulp Vitality Tests
using Electric Pulp Tester and Thermal Pulp Tester Removing Retraction Cord

Intra-Oral Dental Assisting Practice [BC-IODAP]

This course provides the clinical and practical applications of the duties required by a
Certified Dental Assisting to perform. to the chairside dental assisting practice.
Students are expected to demonstrate mastery of the regulated skills on manikin,
peer and direct patient care. Students are required to work on patients for evaluation
under the supervision of dental professional in CDI dental facilities.

Mandatory Outside Practical (Level II) [BC-IODAPR]

This program includes a practicum component consisting of 100 hours working in
private practice with a dentist during Phase 2 of the program. This practicum work
experience is a mandatory diploma requirement and the dentist does not pay for the
services of the student during the practicum.

Program Comprehensive Exam [BC-COMPX]

The Program Comprehensive Exam is used to assess the students on the theoretical
components covered in the Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Dental Assisting program.