This certificate program provides Level I Dental Assistants with the skills to perform the intraoral duties of a Level II Dental Assistant as recognized by the Canadian Dental Assistants Association and the National Dental Assisting Examining Board. The self-study package examines the etiology of dental disease and its prevention, as well as, the rationale and techniques for performing the following: application and removal of dental dams; alginate impressions for study models; the use, care, and maintenance of whitening trays; placement of liners, bases, matrices, and wedges; coronal polishing of teeth; application of topical anesthetic, pit and fissure sealants, anticariogenic agents, and desensitizing agents.

Upon successful completion of a comprehensive examination, students are eligible to enrol in the laboratory and clinical component which takes place at the Woodroffe Campus. Provision of clinical services to clients takes place after practising and refining intraoral skills on manikins and classmates.

Graduates must successfully complete a National Dental Assistant Examination to be eligible to practise Level II skills in Ontario.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Possess good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Are self-directed in a team environment.
• Are organized and work well under tight time constraints.