DENTL 101 - Chairside Assisting

2.0 Credits
Preclinical instruction in chairside dental assisting. Covers ergonomics, dental equipment, instrument identification, tray setups, and patient data collection. Introduces preventive dentistry and vital signs proficiency, emphasizing four-handed dentistry and patient management.
Course-level Learning Objectives (CLOs)
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Exhibit professional patient management by efficiently seating and dismissing patients, delivering patient education, and providing pre- and post-operative instructions as prescribed by the dentist.
2. Demonstrate techniques for taking and reading vital signs, and identify normal vs abnormal readings.
3. Assist with and/or perform dental charting while maintaining accurate patient treatment records
4. Apply correct patient, operator, and assistant chair positioning using the clock method to ensure proper body ergonomics and promote efficiency during procedures.
6. Assist with dental procedures and demonstrate proficiency in four-handed chairside assisting techniques.
7. Identify instruments, supplies, equipment, and tray set ups for restorative specific dental procedures.
8. Demonstrate knowledge of dental equipment, anesthetics, hand and rotary instruments while performing chairside techniques.
9. Achieve proficiency in selecting and using abrasive agents to effectively polish coronal surfaces.
10. Maintain a clear field of vision while working in the oral cavity.

Course Typically Offered
Winter