The student will be introduced to the fundamentals of working in a dental office as a chair-side dental assistant. Concepts and techniques of basic equipment, four-handed dentistry, oral evacuation, instrument identification, and proper use are discussed. Introduction to dental specialties are discussed. Oral examination, charting, medical and dental histories, sterilization, lab, and infection control procedures are emphasized. You are encouraged to complete Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for the Health Care Provider (or ALH 1130 - Basic Life Support Training for Healthcare Provider) prior to entry to the Dental Assisting program. However, you can take it the first semester. Note: ALH 1130 will be waived for anyone with proof of American Heart Association Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support, see Academic Advising. Upon completion of this short-term certificate the graduate will be eligible to sit for the American Medical Technologies RDA examination. Note: For students under age 18 there may be restrictions on participating in certain Health Sciences programs. Any student under age 18 must contact the program director/department chair to discuss whether he or she may enroll.