Fundamentals of Dental Assisting

An introductory course providing foundational dental assisting knowledge and skills for pre-dental students, volunteers, and individuals seeking entry-level experience in a dental setting.

This course includes self-study via required readings and trainings PLUS one weekend of in-person instruction.

Enrollment Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess competency in reading, writing, and speaking the English language to participate effectively in the course.

Mandatory Coursework Once Enrolled

The following mandatory requirements must be completed at least two weeks prior to the course start date:

• Check your email for the “Continuing Dental Education Receipt,” which contains instructions and a link to access the online learning platform.
  • If you do not receive your receipt, please check your spam folder. If you are still unable to locate it, contact our office for assistance.
• Complete the following on the online learning platform:
  • OSHA Video & Quiz
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Video & Quiz
  • HIPAA Video & Quiz
  • Intraoral Questionnaire
• Purchase and Read – Essentials of Dental Assisting, 6th or 7th Edition, Robinson and Bird, Elsevier (ISBN-10:0323764029) Chapters 1-7, 9-12, 14, 17, 19-20

All required coursework and activities must be completed at least two weeks prior to the course start date.

Participants may be dismissed from the course if they are found to lack the required experience or enrollment requirements.

The Continuing Dental Education Department and its Director reserve the right to grant, deny, withhold, or revoke certification when deemed necessary based on attendance, participation, performance, professionalism, or failure to meet program requirements.

Description

This introductory course is designed to provide participants with a foundation in basic dental assisting skills, terminology, and the clinical dental environment. The course is ideal for pre-dental students preparing to participate in the UF College of Dentistry Dental Clinic Volunteer Program, as well as individuals interested in gaining experience in an entry-level dental office position.

Through instruction and practical learning, participants will become familiar with essential infection control practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), commonly used dental instruments and equipment, and basic dental anatomy and terminology.

Note: This course is intended as a starting point for individuals seeking volunteer or entry-level experience in a dental setting. Completion of this course does not constitute comprehensive dental assistant training or indicate proficiency in all duties and responsibilities performed by a dental assistant.

Objectives

At the completion of the course participants will be able to:

• Demonstrate foundational knowledge applicable to an entry-level or volunteer dental assisting position.
• Describe basic infection control and aseptic techniques, including the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Identify commonly used dental instruments and equipment.
• Recognize and use basic dental anatomy and terminology.

Dress Code

Participants must wear either:

• Scrubs with closed-toe shoes, or
• A long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and closed-toe shoes

Faculty

Melissa Marquez, CDA, CRDH, BHSc

• “I declare that neither I nor any member of my family has a financial arrangement or affiliation with any corporate organization offering financial support or grant monies for this continuing dental education program greater than $999, nor do I have a financial interest greater than $1,000 in any commercial product(s) I will discuss in the presentation.”

Registration Information

Mandatory coursework must be completed two weeks before the start of class