Dental Careers
Dental Careers Overview
This course introduces students to foundational pre-clinical dental procedures, progressing into an in-depth study of the head, neck, and oral cavity anatomy using accurate and professional dental terminology.
Throughout the course, students will engage in hands-on learning experiences such as:
- Chairside dental assisting
- Preparing and sterilizing instruments and materials
- Taking dental impressions
- And more real-world clinical skills
These activities help students build essential competencies for success in dental assisting and related healthcare fields.
- Principles of Dental Careers
- Dental Careers Fundamentals
- Advanced Dental Careers
- Dental Careers Capstone
Next Level Programs of Study Course #7315
Principles of Dental Careers will provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career in the dental field. A focus will be placed on the role of the modern dental assistant and will cover key pre-clinical procedures and beginning dental terminology.
Next Level Programs of Study Course #7316
Dental Careers Fundamentals will build upon the knowledge and skills in the principles course. Students will understand and practice beginning chairside functions of the dental assistant along with a focus on the anatomy and physiology of the head, neck, and oral cavity. Students will also study tooth anatomy, physiology, and morphology.
Next Level Programs of Study Course #7317
Advanced Dental Careers will build upon the knowledge and skills developed in the first two courses. Students will study more advanced chairside assisting functions along with advanced infection control techniques. Additionally, students will explore preventive dentistry practices and dental emergencies.
Next Level Programs of Study Course #7318
Dental Careers Capstone will provide the opportunity for increased skill development in clinical support through work-based learning experiences. Students will also prepare for Radiation, Health, and Safety which is third and final part of the NELDA certification.
This course may be offered to Juniors who complete curriculum in an exemplary fashion and demonstrate ability to work as a dental assistant. It is NOT guaranteed.
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(Radiation, Health, & Safety) |
Work-Based Learning
Following the first grading period, all Dental Careers Capstone students will report to a dental office 4 out of 5 days. Students will intern for a minimum of 2 hours each day (8 hours per week). These hours are completed during class time conveniently located near the student's home/home school.
Before beginning any internship, students meet with Ms. Ford, College and Career Pathway Coordinator, to complete the required onboarding process. This includes:
- Internship Agreement
- Parent/Guardian Consent Form
- Training Plan
All required documentation is managed digitally through JobReady360, an online platform and mobile app that allows students, parents, and supervisor to easily track and submit progress and paperwork.
Work-Based Learning is a critical component of the student's career preparation, helping them build professional skills and gain real-world experience in their chosen field.
It is the policy of the Area Career Center (ACC) not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in its career and technical education programs, services, and activities, including employment policies and practices. The ACC will take steps to assure that the lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the ACC's career and technical education programs. For information regarding nondiscrimination policies, please contact: LaTerra Smith, TitleIX/Section 504 Coordinator, lrsmith@hammond.k12.in.us
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