San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) offers an 11-month Dental Assisting program designed to provide hands-on training in both patient care and dental office operations, equipping students with the skills to work alongside dentists in California.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The SJVC Dental Assisting program covers essential knowledge and skills for dental assisting. Training focuses on:
- Patient Care: Learn to provide chair-side assistance, handle patient needs, and perform basic dental care tasks.
- Office and Laboratory Duties: Get prepared to manage dental office software, handle patient records, and ensure equipment sterilization.
- Specialized Procedures: Training includes taking dental impressions, exposing and processing X-rays, coronal polishing, and applying pit and fissure sealants.
This comprehensive program balances technical skills with patient interaction, creating a well-rounded foundation for entry-level roles in dental practices.
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Hands-On Learning and Real-World Preparation
SJVC emphasizes real-world experience through hands-on training, allowing students to develop practical skills in a supportive learning environment. This approach is intended to build confidence and proficiency in tasks that are essential for daily dental assisting, such as assisting with procedures and ensuring infection control. Students gain experience with tools and equipment they’ll use in actual dental offices, making the transition to the workforce smoother.
Program Length and Credential
Students can complete the program in 11 months, earning a Certificate of Completion. This timeframe is ideal for those who want to enter the workforce quickly without a long-term commitment. For graduates seeking further education, SJVC offers a Health Studies program that can lead to an Associate of Science Degree in 25 weeks. This additional credential is designed for those looking to expand their career options and deepen their education in healthcare.
Campus Locations
SJVC’s Dental Assisting program is available at five locations across California:
- Bakersfield
- Fresno
- Temecula
- Victor Valley (Hesperia)
- Visalia
These options provide flexibility for students throughout California, allowing them to select the campus that best fits their needs and proximity.
Prerequisites
There are some prerequisites to consider for enrollment and career advancement:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Necessary to begin the program.
- Certification Requirements: For those looking to become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in California, additional state-specific certifications are required post-graduation, including courses in coronal polishing, radiation safety, and infection control.
Completing the SJVC program covers several of these requirements, which can streamline the RDA certification process.
Financial Aid and Tuition
SJVC highlights affordable tuition that varies by campus. Financial assistance options are available, including student loans, grants, and scholarships for those who qualify. The school encourages potential students to use their Net Price Calculator to get an idea of costs and offers assistance from financial aid advisors who can help customize a financial plan to fit individual needs.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates are prepared to enter the field as entry-level dental assistants in various roles. Common tasks they can expect include:
- Chair-Side Assistance: Supporting dentists during procedures.
- X-Ray Processing: Taking and processing dental X-rays.
- Preventative Care Procedures: Administering coronal polishing and applying fluoride treatments.
- Infection Control: Ensuring tools and equipment are sterile and handling patient safety protocols.
These foundational skills are essential for starting a dental assisting career and are often sought after by employers in California.
Additional Certifications and Licensure
Upon completing the program, graduates receive several critical certifications, including:
- Dental Radiation Safety
- CPR
- Infection Control
- Dental Law and Ethics
Students who complete the coronal polishing and sealant requirements can apply for the Dental Board of California Examination to become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Note that while SJVC provides the necessary training, they do not guarantee licensure, as passing the exams depends on individual performance.
Pathways for Advancement: Health Studies Degree
For those interested in furthering their education, SJVC’s Health Studies Associate Degree is available to graduates of the Dental Assisting program. This degree can be completed in an additional 25 weeks and builds on the technical skills gained in dental assisting with general education courses. The degree can open doors for career advancement, making graduates more competitive in the healthcare job market.
Reasons to Consider This School
SJVC’s Dental Assisting program provides a fast-track option for students aiming to start a dental career in under a year, with the advantage of multiple California campuses for convenience. Hands-on training and state-approved curriculum elements, like radiology and infection control, make this program ideal for those aiming for certification and licensure. However, the program’s cost varies by location, which could be a drawback for some, so researching the exact campus cost and exploring financial aid options is recommended.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Varies by campus; check SJVC’s Net Price Calculator or speak with an advisor. |
| Program Duration | 11 months for the Certificate of Completion. |
| Class Schedules | Not specified; contact SJVC for details on schedules at each campus. |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting, Health Studies (Associate Degree for Dental Assisting graduates). |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications may be required for licensure. |
| Online Classes? | No, program is primarily hands-on with on-campus training. |
| Job Placement? | Not specified; contact SJVC for job placement assistance details. |
| Financial Aid Options | Available; includes student loans, grants, and scholarships for those who qualify. |
| Location | 9331 Mariposa Rd, Hesperia, CA 92344; also available at campuses in Bakersfield, Fresno, Temecula, Victor Valley, and Visalia. |
| Phone | (760) 948-1947 |
| Website | https://www.sjvc.edu/program/dental-assisting/ |
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