Students enrolled in the program are prepared to function effectively as an integral member of the dental health team in the operation of a dental practice. Students in the dental programs learn the administrative procedures currently practiced in dental settings through instruction in the campus dental lab and through internships in private practices.

As chairside assistants, students are prepared to perform chairside assisting and laboratory procedures under the direction and supervision of the dentist. The students also fulfill general education requirements and courses in biomedical sciences, dental sciences, clinical sciences, and clinical practice.

Upon successful completion of the Dental Administrative Assistant program or the Dental Chairside Assistant program, students will be prepared to take the Dental Practice management component or the National Dental Assisting Certification examination administered by the Dental Assistant National Board.

Goals

In accordance with the mission and goals of Briarwood College and the Accreditation Standards for Dental Assisting Education Programs, the Briarwood College Dental Assistant program provides the following:

• Preparation to perform chairside assisting and related office and laboratory procedures under the direction and supervision of the dentist
• An educational foundation in general education, biomedical sciences, dental sciences, clinical sciences, and clinical practice
• Preparation for national dental assisting certification and applicable state credentialing
• Preparation for ethical and professional practice that reflect the values, respect, and integrity of the dental assisting profession
• Preparation for lifelong learning for personal and professional enrichment.

Associate in Applied Science Degree Programs

• Dental Administrative Assistant

One-Year Certificates

• Dental Chairside Assistant

Accreditation

The Dental Administrative Assistant and Dental Chairside Assistant programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation which is a special accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education.