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New York Dental Assisting School |
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that growth of dental assisting careers in New York and elsewhere is expected to be much higher than average. A career that involves working with the dental healthcare needs of the public is an exciting prospect. The Mandl School, College of Allied Health in New York City offers a continuing professional education program in dental assisting that will help you target your career dreams.
Where the Classroom Meets the Workplace
The dental assistant training program teaches students the classroom essentials of working in a dental office, then allows them to practice those skills on the job, through a 300-hour professional externship. A Dental Assisting Certificate equips students to understand and practice all aspects of oral care for patients. As life expectancy in the United States increases, and people retain their natural teeth throughout the life span, specialized dental care for all age ranges and needs is necessary. Upon completing the certificate program, Mandl students can work in a number of settings, from small dental clinics to large government hospitals.
The school curriculum is broken down into four six-week groups of courses, called modules. Students begin by learning basic human head and neck anatomy and important computer skills. They also become familiar with the dental tools and materials they will eventually use on the job. The next three modules focus on other essential aspects of a dental career, including infection prevention; law and ethics; and tooth and gum disease prevention.
Students will learn a wide range of skills, including:
- Preparing patients to see the dentist
- Assisting the dentist with back-of-office procedures
- Controlling infection spread through dental instruments
- Taking and processing dental x-rays
- Performing basic laboratory procedures
- Mixing or preparing dental materials
- Educating patients about good oral health and hygiene
Mandl's New York-based, fully equipped dental training facility allows students hands-on learning opportunities. The students encounter common procedures and on-the-job scenarios. They are able to use classroom theory in a career setting, and bring that experience to their externships. Through externships, dental assisting students become immersed in the daily tasks of working with dentists and patients. Eventually, Mandl students can bring all they have learned to their dental assisting careers
Career Opportunities for Dental Assistants
New York City is one of the largest cities in the world. Its millions of residents in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island will always need good dental care. Many dental offices like to hire dental assistants who can perform clerical duties, assist the dentist in seeing patients, and work in patients' mouths, as well. A job candidate with a wide range of skills and some real-world experience is always a more desirable job candidate.
Dental assistants perform a variety of tasks on the job. They do a lot of chair-side work, meaning that they help make patients comfortable and assist the dentist in treating patients. They make sure patients' mouths are clear and unobstructed so the dentist can work. They are vital in controlling infections. They may also mix dental materials, provide patients with anesthetics, and take/read dental x-rays. In the dental office, they assist with keeping patient records and scheduling appointments.Graduates may perform a number of ever-changing duties on the job, depending upon where they work. They might find employment in a small public dental clinic in Queens, or a posh private practice office in Manhattan. Or, they may work at a New York state or county hospital or health department. Some graduates may even opt to work in dental labs. No matter what career path a student chooses, an education in dental assisting is an essential first step.
For any questions regaurding our Dental Assisting Training Program, fill out our form and a Dental Assisting degree counselor will be in touch with you.
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