Please click on the course title to see the course description.
Introduction to the Dental Profession
This course will examine professionalism and the legalities of all members of the dental team and will enable students to understand the expectations of the profession and the workplace. Students will consider their role on the dental team, identify other members of the team, develop an appreciation for being affiliated with a profession, and learn how to use a problem-solving approach to deal with conflicts that may arise within the dental team.
Anatomy and Physiology
Students are introduced to normal anatomy and physiology, beginning with a basic understanding of the workings of the human body. Students will be taught detailed anatomy of the head and neck, including bones of the cranium and face, temporomandibular joint, musculature, nerve supply and circulation, salivary structures, and anatomical features of the tongue.
Dental Sciences
Students will examine the normal development of the oral cavity and facial complex, as well as the teeth and attachment unit. In addition, students will learn about Black’s Cavity Classification, Tooth Numbering Systems and Angle’s Classification of Occlusion.
Health, Safety and Dental Materials
The first section of this course will introduce students to the proper handling of hazardous chemicals, employee safety, and waste management. In addition, students will learn how to avoid musculoskeletal disorders commonly associated with dental assisting. In the second section, students are provided with the fundamental knowledge of the biomaterials commonly used in the dental environment. Lectures will cover the physical and manipulative characteristics of the various dental products and the Laboratory Practical Procedures course (LABP) will prepare students to correctly manipulate these diverse materials.
Laboratory Practical Procedures
This course is an introduction to the techniques of Laboratory Procedures using the skills required to manipulate dental materials. Students will learn to create diagnostic models, whitening trays, sports guards, and custom impression trays.
Microbiology and Infection Control
Students will study the common microorganisms and pathogens, with an emphasis on those found in the oral cavity. Students will be able to practice effective infection-control procedures in the dental environment to prevent cross-contamination.
Medical and Dental Emergencies
This component provides students with the knowledge and skills that are required to recognize and prevent medical and dental emergencies within the dental office and will prepare students to assist the dentist in administering immediate care for the patient in the dental office environment.
Clinical Dentistry Theory
Students will be introduced to a wide variety of instruments and procedures used in dentistry. This component will assist students in developing the chairside working knowledge required to facilitate smooth interactions with the dentist to provide quality care for various procedures. Students will learn the theory and practical elements (CDEP) of restorative dentistry. Emphasis is placed on the Dental Assistant’s role in operative procedures, including chairside assisting and the implementation of the dental materials used in dentistry.
Clinical Dentistry Practical
Students will be introduced to a wide variety of instruments and procedures used in dentistry. This component will assist students in developing the chairside skills required to facilitate smooth interactions with the dentist to provide quality care for various procedures. Students will learn the practical elements of restorative dentistry. Emphasis is placed on the Dental Assistant’s role in operative procedures, including chairside assisting, the implementation of the dental materials used in dentistry, procedure setup, instrument transfer, maintaining aseptic techniques, and appropriate interaction with patients.
Oral Pathology
This course focuses on the developmental disturbances of the oral cavity and their clinical manifestations. The course will also cover the pathology that can affect these structures throughout the life cycle. Students will acquire the knowledge to recognize
normal and abnormal tissue anatomy as it relates to the role of the Dental Assistant.
Dental Radiography Theory
This theory-based course prepares Dental Assisting students to expose and process intra-oral and extra-oral dental radiographic images according to HARP standards. Students are introduced to basic physics and principles of radiography, safety precautions, quality assurance protocols, and the operation of the dental x-ray unit. Instruction will be provided on recognizing dental errors and solving problem situations, along with patient education and management. This course will provide students with the theoretical knowledge to apply during the clinical practice courses, DRP1 and DRP2. Successful completion of this course, along with DRP1 and DRP2, will permit the student to fully participate in prescribed radiographic procedures within the dental office upon graduation.
Dental Radiography Practical I
This hands-on course prepares students to expose, process and mount intra-oral and extra-oral dental radiographic images according to HARP standards. Students will review the basic physics and principles of radiography, safety precautions, and the operation of the dental x-ray unit. Within the dental lab setting, students will expose digital radiographic images using Paralleling techniques on radiography manikins under the direct supervision of the HARP Approved Clinical Instructor. Instruction will be provided on recognizing dental errors and solving problem situations, patient education, and management. Quality assurance procedures are emphasized, as well as observation of all safety protocols.
Dental Radiography Practical II
This hands-on course prepares students to expose, process and mount intra-oral and extra-oral dental radiographic images according to HARP standards. Students will review the basic physics and principles of radiography, safety precautions, and the operation of the dental x-ray unit. Within the dental lab setting, students will expose digital radiographic images using Bisecting techniques on radiography manikins under the direct supervision of the HARP Approved Clinical Instructor. Instruction will be provided on recognizing dental errors and solving problem situations, patient education, and management. Quality assurance procedures are emphasized, as well as observation of all safety protocols. Successful completion of this course, along with DRAT and DRP1, will permit the student to fully participate in prescribed radiographic procedures within the dental office upon graduation.
Practicum I
Students will apply their theoretical knowledge to the practical setting under the supervision of a Dentist and the dental team.
Mid Term Theory Examination
Students are evaluated on course materials from the beginning of the program until the midpoint of the program.
Business Office Management
This course will cover the key competencies related to office practices and administrative responsibilities of the Dental Assistant. This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills related to basic dental reception procedures. Topics will include the organization and management of patient records, appointment control, dental claims, financial procedures, and the utilization of dental management computer software.
Clinical Records
This course will introduce students to the various records and charts used in a dental office, as well as the importance of diagnostic records and treatment planning. Emphasis will be placed on charting and record keeping.
Clinical Specialties
Students will learn practical skills relating to the various specialties. The role of the Dental Assistant will be demonstrated in relation to these specialties.
Dental Specialties
This course is designed to give students an overview of the various dental specialties. Students will learn the theory in conjunction with the practical skills (CSPE) relating to the various disciplines. The role of the Dental Assistant will be examined in relation to these specialties. Lectures, reading assignments, and laboratory projects (CSPE) will provide a basic understanding of specialties and their unique requirements within the dental office. This information permits the student to understand the importance and unique requirements of the dental knowledge and equipment used in the specialty practice.
Prevention and Nutrition I
This course will provide an opportunity for students to learn about and discuss techniques and skills required to assist patients in the prevention and control of disease and injury to the oral tissues. Emphasis is placed on communication skills and methods of assessing, implementing, and evaluating individualized hygiene. Students will also be able to apply the knowledge of proper nutrition by referencing Canada’s Food Guide.
Prevention and Nutrition II
Students will apply the theory obtained in PDN1 in the clinical setting, demonstrating communication skills and methods of assessing, implementing, and evaluating individualized hygiene.
Pharmacology
This course will introduce students to the basic principles of oral medicine. Students will be provided with the terminology, medicinal use, physiological actions, adverse responses, and classifications of drugs encountered in the dental office or commonly prescribed for the patient.
Pre-Patient Care
This course will provide students with the skills required by an Intra Oral Dental Assistant to perform direct patient care. An ethical decision-making framework will enable students to utilize problem-solving skills to plan for and manage direct patient care and to respond to patient-specific needs as they relate to the clinical practice of an Intra Oral Dental Assistant. The in-house clinic will provide an environment for students to apply and adapt the knowledge and skills obtained.
Patient Care
This course will provide students with the skills required by an Intra Oral Dental Assistant to perform direct patient care. An ethical decision-making framework will enable the students to utilize problem-solving skills to plan for and manage direct patient care and to respond to patient-specific needs as they relate to the clinical practice of an Intra Oral Dental Assistant. The in-house clinic will provide an environment for students to apply and adapt the knowledge and skills obtained.
Communication and Professionalism for the Dental Professional
Students will study the mechanisms of human behaviour (including learning, memory, cognition, motivation, and emotion) in the dental environment and how client behaviour can be modified towards habits that foster improved oral health. Verbal and nonverbal communication techniques will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on using the communication skills learned to work as part of a team in planning and completing a presentation project. Job preparedness and professionalism will also be discussed, with an emphasis on preparing an appropriate resume and cover letter for the dental profession.
Final Theory Examination
Students are evaluated on course materials from the beginning of the program until the completion of program.
Practicum II
Students will apply their theoretical knowledge to the practical setting under the supervision of a Dentist and the dental team.