Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant program at Milan Institute in Palm Desert equips students with practical skills and knowledge for entry-level positions in dental offices. With a hands-on approach, this 36-week program covers both administrative and clinical responsibilities essential to dental assisting.
Program Overview
The Milan Institute’s Dental Assistant program trains students in various aspects of dental care, including assisting during patient exams, taking x-rays, and managing office records. The curriculum prepares students to handle a range of tasks, from chairside assistance to scheduling appointments, underlining the importance of both clinical and administrative skills in a dental setting. By learning essential procedures, such as instrument handling, suction use, and patient care, students gain the comprehensive skills needed to support dentists in their daily operations.
Key Skills and Coursework
Students in this program cover several core areas:
- Administrative Procedures: Learning to manage appointments, inventory, dental records, and office communication while understanding relevant legal standards and HIPAA compliance.
- Oral Health and Periodontics: An introduction to preventive dental care, patient education, and periodontics to help maintain oral hygiene and health.
- Anatomy & Morphology: Instruction on head and neck anatomy, focusing on the structure and function of teeth, oral tissues, and proper chairside techniques.
- Dental Science: Understanding disease transmission, OSHA regulations, emergency protocols, and sterilization practices in a dental office.
Hands-On Training
A notable aspect of this program is the externship requirement, where students complete practical training at an off-site dental facility. This experience offers students the chance to apply their skills in a real-world setting, work with dental professionals, and build industry connections. The externship allows students to gain firsthand experience, preparing them to transition smoothly into a professional dental role.
Specialized Areas of Study
The curriculum also introduces students to specialized fields, such as:
- Dental Radiology: Safe operation of x-ray equipment and radiation safety protocols.
- Laboratory Procedures: Working with impression materials, prosthetics, and bleaching techniques.
- Dental Specialties: Exposure to areas like Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Orthodontics, and Pediatric Dentistry, including CPR and First Aid certification.
Real-World Experience and Certification
The Milan Institute’s program emphasizes real-world skills through both coursework and externships. Students receive training in practical dental procedures, allowing them to work with patients and prepare for the responsibilities of a dental assistant. With a focus on patient care, communication, and technical knowledge, graduates leave equipped for entry-level dental assisting positions, including certification opportunities like CPR.
Prerequisites
To enroll in the Milan Institute Dental Assistant program, applicants typically need to:
- Be at least 18 years of age or hold a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete an admissions application, which may include an interview with the admissions team.
No prior experience in dental assisting is required, making this program suitable for beginners interested in the field.
Why Milan Institute?
The Milan Institute offers a structured, skill-focused Dental Assistant program with a blend of classroom learning and hands-on externship experience. This program is ideal for individuals seeking a fast-tracked entry into dental assisting with comprehensive training in both patient care and office management. While the program is extensive, the 36-week duration allows for relatively quick career entry, though out-of-district fees apply for some students.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | Free for high school students in certain districts; fee for out-of-district students |
| Program Duration | 36 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Contact school for specific schedules; includes hands-on externship |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assistant training |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED; 18+ or current high school senior in approved districts |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Yes, assistance provided |
| Financial Aid Options | Available for eligible students |
| Location | 75-030 Gerald Ford Drive, Ste 203, Palm Desert, CA 92211 |
| Phone | 760-565-4988 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | milaninstitute.edu |