Dental Assistant Program
Orange Coast College (OCC) offers a two-semester Registered Dental Assisting (RDA) Program, designed to equip students with both clinical skills and technical knowledge required in dental care. With access to advanced dental equipment and 300 hours of clinical training, OCC’s program provides a solid foundation for students preparing for RDA certification and a career in dental assisting.
Program Overview
The OCC Dental Assisting Program prepares students to perform a wide range of responsibilities, from patient care to dental office management. Training includes chairside assisting, radiology, coronal polishing, and infection control, using the latest dental technology. Students also complete clinical rotations at local dental offices, gaining practical experience in a real-world environment.
Curriculum and Training
The program offers both academic and clinical courses covering essential skills for dental assistants:
- Chairside Assisting: Provides students with hands-on training in assisting dentists during procedures.
- Dental Radiology: Covers safe techniques for taking and developing dental X-rays.
- Preventive Therapy: Instructs students on promoting and maintaining patient oral health.
- Office Management: Teaches students basic administrative tasks necessary for managing a dental office.
OCC’s training ensures students graduate with a diverse skill set, ready to assist in various settings such as general dentistry, orthodontics, and pediatric dentistry.
Prerequisites
Applicants to OCC’s Dental Assisting Program must meet the following prerequisites:
- Completion of Allied Health A010 or ALH 012 (Health Occupations)
- Completion of Allied Health A111 (Medical Terminology)
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Criminal background and drug screening
All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of “C” or better before program entry.
Clinical Training and Certification
The program includes 300 hours of clinical training, during which students work in local dental offices. Graduates receive certifications in Radiation Safety, Coronal Polish, Pit and Fissure Sealants, and CPR. Additionally, they are eligible to sit for the RDA examination through the Dental Board of California.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
The approximate cost for OCC’s program is $3,850, excluding additional fees for textbooks, supplies, and other expenses. OCC offers various financial aid options, including grants and scholarships, for eligible students.
Program Format and Admission Process
The program runs over two consecutive semesters, starting each fall, with classes scheduled on campus. Admission is based on a first-come, first-served basis, with applications accepted following completion of prerequisite courses. Prospective students should be prepared to complete all fall semester courses concurrently, as well as all spring courses in sequence.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of OCC’s Dental Assisting Program can find opportunities in private practices, specialty dental clinics, and healthcare organizations. The program also provides a pathway for further specialization, including potential certifications in advanced dental assisting functions.
Safety Protocols and Infection Control
OCC emphasizes safety through rigorous training in infection control and bloodborne pathogen prevention. Students are provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) and are instructed in strict safety protocols, preparing them for safe practices in clinical environments.
Why Orange Coast College?
OCC’s Dental Assisting Program stands out for its extensive hands-on training, affordable tuition, and structured pathway to RDA certification. The program’s emphasis on real-world clinical experience and access to modern dental facilities make it a practical choice for aspiring dental assistants. However, with admission limited and prerequisites required, early application and preparation are essential to secure a spot in this sought-after program.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | Approx. $3,850 for tuition; additional fees for textbooks and supplies |
| Program Duration | 2 semesters |
| Class Schedules | Full-time, on-campus |
| Classes Offered | Chairside Assisting, Radiology, Preventive Therapy, Office Management, Coronal Polish |
| Admission Requirements | Allied Health A010/ALH 012, Allied Health A111, high school diploma or equivalent, background check required |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Information not provided |
| Financial Aid Options | Yes, including grants and scholarships for eligible students |
| Location | 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 |
| Phone | (714) 432-5565 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://orangecoastcollege.edu/academics/consumer-health/allied-health/dental-assisting/index.html |