According to the Maryland Department of Labor, the average annual salary of dental assistants is $32,597. Typical duties include:

• assisting a dentist during treatment procedures
• taking and developing dental radiographs
• taking patients medical history
• preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment
• educating patients about appropriate dental care and giving instructions after oral surgery or treatments
• taking impressions of teeth
• answering the phone, scheduling appointments and verifying that medical forms are filled out correctly

View the 2009 Winter/Spring schedule of courses ^PDF

BASIC DENTAL ASSISTING 
OCA-348 - Dental Assisting and Radiology
Learn the basic skills necessary to work as an entry-level dental assistant. Review dental anatomy, terminology, restorative materials, infection control and chair-side techniques. Prepare for the Dental Assisting National Board's Radiology Certification Examination.
Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED.
Note: Requires 80 percent attendance.  

RADIOLOGY FOR DENTAL ASSISTANTS 
OCA-349 - Dental Radiology 
Learn the terminology and safety techniques necessary to produce dental radiographs. Study digital radiology procedures, basic exposure, positioning techniques and infection control. Upon completion students will be able to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board's Radiology Certification Examination.
Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED.
Note: Requires 80 percent attendance, and proof of employment in a dental office. Call 410-777-2925 prior to registration.

OCA-333 - Dental Assisting Radiology Safety Update
Learn updates on radiology safety techniques and procedures for dental assistants and hygienists. Course meets Maryland's 8-hour requirement for dental assistant radiology recertification.
Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED.
Note: Requires 80 percent attendance, and proof of employment in a dental office. Call 410-777-2925 prior to registration.

For more information or to enroll in the program, contact Pamela Polgreen at 410-777-2925.