Dental Assisting Diploma

Dental Assistants help the dentist at chair side and also perform functions such as polishing teeth, taking X-rays, mixing materials and sterilizing instruments. Some assistants also manage the office and patient accounts, schedule appointments and purchase supplies. During this one year program, students will gain classroom, laboratory and hands-on experience by working with patients at the College of Dentistry at the University of Iowa and in private dental offices. An Associate of Applied Science degree may be obtained upon completion of additional general education coursework. This program has a mandatory background check for clinical purposes. The Dental Assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of compliance without reporting requirements. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. Successful completion of the program entitles graduates to take the National Dental Assistant Certification Examination. The Commission on Dental Accreditation 211 East Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60611-2678 312-440-4653 This diploma is eligible for state and federal financial aid.