Dental Assistant Program Details
Dental Assistant Program in Northwest Indiana Overview
The Indiana Dental Assistant Academy, Dental Assistant Training Program, provides students with an in-depth, self-paced curriculum designed to be engaging. Our program combines a mix of expert-led instruction, self-paced learning, and hands-on clinical experience, helping students gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed as a dental assistant. Our focus on hands-on clinical experience offers more than just demonstrations; students actively participate in real-world dental procedures, gaining proficiency and applying course knowledge. Upon graduation, our students stand out against graduates from other programs and are well-prepared to step into any dental office setting and start a new career in dental assisting with real-world experience under their belt.
Program Structure
Online, Instructor-led Training:
- Delivered through our interactive online platform
- Coursework is instructor-led
- Covers both foundational and theoretical course material
- Follow a structured schedule to maintain steady student progress
In-Person Clinical Training:
- Weekend, clinical training is conducted at Lakeland Creek Family Dental, 8080 Utah St, Merrillville, Indiana 46410
- Gain professional, supervised, hands-on practice with real patients
- Exposure to dental office workflows, instruments, and procedures
Simulation Sessions:
- Simulation sessions include hands-on training with dental mannequins and simulated patient scenarios
- Practice in a controlled environment before working with real patients
- Improve competency and increase confidence while building clinical skills
Course Modules - Self-Paced
Module 1: Intro to Dental Assisting
- Learn the roles and responsibilities of dental assistants
- Overview of dental terminology and anatomy
- HIPAA & OSHA compliance
Module 2: Infection Control & Sterilization
- Learn standard precautions and aseptic techniques
- Instrument processing and sterilization
- Management of hazardous materials in a dental office
Module 3: Chairside Assisting Techniques
- Organization of dental instruments and tray setups
- Procedures for assisting in general dental care and oral surgeries
- Four-handed dentistry techniques
Module 4: Radiology & Imaging
- Radiology safety and regulatory compliance
- Principles of dental radiology
- Digital and traditional X-ray techniques
- Indiana Radiology Exam Preparation
Module 5: Dental Materials & Lab Procedures
- Dental material mixing
- Impression taking and model pouring
- Temporary dental restorations and sealants
Module 6: Dental Office Management and Patient Communication
- Appointment scheduling and proper record-keeping techniques
- Insurance overview and billing basics
- Professionalism in a dental office setting
Other Information
Graduation Requirements
- Complete all 12 weeks of online coursework
- Attend all required simulation sessions
- Submission of all clinical observation logs
- Pass final written exam and hands-on assessment
Certification
- Certificate of Completion: Upon successful completion of the Dental Assistant Training Program exams, all students will receive a certificate of completion
- CPR Training: All students will receive CPR training and certification as part of the Dental Assistant Training Program
- Radiology Exam Preparation: Course materials will prepare students to successfully take and pass the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Exam
Program Timeline
- Total Program Duration: 12 weeks
- Online Training Duration: Instructor-led & self-paced modules
- Clinical Training Duration: Flexible weekend clinical training within the 12-week course duration
- Simulation Sessions: Flexible simulation sessions within the 12-week course duration
Career Support
- Job Placement Assistance: The Indiana Dental Assistant Academy provides job placement assistance to students who have successfully completed the Dental Assistant Training Program.
- National Dental Assisting Exams: Students who have received a certificate of completion may be eligible to participate in national dental assisting exams.
- Career Outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental assistants is projected to grow steadily over the next decade.
Program Admission Requirements
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate
- Basic computer proficiency (required for online coursework)
- A strong work ethic and passion to take control of your career
- Workplace professionalism
Program Fees
- Base Tuition: $3,615 (includes all training materials and lab fees)
- Payment Plans: Multiple payment plans available
- Scholarship Opportunities: eligibility to be determined
How to Apply
Applying for the Dental Assistant Training Program is easy and takes just three simple steps:
Fill out our online application
Attend an orientation and information session
Complete your enrollment and begin coursework