Dental Assistant

Dental Assistants should have excellent  communication and interpersonal skills, ability to work as part of a team and general computer knowledge.

The course work includes content in general studies, bio-medical and dental sciences, clinical practices, and expanded functions allowed by the State of Minnesota. Students will spend ten weeks in extramural clinical experiences in area dental offices.

Upon completion of the program at Minnesota West, the student will take national and state examinations leading to certification and licensure in dental assisting.

Canby Campus
Canby is the “home-campus.” Twenty-four students are admitted annually; six students may be considered Distance Education students. Students attend lectures on-site. Lectures are delivered face-to-face or via Zoom depending on the location of the faculty. Labs and clinicals are face-to-face at the Canby Campus.
     
Luverne Center
Luverne is the “satellite-site”. Twelve students are admitted annually; six of those may be considered Distance Education students. Students attend lectures on-site.  Lectures are delivered face-to-face or via Zoom depending on the location of the faculty.  Labs and clinicals are face-to-face at the Luverne Center.
     
Distance Education Location
Distance Education students will participate in synchronous lectures via Zoom with their peers from both Canby and Luverne. Students are required to be on his/her declared campus for all labs and clinicals; 1-2 days per week in the fall semester and 2-3 days per week in the spring semester.  This option is best for students who are unable to relocate or commute daily.

Program Handbook

• Develop the necessary knowledge and skills essential for obtaining employment in the occupation of dental assisting.
• Develop competent clinical skills necessary for successful employment as a dental assistant.
• Apply current concepts of infection control and occupational safety.
• Apply principles of ethical reasoning, ethical decision making and professional responsibility as they pertain to the academic environment, patient care and practice management.
• Practice interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with diverse population groups and other members of the healthcare team.
• Develop the knowledge necessary to become licensed in the state of Minnesota by successfully completing National and State Dental Assisting Board Examinations.  In addition, the graduate will complete the learning outcomes identified within the General Education Courses required.

• The curriculum in the Dental Assistant program may expose students to hazardous materials, radiation and /or infectious diseases. Students will be provided with information through education and program policies to protect themselves and their patients from harm. Students will be expected to utilize appropriate safety precautions in the classroom, laboratory and clinic. Program policies are available on request, and are located in the program manual.
• Minnesota Law requires any individual having contact with patients to complete a Minnesota Human Services background study prior to starting the clinical experience. An individual may be disqualified from having patient contact and would not be permitted to participate in the clinical experience. Contact the Minnesota Board of Dentistry and the Minnesota Department of Human Services with any questions.

Students must meet one of the following placement measures: 

• A score of 50 - 77 on test ACCUPLACER Classic Reading Comprehension 
• A score of 233 - 249 on test ACCUPLACER Next-Gen Reading Comprehension 
• A score of 16 - 17 on test ACT English 
• A score of 14 - 20 on test ACT Reading
• ENGL 0090 – Essentials of Writing I

Must be completed by the end of the 7th week of the fall semester

• Currently certified in CPR; Basic Life Support Provider with the American Heart Association or American Red Cross (may be offered on a Minnesota West campus).
• Hepatitis B vaccination, and documentation of tuberculosis testing.
• Completion/passing of criminal background check.
• ADAA membership/liability insurance

Completion of Fall semester courses with a grade of C or better.

• The cumulative grade point average (GPA) of credits attempted and completed at Minnesota West must be at least 2.0.
• All Dental Assistant program courses must be completed with at least a C.
• Students must complete at least 25% of their credits at Minnesota West.

The Dental Assistant program is accredited by the American Dental Association on Dental Accreditation.