Admissions, Program, & Policies
Program Information and Policies for The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville
Course Description
Dental Assisting Training & Learning
The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville is a comprehensive and hands-on educational journey designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for a successful career as a dental assistant.
This dynamic and hybrid program offers a well-rounded curriculum that covers essential aspects of dental health, clinical procedures, radiography, infections control, dental materials, and office administration.
Through a blend of online learning, classroom instruction, and clinical hands-on training the students gain the expertise required to excel in a variety of dental healthcare settings.
THE DENTAL ASSISTING INSTITUTE AT HUNTERSVILLE
Program Outline
Week
Online Learning
Lecture Hours
Clinical Hours
Week 1: The Dental Assisting Profession
2
3
2
Week 2: Sciences in Dentistry
2
2
3
Week 3: Oral Health & Prevention of Dental Disease
2
2
3
Week 4: Infection Prevention (OSHA & HIPAA)
2
2
3
Week 5: Occupational Health & Safety
2
2
3
Week 6: Patient Information & Assessment
2
2
3
Week 7: Foundation of Clinical Dentistry
2
2
3
Week 8: Radiographic Imaging
2
2
3
Week 9: Dental Materials
2
2
3
Week 10: Assisting in Comprehensive Dental Care
2
1
4
Week 11: Dental Administration & Communicative Skills
2
5
0
Week 12: Review & Testing
Program Totals
24
25
30
Externship
32 hours must be completed at the end of the program. See Externship.
TOTAL PROGRAM HOURS: 111
Program INFORMATION
Table of Contents
Program Requirements
- High School Education or Recognized Equivalency
- Education Proof is Required Prior to Start Date
- Must Be 18 Years of Age
- Negative TB Skin Test
Tuition & Fees
- Application Fee: $50
- Tuition Fee: $4,295
Tuition Includes
- Clinical Hands-On Training
- NC Radiology Certification
- OSHA & HIPAA Certification
- CPR Certification
- Course Books & Online Access
- Monogrammed Scrub Tops
Other Items
These items are needed, but not included
- 1 Set of Black Scrubs
- Computer with Internet Access
Payment Agreement
The entire tuition balance is due in-full two-weeks prior to the first day of class. To secure you spot in our program you must pay a minimum of 25% ($1074) of the total tuition fee. Prior to class, payments may be broken into payments however you see fit using the below payment methods. If your tuition is not paid in-full prior to two weeks of the school’s start date, you will be refunded the amount in which you’ve already paid. The application fee is non-refundable.
If in any situation, you are unable to fulfill your financial obligation please let the Director of Operations know so we can move your start date and give another potential student your spot.
Note: Understand that if another individual is paying it is their responsibility to contact the Director of Operations to pay/make payment arrangements.
Refund Information
A full refund will be issued to students who withdraw before the first day of class, or if the school cancels the course for whatever reason. Students who begin instruction but withdraw prior to the twenty-five percent (25%) mark of the program will receive a seventy-five percent (75%) refund. In said situation, please email the Director of Operations and the instructor.
After 3rd week of the program’s start date, if a student is non-compliant with the school’s Attendance Policy, Standards of Conduct, and/or unsatisfactory course work, the Director of Operations and/or the school’s Instructor may dismiss/remove the student from the program and no refund will be issued.
Re-Entrance Information
Re-entrance of the school is at the discretion of the Lead Instructor and/or the Director of Operations. Each situation is and will be case specific to previous student’s situation.
An additional fee will be required if a student is permitted back into the program.
Transfer Students or Previous Certifications
The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville does not accept any transfer transcripts or previous certifications.
Online Format
At The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville, we are committed to providing a flexible and dynamic learning experience for our dental assisting students. Our online learning platform offers a convenient way for you to access course materials, interact with our instructor(s), and develop the skills necessary for a successful career in dental assisting.
Flexibility
- Our online course allows you to learn at your own pace and accommodate your personal and professional commitments.
Convenience
- Access your coursework from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for daily commuting.
Interactive Content
- Engage with multimedia-rich content, including videos, presentations, quizzes, and interactive simulations.
User-Friendly Interface
- Our intuitive online platform is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, even for those new to online learning.
Course Materials
- Access your course syllabi, lecture notes, assignments, and additional resources all in one place.
Assessment and Grading
- Submit assignments, quizzes, and exams online, and receive timely feedback and grades.
Classroom Format
Creating an effective classroom format for a dental assisting school is crucial for delivering quality education and ensuring students’ success.
Lecture and Information
- The start of each class will entail a clear agenda and learning objectives.
- We encourage all students to engage in questions and discussions as this will only help you succeed in our program.
Interactive and Activities
- The student will experience break-up lectures with interactive activities, case studies, and group discussions to reinforce concepts and encourage critical thinking.
- Incorporate hands-on demonstrations, role-playing, and simulations to bridge theory with practical skills.
Guest Speakers and Industry Experts
- The school will provide guest speakers, such as practicing dentists, dental hygienists, or dental lab technicians, to provide insights into real-world dental practices.
- By incorporating those with experience will allow students to openly ask questions to gain industry perspectives.
Externship
The externship experience is a valuable and exciting component of your dental assisting education at The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville. It provides you with the opportunity to apply skills and knowledge gained in the class to real-world dental practice settings. During your externship, you will have the chance to work alongside experience dental professionals, contribute to patient care, and further develop your clinical expertise.
Externship Placement
- We have established partnerships with reputable dental practices in the community where you will complete your externship.
- The externship placement is carefully selected to align with your educational goals and provide a well-rounded experience.
Duration
- The minimum time expectation for our externship in the program is 32 hours (unpaid).
- Each student will be required to have the Practice Manager and/or Doctor complete our externship form for completion.
Externship Expectations
The externship experience is a vital component of your dental assisting education, providing you with real-world exposure to a dental practice and patient care.
To ensure a successful and enriching externship, The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville has established the following expectations for students:
- Dress Code: Adhere to the dress code and uniform requirements of the externship site. Always maintain a neat and professional appearance.
- Punctuality: Arrive on time for your scheduled shifts. Promptness demonstrates your commitment to your externship responsibilities.
- Attendance: Attend all scheduled externship shifts as agreed upon with the site supervisor. Notify both the externship site and the school in advance if you need to miss a shift due to illness or other valid reasons.
- Ethical Conduct: Uphold high ethical standards, demonstrating integrity, honesty, and respect towards patients, colleagues, and the dental team.
- Confidentiality: Maintain strict patient confidentiality by not discussing patient information outside of the clinical setting and adhering to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations.
- Safety and Infeection Control: Follow all infection control protocols and safety guidelines to ensure a sterile and safe environment for patients, staff, and yourself.
- Assisting Skills: Apply your knowledge and skills acquired in the dental assisting program to effectively assist dental professionals during treatments and procedures.
- Radiography: If trained, demonstrate proficiency in operating radiography equipment, taking X-rays, and following radiation safety protocols.
- Patient Interaction: Interact professionally and compassionately with patients. Address their questions and concerns with empathy and clarity.
Learning and Initiative
- Observation: Actively observe and engage in various dental procedures, patient interactions, and office management tasks during your externship. Seek opportunities to learn from experienced dental professionals.
- Responsibility: Accept tasks and assignments delegated by your site supervisor with a positive attitude. Take ownership of your learning experience and be proactive in asking questions.
- Feedback: Be open to receiving feedback from your site supervisor and colleagues. Use feedback to improve your skills and enhance your performance.
Communication
- Site Supervisor Communication: Maintain clear and respectful communication with your site supervisor. Inform them promptly if you encounter any challenges or have questions.
- School Communication: Maintain communication with The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville throughout your externship, providing updates on your progress and addressing any concern.
Completion Requirements
- Documentation: Complete all required documentation, including externship logs, evaluations, and any other paperwork specified by the school.
- Attendance and Hours: Complete the required externship hours and fulfill attendance expectations as outlined by the school.
Grading
Establishing a fair and effective grading scale is crucial for accurately assessing student performance in our program.
Scale for Quizzes/Testing:
- A: 90-100 (Excellent)
- B: 80-89 (Good)
- C: 70-79 (Satisfactory)
- D: Below 70 (Fail)
Final Exam Information
The final dental assisting exam is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate your understanding and proficiency in the various aspects of this program. This exam serves as a culmination of your learning journey and is a crucial component of your evaluation.
Exam Format: The final DA1 exam will consist of both written and clinical/practical components.
- Written Exam: The written portion of the exam will assess your theoretical knowledge of dental anatomy, radiography, infection control, dental procedures, dental materials, and other relevant topics. This section may include multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and scenario-based questions.
- Practical Exam: The practical portion of the exam will evaluate your hands-on skills in various clinical procedures. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to assist in dental treatments, operate dental equipment, practice infection control measures, and perform other essential tasks.
Preparation for Final Exam
- Reviewing Course Material: Thoroughly review your class notes, textbooks, handouts, and other learning resources provided throughout the program.
- Practical Practice: Spend time practicing clinical procedures and techniques in the lab to ensure you are comfortable and confident in your practical skills.
- Collaborative Study: Form study groups with your peers to discuss and review key concepts and scenarios.
Passing Criteria
To successfully pass the final dental assisting exam, you will need to demonstrate competency in both the written and practical components. A minimum score of 70 is required to pass the exam.
Results & Grading
Exam results will be communicated to you within 24 hours after the exam. Your final grade will reflect your performance in both the written and practical components.
Attendance Policy
Our school’s Attendance Policy is essential to ensure students maintain regular attendance and meet the necessary requirements for successful completion of the program. Each student is required to sign in at every class.
Importance of Attendance
- Regular attendance is crucial for a comprehensive and successful learning experience in the dental assisting program. Attending classes and clinical sessions allows students to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and professional ethic required to become competent dental assistants.
Attendance Requirements
- All students are expected to attend ALL scheduled live/online classes and all clinical classes. The minimum attendance requirement for successful completion of the program is 90% (11 out of 12 weeks presence required).
Punctuality
- Students are expected to be punctual and arrive on time for all classes and clinical sessions. Tardiness disrupts the learning process and can result in missed important information.
Absence Notification
- In the event of an unavoidable absence, students are required to inform their instructor as soon as possible, preferable before the start of the scheduled session. Students must provide a valid reason for their absence, such as illness, personal emergency, or other acceptable circumstances.
Make-up Sessions
- Students who miss a class or clinical session are responsible for catching up on the material and work covered during their absence. The school will provide opportunities for students to make up missed assignments or practical sessions, subject to availability and at the discretion of the instructor.
Medical or Extended Absences
- In cases of prolonged illness or other extenuating circumstances, students should contact the Director of Operations to discuss the situation. Medical documentation may be required, and the school will work with the student to explore possible options, which may include a temporary leave of absence or deferred coursework.
Attendance Records
- The instructor will maintain accurate records of attendance for all students. Students can request access to their attendance records for reference and monitoring their progress.
Consequences for Excessive Absences
- If a student exceeds the 10% allowable absence limit, their academic standing may be negatively affected. Excessive absences may result in academic probation or dismissal from the program (without a refund).
Support and Guidance
- The school administration always welcomes support and guidance to those students’ facing challenges with attendance or other personal matters affecting their academic progress.
Student Conduct
Creating a student conduct policy is essential for maintaining a positive and respectful learning environment within a dental assisting school. This policy sets clear expectations for student behavior and outlines the consequences for violations.
- Purpose
a. The Student Conduct Policy is designed to promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all students in the dental assisting program. This policy outlines the expected standards of behavior, the consequences for violations, and the procedures for handling conduct-related issues. - General Expectations
a. Students are expected to always conduct themselves in a professional and courteous manner, both within the school premises and during off-campus activities related to the program. Respect for peers, faculty, staff, patients, and the learning environment is paramount. - Prohibited Behaviors
a. The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action:
i. Academic dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, or any form of academic misconduct.
ii. Harassment, discrimination, or any actions that create a hostile or offensive environment for others.
iii. Verbal, physical, or written abuse, threats, or intimidation towards others.
iv. Destruction, theft, or unauthorized use of school property or the property of others.
v. Possession, use, or distributing of illegal substances or alcohol on school premises.
vi. Failure to comply with the school’s health and safety guidelines.
vii. Violation of patient confidentiality or privacy regulations. - Reporting Incidents
a. Any student who witnesses or experiences conduct that violates this policy should promptly report the incident to their instructor or the Director of Operations. Reports may be made anonymously if desired, and all complaints will be treated with confidentiality to the extent possible. - Investigation and Disciplinary Process
a. Upon receiving a report of conduct violation, the school will conduct a fair and impartial investigation. If the investigation reveal violation, the student will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, which may include but is not limited to:
i. Verbal warning or counseling
ii. Written warning and an action plan for improvement
iii. Probation, with specific conditions to be met.
iv. Temporary suspension from classes or clinical assignments
v. Permanent dismissal from the program
Dress Code
Establishing a professional dress code is important to create a respectful and conducive learning environment that prepares students for their future careers.
Uniform
- Every student is required to wear solid black scrubs during all class sessions, laboratory work, and clinical rotations in addition to close-toed tennis shoes with a non-slip sole.
- Lab coats are recommended (solid black) but not required.
- The school will provide the school’s logo and the student’s name embroidered on both the black scrub top and lab coat.
Hair and Personal Grooming
- Hair should be clean, neatly groomed, and tied back if it is long, to prevent interference with patient care.
- Minimal or natural makeup is preferred.
- Avoid excessive jewelry and strong fragrances.
Hygiene and Health
- Students should maintain good personal hygiene and ensure their nails are kept short and clean.
- Students are required to follow the program requirements for the Hepatitis Vaccine and obtain a negative TB Test.
Infection Control
- Always follow infection control protocols, including wearing gloves, masks, and eye protection as directed during clinical activities.
Drug Free School
Creating and maintaining a drug-free environment is essential to ensure the safety of students, staff, and patients, as well as to uphold professionalism and ethical standards. Here’s how you can establish a drug-free policy:
Purpose: The Drug Free Policy of The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville is designed to promote a safe, healthy, and productive learning and working environment by prohibiting the use, possession, distribution, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or controlled substances on school premises and during school-related activities.
- Illegal Drug and Substance Prohibition: The possession, distribution, sale, use or being under the influence of illegal drugs or controlled substances is strictly prohibited within the school premises, during school-sponsored events, and while representing the school in any capacity.
- Prescription Medications: Students who are prescribed medications should inform the school administration in advance if these medications may affect their performance or behavior. Proper documentation from a healthcare professional may be required.
- Reporting: All students and employees are encouraged to report any knowledge of drug-related activities or violations of this policy to the appropriate school authorities.
- Consequences of Violations: Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, which may include counseling, suspension, termination, referral for substance abuse treatment, legal action, or other appropriate measures.
- Compliance: All students, faculty, staff, and other members of the school community are expected to comply with this policy as a condition of enrollment, employment, or association with The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville.
Sexual Harassment Policy
Purpose: The Sexual Harassment Policy of The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This policy is designed to prevent and address all forms of sexual harassment within the school premises and during school-related activities.
- Zero Tolerance: We maintain a zero-tolerance stance against any form of sexual harassment, including but not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, and creation of a hostile or intimidating environment based on gender.
- Applicability: This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, visitors, and any individuals associated with The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville.
- Prohibited Conduct: Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Unwanted sexual advances or comments
- Display of explicit materials
- Sexual jokes, slurs, or innuendos
- Inappropriate touching, gestures, or comments
- Requests for sexual favors
- Cyber harassment or inappropriate online behavior
- Retaliation against individuals who report sexual harassment.
- Reporting: Any individual who believes they have experienced or witnesses sexual harassment is encouraged to report the incident promptly to their immediate supervisor, instructor, or a designated school authority. Reports can be made verbally or in writing.
- Confidentiality: All reports of sexual harassment will be handled with the utmost confidentially to the extent allowed by law. Confidentiality will be maintained during the investigation process.
- Investigation and Resolution: The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville is committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation of all reported incidents. Appropriate corrective action will be taken if sexual harassment is substantiated, including disciplinary measures up to and including suspension or termination.
- Compliance: All students, faculty, staff, and other members of the school community are expected to comply with this policy as a condition of enrollment, employment, or association with The Dental Assisting Institute at Huntersville.Top of FormBottom of Form
Certification & Licensure
A professional license is not currently required for employment in North Carolina, but certification recognizes the competency and skills learned during your training and may provide an advantage when seeking employment.
Dental Assisting 1 Disclosure
A student completing all requirements within this program will be classified as a Dental Assistant 1 in North Carolina.
Dental Assistant II Disclaimer
In North Carolina, there are two classifications for Dental Assistant (DA1 and DA2). North Carolina does NOT certify assistants. Classification is based on experience and/or training as listed below. It is up to the employer to verify an assistant’s qualifications and determine if he/she is a DA1 or DA2.
Education and Training Requirements
To be classified as a Dental Assistant 2, an assistant shall meet one of the following criteria:
- Completion of:
a. an ADA-accredited dental assisting program and current certification in CPR; OR
b. one academic year or longer in an ADA-accredited dental hygiene program, and current certification in CPR; or - Completion of the Dental Assistant certification examination(s) administered by the Dental Assisting National Board and current certification in CPR, OR
- Completion of:
a. 3-hour course in sterilization and infection control
b. 3-hour course in the dental office emergencies; and
c. Current certification in CPR
d. After completing Sub-Items (3)(b), (c), and (d) of this Rule, dental assistants may be trained in any dental delivery setting and allowed to perform the functions of a Dental Assistant 2 under the direct control and supervision of a licensed dentist, except as listed in Sub-Item 3(e) of this Rule.
e. Dental assistants may take radiographs after completing radiology training consistent with G.S. 90-29 (C)(12)
f. Full-time employment and experience as a chairside assistant for two years (3,000 hours) of the preceding five, during which period the assistant may be trained in any dental delivery setting and allowed to perform the functions of a Dental Assistant 2 under the direct control and supervision of a licensed dentist.
- Completion of:
Continuing Education
There is no additional continuing education required for the Dental Assistant 1(DA1) program and your DA1 certificate does NOT expire.
Additional Certification Information
OSHA and HIPAA certifications do expire annually, and MOST practices will pay to renew as this is required by the state in the dental field.
CPR certifications will last anywhere from 2-3 years depending on the company in which it was originally obtain. This will vary and again, MOST practices will pay to renew as this is also require by the state in the dental field.
Records and Transcript
The school will provide each student with one set of certifications and one transcript at the completion of the program. A fee of $99 will be required to obtain lost certifications and/or transcript as a replication and admin fee.
Holiday School Closings
- New Year’s Day
- Good Friday
- Memorial Day
- July Fourth
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Week
- Christmas Week
Campus Location
NC Tooth Docs
4605 Hylas Lane, Unit B
Hunterville, NC 28078
Equipment Disclaimer
Classroom facilities, which are in an operational dental office, are spacious, well-appointed and climate controlled to maintain a comfortable environment conducive to learning. The facility is furnished with the most up-to-date state of the art equipment.
Additional Information
For additional information not found in this program catalog, please email the Director of Operations.
