What Will I Learn in a Franklin Dental Assistant Certification Program?

dental assistant helping dentist with patient oral cleaning

Embarking on a career as a dental assistant opens up a world of opportunities in the healthcare field. Dental assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of dental practices, supporting dentists, and providing quality care to patients. A comprehensive certification program, such as the one offered by Franklin Dental Assistant School, equips students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in this dynamic profession. By enrolling in such a program, aspiring dental assistants gain access to a curriculum designed to prepare them for real-world challenges, combining theoretical learning with hands-on experience.

Franklin Dental Assistant School stands out as a leader in dental assistant education, offering a well-rounded 12-week program that focuses on both hard and soft skills. In this blog post, we will explore five key hard skills that students can expect to learn during their time in the program. These skills include mastering dental terminology, digital charting, radiography, patient anxiety control, and crown and bridge procedures. Each of these skills plays a vital role in the day-to-day responsibilities of a dental assistant, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute effectively to any dental team.

1. Dental Terminology

Understanding dental terminology is fundamental for any aspiring dental assistant. This skill involves learning the specific language used in dental practices, which is essential for effective communication with dentists, hygienists, and patients. By mastering dental terminology, students can accurately interpret and relay information, ensuring that they understand instructions and convey messages clearly. This knowledge also enables dental assistants to assist with patient education, explaining procedures and treatments in terms that patients can easily comprehend.

In the Franklin Dental Assistant Certification Program, students engage in comprehensive coursework that covers a wide range of dental terms, from basic anatomy to complex procedures. This education is crucial for ensuring that dental assistants are not only competent but also confident in their ability to communicate professionally. By the end of the program, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in dental vocabulary, allowing them to navigate the dental environment with ease and contribute to the overall efficiency of the practice.

2. Digital Charting

In today’s digital age, proficiency in digital charting is an indispensable skill for dental assistants. Digital charting involves the use of electronic health records (EHR) systems to document patient information, treatment plans, and progress notes. This technology enhances the efficiency of dental practices by streamlining data entry, reducing errors, and facilitating easy access to patient records. Understanding how to navigate these systems is crucial for dental assistants, as it directly impacts the quality of patient care and the smooth operation of the dental office.

Franklin Dental Assistant School provides hands-on training in digital charting, ensuring that students are well-versed in the latest software and technology used in dental practices. The program emphasizes the importance of accuracy and attention to detail, as even minor errors in digital charting can have significant consequences. By learning to efficiently manage digital records, students gain a valuable skill set that enhances their employability and prepares them for the evolving landscape of dental care.

3. Radiography

Radiography is a vital component of dental care, allowing dental professionals to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. Dental assistants play a crucial role in this process by taking and processing dental X-rays. This skill requires a solid understanding of radiographic techniques, safety protocols, and equipment operation. Proper training in radiography ensures that dental assistants can produce high-quality images while minimizing radiation exposure to patients and themselves.

The Franklin Dental Assistant Certification Program includes extensive training in radiography, equipping students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to perform this task proficiently. The curriculum covers topics such as radiation physics, radiographic anatomy, and infection control measures. By mastering these concepts, students become competent in assisting with diagnostic procedures, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and the overall success of the dental practice.

4. Patient Anxiety Control

Dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many patients, making it essential for dental assistants to possess skills in managing and alleviating this stress. Patient anxiety control involves creating a calm and welcoming environment, effectively communicating with patients, and using techniques to reduce fear and discomfort. By developing these skills, dental assistants can enhance the patient experience and foster a positive relationship between patients and the dental practice.

In the Franklin Dental Assistant Certification Program, students learn various strategies for managing patient anxiety, including active listening, empathy, and relaxation techniques. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding each patient’s unique needs and tailoring the approach accordingly. By the end of the program, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in creating a supportive atmosphere that promotes patient comfort and satisfaction, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes.

5. Crown & Bridge Procedures

Crown and bridge procedures are common restorative treatments in dentistry, requiring the assistance of skilled dental professionals. Dental assistants play a crucial role in these procedures by preparing materials, assisting the dentist during the procedure, and providing post-operative care instructions to patients. Understanding the intricacies of crown and bridge procedures is essential for ensuring the efficiency and success of these treatments.

Franklin Dental Assistant School offers in-depth training on crown and bridge procedures, covering topics such as impression taking, material selection, and the use of dental instruments. Students gain hands-on experience in assisting with these procedures, learning to anticipate the needs of the dentist and provide seamless support. By mastering this skill, dental assistants become valuable assets to the dental team, contributing to the delivery of high-quality care and improved patient outcomes.

Find Your Future in Dental Assisting Today

Franklin Dental Assistant School is a local leader in world-class dental assistant education, offering a comprehensive 12-week program that prepares students for a successful career in the dental field. The program has helped thousands of aspiring dental assistants acquire in-demand skills in patient care, sterilization, radiography, dental anatomy, chairside duties, and more. By enrolling in Franklin Dental Assistant School, students gain access to expert instructors, hands-on training, and a supportive learning environment that empowers them to excel in their chosen profession. Start your journey toward a rewarding career as a dental assistant by joining Franklin Dental Assistant School today.

Apply today to get started.

Request More Information

By submitting your information, you agree to our Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing communications from Franklin Dental Assistant School. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Picture of Author: Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie

Lead Copywriter
| Click to open Lisa Leslie's LinkedIn Profile
Lead Copywriter
| Click to open Lisa Leslie's LinkedIn Profile

Lisa Leslie, a professional copywriter based in New Hampshire, is the Content Manager and Lead Copywriter at Zollege, the parent company of a network of over 120 medical assistant and dental assistant schools ...

Read more >