Dental Assisting

The Dental Assisting program is accredited by the Dental Board of California (DBC) and the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA). Upon completion of the program, students are awarded a Certificate of Achievement from the college and may complete an associate degree with additional coursework. Students will receive a Certificate of Completion to operate dental x-ray equipment in the State of California. Proof of completion in Coronal Polish, Dental Sealants, Infection Control and Dental Practice Act will be presented to successful students at the completion of the program. The student is also eligible to take the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), state written and practical boards, and the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) National written examination.

Program Outcomes

California Registered Dental Assistant Examination Pass Rate

Year	Tested	Pass	Percent
2021	6	6	100%
2020
2019	6	6	100%

View Full List of RDA Exam Statistics

Dental Assisting Health and Safety Policies

Bloodborne and Infectious Diseases

In dental assisting, there is potential for exposure to bloodborne and infectious disease by way of saliva and blood. The Dental Assisting program at Mesa College implements the standards set forth in the Bloodborne Pathogens Regulation in the California Code of Regulations, Title 8 (8 CCR), Section 5193. In addition, the program provides students with personal protective equipment for safety when working with classmates and patients in various dental procedures. Students in the program receive theory and practice regarding infection control procedures and prevention of exposure to bloodborne and infectious disease. Students must also show proof of immunization for Hepatitis B and Tetanus (forms provided by program). Should the student decline to comply with immunization, for any reason, they will discuss their concerns with the Program Director and be required to sign a declination form.

Hazardous Materials

Various dental materials, as found in dental offices, are used in the dental assisting program. All standard precautions used in the dental field are also used in the program to protect the student and patients from potential harm and or injury. A manual of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) is kept in the dental assisting facility as well as required clean up equipment for any spills or possible exposure. Students are taught the theory and practice to safely work with dental materials.

Ionizing Radiation

Certification in radiation safety (x-ray certificate) is part of the dental assisting program. Students will participate in taking dental x-rays on manikins and patients. Students are educated in ionizing radiation safety theory and practice. All safety standards as used in the dental field are utilized in the dental radiography course.