The following subjects are covered in depth from both a didactic and a practical clinical experience. The morning lecture is followed by and afternoon of clinical, "hands on" training in the operation of all the equipment, instrumentation and materials used in our state-of-the-art practicing dental office. All students receive in excess of 8 hours of instruction in radiology and are therefore certified according to the Georgia Department of Human Resources.

I. Dental Theory and Terminology

A. Dental and oral anatomy, tooth numbering system
B. Instrument nomenclature and identification for all aspects of General Dentistry
C. Dental terminology
D. Equipment operation, chair positioning, assistant equipment usage

II. Receptionist - Front Desk Office Management

A. Phone techniques and appointment book control
B. Peg-board billing and accounting systems
C. Billing: accounts receivable and accounts payable, collections
D. Filing insurance forms and pre-treatment estimates
E. Computer system practice

III. Four-Handed Dental Assisting

A. Instrument transfer techniques, chair-side assisting and suctioning
B. Chair-side doctor-patient-assistant positioning
C. Tub and tray systems
D. Use of instruments and materials in assisting for:
1. Operative Dentistry
2. Oral Surgery
3. Crown and Bridge
4. Endodontics
5. Periodontics
6. Pedodontics
7. Orthodontics

Comments from Past Students:

"I really enjoyed all of it, from the teachers to the learning and the hands-on participation. The classes were very interesting and was sorry to see it end."
B.T., Stone Mountain

"It's been a very interesting 10 weeks of class. At first I felt like there was so much to take in and learn. I've learned a lot and was surprised to find out that I really enjoyed the course. I had a wonderful time."
J.G., Marietta

"The class was very enjoyable. The instructors were very patient if a student was having problems with a particular section of the course. They even stayed late to give extra help with the hands-on training. It was a great experience for me."
G.R. Decatur

"I really enjoyed this course and am sorry to see it come to an end. I am really looking forward to my career in Dental Assisting and have learned a lot during this ten week program. I wish to thank you, Dr. Erickson, for the wonderful job you and your staff demonstrated for our class. You have all been a great influence and wonderful motivators and I want you to know how much I appreciate your dedication."
A. W., Riverdale

"The Dental Assisting Program has been a wonderful class for me because it has given me a different insight into a field that I have wanted to pursue for years. The class has been so enjoyable and not so serious that I was confused. The instructors were great and they each had their own way of teaching which made it more interesting. I have enjoyed each day of class."
C. T. Atlanta

Thanks for opening doors for people like myself who have dreamed about becoming a dental assistant. The classes were great and I feel that you all do a great job in teaching all the necessary essentials of dental assisting. Keep up the good work."
C.F. Marietta