Gulf Coast Community College

DENTAL ASSISTING PROGRAM

The Dental Assisting offices and clinic are located in the George G. Tapper Health Sciences Building on the main GCCC ( Gulf Coast Community College) campus . This building houses health sciences programs including associate degree nursing, respiratory care, surgical technology, dental hygiene, and emergency medical services. Extended campus sites for the DEAL Program are located in Leesburg and Marianna, Florida. Students may pick up program applications and current program information on the second floor of the George G. Tapper Health Sciences Building.

The dental assisting curriculum includes content in dental sciences, dental assisting sciences, communication and expanded functions. Refer to the curriculum sequence for the specific course requirements.

Educational Requirements

The Dental Assisting Program at Gulf Coast Community College provides the student with the educational background and clinical competencies necessary in the field of dental assisting. This certificate program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Dental Association and is available through the following avenues:

• Traditional Day Time Program
  
  As a full-time student in the traditional daytime Dental Assisting Program, one can complete the program in as little as 10 months. As a part-time student, the course work can be spread over 24 months.


• Distance Learning - Dental Education Alternative Learning (Deal)
  
  Through this unique, individualized approach, the entire certificate program is available via video tapes and internet web courses. The student may enroll in one or more courses and visit the campus only during designated evenings or Saturdays for lab assignments and performance testing. An instructor is available on campus during scheduled times for the DEAL Program.

DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM

The dental hygienist is a licensed member of the dental health team, dedicated to helping patients maintain good oral health and preventing dental disease. Although the tasks performed by a hygienist vary from state to state, the primary functions are:

• Remove calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) above and below the gumline


• Assess and chart the teeth and oral structures


• Expose, process and label dental radiographs


• Provide oral hygiene instructions


• Provide dietary analysis and counseling services


• Apply cavity-prevention agents, such as fluoride and sealants


• Work with special population groups such as the elderly, and the mentally/physically handicapped


• Perform the Expanded Functions legally allowable in Florida

Educational Requirements

The two-year college curriculum is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the licensure and employment needs of the student. The curriculum includes content in general education, biomedical sciences, dental sciences, and dental hygiene science. Applicants are encouraged to complete as many of the general educational courses as possible prior to acceptance into the dental hygiene program. Refer to the general education sequence for the specific requirements.

Basic Practice Requirements

To become licensed to practice dental hygiene, the graduate must first apply for and successfully pass the Dental Hygiene National Board written examination. The student then must apply for and take the state examination, which is composed, of a written examination of the Florida Dental Laws and a practical examination on a clinical patient. The license is issued by the Board of Dentistry and must be renewed every two years through a process of continuing education.

Gulf Coast Community College Dental School Location

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