The Dental Assistant Program at Lancaster County Career & Technology Center (LCCTC) is designed to provide students with the foundational skills required for a career in dental assisting or to pursue further education in dental fields. This program emphasizes hands-on training and prepares students for essential certifications.
Program Highlights
- Diverse Skills Training: Covers all aspects of dental assisting, from infection control to radiology and chairside procedures.
- Certification Opportunities: Students earn certifications in CPR, OSHA Healthcare, HIPAA, and Radiation Health & Safety.
- Further Education Pathways: Graduates are well-prepared for roles as dental assistants or for advanced studies in dental hygiene and expanded functions.
About Lancaster County Career & Technology Center
LCCTC, one of Pennsylvania’s largest technical schools, offers a range of technical programs, including dental assisting. With state-of-the-art facilities across four campuses, LCCTC provides a learning environment focused on real-world skills. The main campus is located in Willow Street, PA, and offers both high school and adult education tracks.
Program Structure
This program follows a well-structured curriculum that balances theoretical learning with practical experience. Students learn through a mix of lectures, hands-on labs, and real-world application, preparing them for work in dental offices and labs upon graduation.
Coursework and Skills Training
The curriculum includes key areas of study essential for dental assisting, such as:
- Radiology: Training in radiation health and safety, including certification preparation.
- Infection Control and Safety: Focus on sterilization and safety in line with OSHA standards.
- Chairside Assisting: Skills to support dentists with patient care, dental tools, and procedures.
- Dental Lab Procedures: Techniques in creating and managing dental prosthetics and impressions.
- Ethical and Legal Responsibilities: Instruction on HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality.
This broad skill set prepares students for the diverse responsibilities of dental assisting roles.
Certifications
The program includes certification training in essential areas:
- CPR (American Heart Association)
- Radiation Health and Safety (DANB)
- OSHA Healthcare
- HIPAA
These certifications enhance a student’s professional qualifications and readiness for the workplace.
Prerequisites
- High School Diploma or GED
- Interest in healthcare and strong communication skills
These requirements ensure students are well-prepared for the demands of the program and patient interaction.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the LCCTC Dental Assistant Program are equipped to pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Dental Assistant
- Expanded-Function Dental Assistant
- Sterilization Assistant
- Dental Lab Technician Assistant
These career paths benefit from the practical skills and certifications earned during the program.
Why Lancaster County Career & Technology Center?
The Dental Assistant Program at LCCTC offers hands-on training and valuable certifications, ideal for those looking to enter the dental field or further their education. With a strong emphasis on real-world experience and a supportive learning environment, it’s a great option for students in Pennsylvania. However, students should be prepared for the intensive study and certification requirements to make the most of this program.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | Not specified |
| Class Schedules | Not specified |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting (including radiology, infection control, chairside assisting, lab procedures) |
| Admission Requirements | High School Diploma or GED |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | No formal job placement, but includes hands-on training |
| Financial Aid Options | Yes, for those who qualify (eligibility through FAFSA and WIOA funding) |
| Location | 1730 Hans Herr Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584 |
| Phone | (717) 464-7050 |
| Website | https://lancasterctc.edu/academics/high-school/dental-professions/dental-assistant/ |
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