The Dental Occupations program at Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center (RMCTC) offers students hands-on training in dental assisting, equipping them with the skills needed to enter the dental field or continue with advanced studies in dental hygiene, lab technology, or other dental specializations.
Program Highlights
- Hands-On Learning: Students work in a modern lab setting, gaining practical experience in tasks like taking x-rays, mixing materials, sterilization, and office duties.
- Flexible Tuition Options: Sponsorship opportunities make tuition-free training possible, with RMCTC handling billing for employers or other sponsors.
- Comprehensive Certification Preparation: Graduates earn multiple industry-recognized certifications, preparing them for entry-level dental roles.
Program Curriculum
This program emphasizes a mix of classroom learning and clinical lab work, covering essential areas in dental assisting. Students spend around half their day in theoretical instruction and the other half in lab practice. The curriculum covers infection control, anatomy and physiology, radiology, office procedures, and more.
Infection Control
Students learn critical safety standards, including sterilization of equipment, disinfection practices, and OSHA compliance, ensuring a safe working environment for themselves and patients. Proper waste disposal, including handling sharps and hazardous waste, is also covered.
Radiology Skills
Hands-on training in radiographic techniques equips students to assist with dental x-rays and develop radiographs, essential skills for any dental assistant. Students learn patient positioning, safety protocols, and how to evaluate radiographs for diagnostic quality.
Chairside Dentistry
The program emphasizes “four-handed dentistry” – a cooperative approach where the assistant aids the dentist in procedures by transferring instruments, evacuating the oral cavity, and ensuring patient comfort. Other skills include setting up trays, taking patient histories, and applying topical anesthesia.
Office Procedures
In addition to clinical skills, students learn administrative tasks common in a dental practice, such as scheduling appointments, processing insurance claims, and maintaining patient files. Training in dental software systems prepares them for modern office environments.
Certifications
Graduates of the Dental Occupations program at RMCTC can obtain several certifications:
- NOCTI Certification: Measures occupational competency, critical for demonstrating skills in dental assisting.
- BLS Healthcare Provider: Covers CPR and other life-saving techniques.
- OSHA Healthcare Certification: Ensures graduates meet safety and health regulations.
- Radiation Health & Safety Certification: Essential for anyone performing x-ray procedures.
Prerequisites
To enroll in the Dental Occupations program, applicants must:
- Be past their high school graduation date.
- Complete criminal and child abuse background clearances.
- Attend an admissions interview.
Program Completion Requirements
RMCTC expects students to meet several benchmarks for successful program completion, including:
- Occupational Competency: Achieve a “competent” or “advanced” score on the NOCTI assessment.
- Certification: Earn at least one industry certification.
- Attendance: Maintain a minimum 95% attendance rate.
Instructor Expertise
The program is led by Ms. Jacklyn Rusnock, a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) with over 22 years of experience in private dental practice. Her background includes extensive clinical work and previous teaching experience at the Berks Career & Technology Center.
Additional Benefits
- Work-Based Learning Opportunities: The program encourages cooperative education and internships, offering students a chance to gain real-world experience in a dental setting.
- Credit Transfer Options: RMCTC partners with various colleges, enabling students to earn college credits for courses completed within the program, potentially saving on tuition costs if they continue their education.
Why Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center?
Reading Muhlenberg CTC offers a well-rounded Dental Occupations program that combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce or further studies. The all-inclusive tuition rate, covering books, uniforms, and certification fees, makes it an accessible choice for students with financial constraints. However, spaces are limited, and applicants need to act quickly to secure enrollment.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free through tuition sponsorship |
| Program Duration | Full-time, Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. |
| Class Schedules | Daytime classes only |
| Classes Offered | Dental Occupations, covering dental assisting, lab work, office duties, and radiology skills |
| Admission Requirements | High school completion, criminal and child abuse clearances, admissions interview |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | No specific job placement services mentioned |
| Financial Aid Options | Tuition sponsorship through CareerLink, TAA/TRA, OVR, Veterans’ Administration |
| Location | 2615 Warren Road, Reading, PA 19604-1021 |
| Phone | 610-921-7300 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | RMCTC Dental Occupations |
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