San Joaquin Valley College-Temecula
San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) in Temecula offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful career in dental healthcare. This program combines hands-on experience with classroom instruction, covering various aspects of dental assisting and related theory.
Program Content and Duration
The Dental Assisting program encompasses a range of subjects essential for dental assistants:
- Dental Anatomy and Radiology: Understanding teeth structure and mastering radiographic techniques.
- Dental Software: Training in industry-standard software for patient records and office management.
- Preventive Dentistry: Learning techniques to assist in the prevention of dental diseases.
- Dental Practice Management: Gaining insights into the administrative functions of a dental office.
- Coronal Polishing: Developing skills in polishing the coronal portion of teeth.
The program is structured to be completed in approximately 45 weeks, totaling 43 credit units. Classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday, with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions available to accommodate diverse student needs.
Professional Certifications
Upon successful completion, graduates receive a Certificate of Completion along with certifications in:
- Pit and Fissure Sealants
- Dental Radiation Safety
- CPR
- Coronal Polish
- Infection Control
- Dental Law and Ethics
Graduates can also take the Dental Board of California Examination for state licensure. SJVC’s Dental Assisting program is approved by the Dental Board of California, ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Career Opportunities
Well-trained dental assistants have diverse employment opportunities in:
- Dental offices and clinics
- Laboratories
- Correctional facilities
Typical responsibilities include:
- Providing chairside assistance to dentists
- Taking dental impressions
- Performing coronal polishing and fluoride treatments
- Exposing and processing x-rays
- Practicing infection control procedures
- Applying pit and fissure sealants
These roles ensure efficient dental practice operations and optimal patient care.
Admission Requirements
Prospective students must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Achieve a minimum score of 12 on the Wonderlic SLE assessment.
- Be at least 18 years old by the program’s start date.
Additionally, applicants should have reliable transportation, childcare arrangements if necessary, and the ability to dedicate time to academic work outside scheduled class hours.
Tuition and Fees
Here’s the table containing the 2023-2024 academic year expenses data for San Joaquin Valley College-Temecula:
| Category | 2023-2024 |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | |
| Tuition and Fees | $26,377 |
| Living Arrangement | |
| Food and Housing (Off Campus) | $21,590 |
| Other Expenses (Off Campus) | $6,880 |
| Other Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $6,880 |
| Total Expenses | |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus) | $54,847 |
| Total Expenses (Off Campus with Family) | $33,257 |
Financial aid options are available for eligible students to help manage these expenses.
Enrollment Process
To enroll in the Dental Assisting program at SJVC Temecula:
- Application: Complete the online application through the SJVC website.
- Assessment: Schedule and take the Wonderlic SLE assessment.
- Interview: Conduct an admissions interview to discuss your goals and program suitability.
- Enrollment: Upon acceptance, complete the enrollment agreement and attend orientation.
For detailed information and assistance, prospective students can contact the Temecula campus at (866) 544-7898 or visit the SJVC website.
Additional Information
SJVC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education. This accreditation underscores the college’s commitment to providing quality education and training in the dental assisting field.
Embarking on a career in dental assisting through SJVC’s Temecula campus offers a structured pathway to entering the healthcare sector, equipped with the necessary skills and certifications to succeed.