Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-31

Program overview

Program overview

Build your career in oral health with the Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) Ontario College Certificate program. This program equips you to work professionally, ethically, and collaboratively within a healthcare team to provide essential oral care for clients. By integrating theory and practice, you will learn vital skills such as radiography, lab and chair-side techniques, and oral health education. The program emphasizes the maintenance of a practice environment necessary for effective work in the field. You will gain hands-on experience through both on-site and off-site dental office experiences, including client care in the Algonquin College dental clinic and a 60-hour placement in a private dental office. This one-year program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada, ensuring that you receive a quality education that prepares you for a successful career in dental assisting.

Program structure

The Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a one-year period. The program includes:

  • Integration of theory and practical skills in a collaborative healthcare environment.
  • Hands-on experience through clinical placements in both the Algonquin College dental clinic and private dental offices.
  • Accreditation by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada.
  • Eligibility to write the National Dental Assisting examination upon graduation.

Students will engage in various learning experiences, including:

  • Clinical placements that provide real-world experience in dental settings.
  • Field work placements that enhance practical skills and professional development.

This program is designed to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the dental assisting profession and to provide high-quality care to clients.

Featured Experiences

The Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning process:

  • On-site and off-site dental office experiences to develop practical skills in real-world settings.
  • 60-hour placement in a private dental office, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a professional environment.
  • Hands-on practice in the Algonquin College dental clinic, supervised by Registered Dental Hygienists and Dentists.
  • Integration of theory and practice through various clinical and field work placements.
  • Opportunities to engage with clients and provide direct care, enhancing communication and interpersonal skills.

Career Options

Graduates of the Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

  • Dental Assistant: Work in general and specialty dental practices, assisting dentists with patient care and procedures.
  • Community Health Worker: Provide oral health education and services in community health settings, promoting public health initiatives.
  • Dental Sales Representative: Engage with dental practices to sell dental products and equipment, utilizing knowledge of the industry.
  • Dental Supply Company Representative: Work with dental supply companies to manage inventory and sales, ensuring dental practices have the necessary materials.
  • Oral Health Educator: Educate patients and communities about oral hygiene practices and the importance of dental health.

These roles allow graduates to contribute significantly to the oral health field, ensuring that they can make a positive impact on patient care and community health.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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