Dec 05, 2025  
SFCC Catalog 2025-2026 
    
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SFCC Catalog 2025-2026

Dental Assisting, Certificate

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CIP: 51.0601
School of Sciences, Health, Engineering and Math 505-428-1258

This program prepares students to enter the dental profession as entry-level dental assistants. A dental assistant, under the supervision of a dentist, assists chair-side, performs laboratory procedures, exposes and processes dental radiographs, and performs receptionist and secretarial duties. Program completion enables students to take the national board exam and to obtain certification in expanded duty functions as specified by the State of New Mexico.

The Dental Assisting Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.

As a requirement for admission to the program, students must hold a current BLS-CPR certificate. Certificate eligible for Financial Aid.

Students can earn the following degree related to this certificate:

Students can follow the Program Map listed below to complete this certificate:

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Apply the essential and general chair-side skills required of a dental assistant including the methods for infection control.
  • Demonstrate the skills required in performing state-approved advanced/expanded functions for dental assistants including dental radiography, fluoride, sealants, and coronal polishing.
  • Articulate the knowledge and skills pertaining to legal and ethical issues related to dentistry, including compassion, empathy, and sensitivity to patients of different cultural backgrounds.
  • Perform the skills required for management of a dental practice, including managing staff, record-keeping, inventory, payroll, billing, and quality assurance.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of public health education, including the prevalence and incidence of oral diseases.

General Education Requirements: (3 Credits)

Program Requirements: (34 Credits)

*These courses qualify certificate recipients for expanded duty functions as recognized by the State of New Mexico Board of Dental Health.

Related Requirements: (2 Credits)

Choose from the following:

Total 39 Credits

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