Dental Assisting (Levels I and II)
Build your career in oral health.
- Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada
- AC Dental Clinic provides the students with clients on-site to practice their dental assisting skills under the supervision of Registered Dental Hygienists and Dentists
- Graduates are eligible to write the National Dental Assisting exam which, once passed, allows for practicing Level II skills in Ontario
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2024
Yes
Winter 2025
No
Schedule
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Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
The Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) Ontario College Certificate program gives you the ability to work professionally, ethically and collaboratively within a healthcare team to provide oral care for clients. Integrating theory and practice, you learn radiography, lab and chair-side skills, oral health education, and the maintenance of a practice environment necessary for work in the field.
Through on-site and off-site dental office experiences, develop dental assisting skills to perform with competence and safety. Provide client care in the Algonquin College dental clinic and experience a 60-hour placement in a private dental office....(read more)
Overview
Build your career in oral health.
The Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) Ontario College Certificate program gives you the ability to work professionally, ethically and collaboratively within a healthcare team to provide oral care for clients. Integrating theory and practice, you learn radiography, lab and chair-side skills, oral health education, and the maintenance of a practice environment necessary for work in the field.
Through on-site and off-site dental office experiences, develop dental assisting skills to perform with competence and safety. Provide client care in the Algonquin College dental clinic and experience a 60-hour placement in a private dental office.
This one-year Ontario College Certificate program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. Graduates are eligible to write the National Dental Assisting examination, which requires successful completion to practice Level II Dental Assisting skills in Ontario. You may then apply for certification with the Ontario Dental Assistants Association.
Graduates may find work as a dental assistant in:
- general and specialty practices
- community health settings
- dental sales, or
- dental supply companies
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Are self-directed.
- Are critical thinkers.
- Are able to manage time and a demanding workload.
- Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Are detail-oriented, organized and committed to achieving excellence in their work.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BIO4329
Course Name:
Anatomy and Physiology
Course Description:
General knowledge of the human body provides students with a foundation for understanding pathological processes and conditions encountered ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO4335
Course Name:
Microbiology
Course Description:
Knowledge of various microorganisms, their biological behaviour and interactions with the host, are essential to the understanding of infect... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DEN4300
Course Name:
Dental Anatomy
Course Description:
Knowledge of dental terminology is the foundation for understanding and learning the content of other dental-related courses. Students learn... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DEN4396
Course Name:
Preclinic Practicum I
Course Description:
Dental assistants must be able to anticipate, function proficiently and apply concepts of time management when working in a clinical dental ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DEN4453
Course Name:
Dental Radiography
Course Description:
The nature and principles of x-radiation and methods to safely produce diagnostically useful radiographs are essential to being a Healing Ar... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DEN4455
Course Name:
Principles of Dental Assisting
Course Description:
Dental assistants are required to be team oriented and current in their clinic knowledge and skills. An understanding of the characteristics... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
ENL1813S
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0608
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
For this course, students will have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. The options will include cour... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO4327
Course Name:
Oral Sciences
Course Description:
Knowledge of applied sciences of the oral cavity facilitates understanding of oral health and disease. During the dental histology and embry... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DEN4321
Course Name:
Radiography Practicum II
Course Description:
Production of diagnostically useful radiographs requires careful image exposure and processing techniques. Through laboratory practice on ma... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DEN4398
Course Name:
Preclinic Practicum II
Course Description:
The opportunity to apply knowledge of Dental Assisting Level II intra oral skills is required for national certification. Development of com... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
DEN4419
Course Name:
Preclinic Foundations II
Course Description:
Level II dental assistants provide client-centered care in a collaborative team environment. Evidence-based information related to the provi... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DEN4427
Course Name:
Health History Assessment
Course Description:
The knowledge required to understand and interpret a comprehensive health history is essential for dental assistants to facilitate safe and ... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
DEN4447
Course Name:
Oral Health Promotion
Course Description:
Dental assistants require specialized knowledge and skills to effectively communicate the specific information necessary for client oral sel... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DEN4457
Course Name:
Restorative Theory and Practice
Course Description:
Consolidation of chairside dental assisting skills occurs through hands-on assisting with basic restorative procedures performed by register... + Read More
Hours:
54.0
Code:
DEN4461
Course Name:
Dental Materials II
Course Description:
A foundation in materials and techniques related to general and specialty dental practice prepares the dental assistant to work in a diverse... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
DEN4467
Course Name:
Professional Issues and Ethics
Course Description:
Dental assistants must comprehend and adhere to the legal and ethical responsibilities required of a healthcare professional. The history an... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
DEN4325
Course Name:
Dental Office Placement
Course Description:
The opportunity to integrate and apply knowledge associated with the clinical responsibilities of a Level II dental assistant is necessary t... + Read More
Hours:
60.0
Code:
DEN4377
Course Name:
Client Care Practicum Consolidation
Course Description:
Ongoing reflection and discussion of clinical practice and decision-making skills through peer evaluations and case studies, contributes to ... + Read More
Hours:
10.0
Code:
DEN4399
Course Name:
Client Care Practicum
Course Description:
An opportunity to apply knowledge, skills and judgement in the provision of Level II dental assisting oral care services, allows for progres... + Read More
Hours:
36.0
Code:
DEN4437
Course Name:
Oral Health Promotion Outreach
Course Description:
Dental assistants play an important role in the promotion of oral health through communication, behaviour change and teaching and learning s... + Read More
Hours:
10.0
Code:
DEN4439
Course Name:
Dental Practice Management
Course Description:
Dental assistants require a working knowledge of aspects of a dental practice related to dental reception, dental insurance, billing and pra... + Read More
Hours:
15.0
Code:
DEN4463
Course Name:
Dental Specialties
Course Description:
A foundation in procedural and management aspects of client care in dental specialty environments prepares the dental assistant to work in a... + Read More
Hours:
22.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Upon successful completion of the NDAEB examination, graduates may find employment as a Level II Dental Assistant in general and specialty practices, community health settings, dental sales and dental supply companies.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Maintain client and personal safety in the practice environment.
- Contribute to the development of a comprehensive client profile by using a variety of data collection methods in collaboration with the client and other healthcare professionals and in compliance with privacy legislation.
- Contribute to the development of a comprehensive plan for oral health services and programs in collaboration with the client and other health professionals.
- Provide oral health services and programs, as identified in the comprehensive plan and as permitted within the scope of practice.
- Contribute to the evaluation and reporting of appropriate aspects of oral health services and programs by using a variety of sources including the client profile.
- Act in a professional and competent manner.
- Maintain client records and manage office procedures in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
The NDAEB exam fee is $730 at the time of publication (subject to change). Further information may be obtained by browsing the NDAEB website at www.ndaeb.ca.
Hardcopy books, supplies and clinical items (uniforms, clinic shoes, lab coat, gowns, exam gloves, masks and protective eyewear) cost approximately $5,500 (subject to change) for the program duration.
See www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials for more information about books.
Select supplies can be purchased at the campus store.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $50 (subject to change) will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Mathematics, Grade 11 (MBF3C or equivalent) with 65% or higher.
- Biology, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Chemistry, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher.
- All applicants must complete an assessment of their knowledge and skills through the Test Centre, and pay an exam fee. Results from the Algonquin College Health Program Admissions Test (AC-HPAT) will be utilized to establish minimum eligibility and applicant ranking. The AC-HPAT can only be written once per academic cycle. For further information on the HPAT and how to book your assessment, please visit Algonquin`s Test Centre.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
International Applicants:
International applicants who meet the program eligibility requirements are required to complete preparatory courses (4-months in duration): Introduction to Canadian Health Studies (ICHS). Students who successfully complete the introduction will then proceed to their original health program of choice. The ICHS requires applicants to submit an academic IELTS score.
Please click this link for more information: https://www.algonquincollege.com/healthandcommunity/ICHS/.
Accepted applicants must complete ParaMed Requirements:
- Vulnerable Sector Police Check (annual).
- Clinical/Field Pre-Placement Health Form by week 8 of Program Start Date.
- Immunization for Hepatitis B is required.
- Provide evidence of a current Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation Training - C.P.R. Basic Rescuer `C` Level certification. This requirement must remain current until all program requirements have been met.
- Provide evidence of a current Standard First Aid (13-hour course) certification. This requirement must remain current until all program requirements have been met.
- Provide evidence of Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and Ontario Health and Safety Awareness Training certification. These courses meet program requirements and are free to registered students and can be accessed through the Algonquin College website: https://www.algonquincollege.com/safety-security-services/home/occupational-health-and-safety/health-safety-training-resources/. These offerings are free to registered students.
Police Records Check Documentation:
Though not an admission requirement, applicants must note important information listed below regarding Police Records Check program requirements.
Successful completion of clinical placement is a requirement for graduation from the Dental Assisting program. Agencies that provide placement opportunities may require you to have a clear Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS). Your acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency. If you register in the program without a clear PRCSVS and as a result are unable to participate in lab, clinic or placement, you will not be able to graduate.
Lab, Clinic and Placement Eligibility:
To be eligible to participate in lab, clinic and placement activities, you must submit proof of a clear PRCSVS, which will be retained on your departmental file and used only for purposes related to your lab, clinic and placement activities.
It is your responsibility to obtain the PRCSVS from your local Police Department prior to the deadline identified by your Department and to pay any associated costs. It may take 8-10 weeks to obtain this documentation; please submit your application as early as possible.
Should you require further information, contact Lori Morley at morleyl@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 5086.
Application Information
DENTAL ASSISTING (LEVELS I AND II)
Program Code 0608X01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
The program has two intakes, one in September and one in January. The January intake continues through the summer and ends in October.
Please be advised that classes can be scheduled during weekday evenings and on Saturdays.
Academic Year Schedule:
September Program Start:
Level 01: September - December
Level 02: January - April
Level 03: May - June
January Program Start:
Level 01: January - April
Level 02: May - August
Level 03: September - October
Students should be aware that if a course is in a failing position at the end of the term, a Supplemental Privilege (FSP) may be granted, if warranted. FSP evaluations will be scheduled for the week prior to the start of the next term. Students must be available for FSP evaluations during this time period.
Students apply to the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) in the second term of the program to declare their intent to write the national credentialing exam. Graduates from the program must write and pass the NDAEB examination to practise as a Level II Dental Assistant in Ontario.
Links for professional information for the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) can be found at http://www.ndaeb.ca/ or for the Ontario Dental Assistants Association http://www.odaa.org/.
Contact
Tonia Peachman-Faust
Program Coordinator
Jodie O'Brien
Clinic Coordinator
Room J123
A graduate of Cambrian College and the University of Ottawa, Jodie teaches science-related theory courses and is a clinician in the Algonquin College dental clinic. She has practised as a dental assistant and dental hygienist. As a clinical dental hygienist, Jodie worked in an orthodontic and periodotic specialty practice. She is a member of the Canadian Dental Hygienist Association and the Ontario Dental Assistants Association. Jodie was a nominee of the National Capital Educator’s Award in 2008.
Sofia De la Barra
Professor
Room J124
Sofia de la Barra is a full-time Professor at Algonquin College. She is an Honours graduate of the Dentistry Program at the Universidad de Chile (Santiago, Chile). After moving to Canada, she obtained her Dental Hygiene diploma from Algonquin College, and holds a Teacher Development Program certificate of completion from Durham College. Sofia’s teaching philosophy is to facilitate student learning while promoting self-knowledge and social conscience. She strongly believes in the AC values of respect, integrity, learning, and caring. Sofia is also a regular item writer and reviewer for the Federation of Dental Hygiene Regulators of Canada (previously NDHCB), and participates in ongoing professional development activities.
Michelle Atkinson
Professor
Room J125
A graduate of Canadore College and Western University, Michelle is the coordinator of both the dental assisting and dental hygiene programs and also teaches in both programs. Michelle is a current CDHO Council member and a past President of ODHA.