Learn to educate dental patients and assist dentists and hygienists in chair-side procedures by becoming a dental assistant for private dental clinics, specialists’ offices or health centres.

The Dental Assisting program focuses on patient-centred care in support of improving oral health as a key to personal health and well-being.

As vital members of the dental health team, dental assistants work in private dental clinics, specialists’ offices and community health centres. Skills and content covered include clinic operations, chair-side procedures, intra-oral procedures, patient education and interpersonal skills.

Students are required to attend classes on SAIT campus for this program. Classroom learning is integrated into a dental clinic setting. The clinical components include patient education, radiographs, selective rubber cup polishing and fluoride application.

This program includes an unpaid practicum at a dental office.

Is this the right fit for me?
Students who experience success in this program and profession:

Have higher secondary and/or post-secondary grades
Possess basic computer literacy
Are effective at communication in the English language
Are detail-orientated
Enjoy working in a team environment
Accreditation
The Dental Assisting program delivered by SAIT is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada.

Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Dental Assisting certificate.

Graduates must write the National Dental Assisting Examining Board examination to be registered in Alberta. Graduates are licensed by the College of Alberta Dental Assistants as Registered Dental Assistants once they have passed the National Dental Assisting Examining Board examination.

Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a registered dental assistant in:

private dental clinics
specialist offices
community health centres
Related careers include:

dentist
dental hygienist
dental technologist