The first step to becoming a successful dental assistant is completing a thorough training program. At The Praxis Institute in Hialeah and Miami, Florida, our Dental Assistant program prepares students for success through hands-on training with experienced instructors, clinical practice, and externships. Here, we discuss how we get our dental assistant students ready for thriving careers. Our Dental Assistant Program is accepted by the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB). Students can apply for the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) certification exam upon graduation.
Comprehensive Curriculum Design
As the industry continues to grow, the need for well-trained dental assistants becomes more critical than ever. These professionals are the backbone of dental practices, supporting both clinical procedures and administrative operations to ensure efficient, high-quality patient care.
The in-depth education provided through our program helps ensure that students graduate with the confidence and competence to excel in their roles. It provides the practical skills and professional development needed to thrive in today’s competitive healthcare environment. Coursework typically includes subjects such as dental terminology, patient care principles, infection control, and office management. These topics help students understand the structure and function of dental practices and the role they play in patient health.
Hands-On Training
One of the most valuable aspects of our dental assistant program is its focus on hands-on training. Students earn 120 hours of practical experience in a dental office during their externship. This real-world experience allows students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to actual patient care scenarios. This includes assisting with procedures, handling instruments, taking X-rays, and practicing infection control protocols.
Clinical practice is essential for building both confidence and competence as a dental assistant. It helps students feel comfortable in fast-paced environments, improves communication skills with patients and staff, and prepares them for the day-to-day responsibilities of working in a dental office.
Specialized Skills Development
In addition to clinical and theoretical training, our dental assistant program focuses on developing specialized skills that are essential in professional dental environments. These include:
Patient Interaction
Effective communication is a cornerstone of quality patient care. Dental assistants learn techniques for clear and compassionate communication, including how to explain procedures, answer questions, and provide reassurance to patients who may feel anxious. Empathy and professionalism are emphasized throughout the training, as well. Dental assistants often serve as the first point of contact in a dental office, so their ability to make patients feel comfortable and respected plays a crucial role in the overall patient experience.
Dental Laboratory Work
Dental assistants often play a supportive role in dental laboratory tasks, which are essential to patient care and treatment planning. While they don’t fabricate dental prosthetics themselves, they assist in preparing materials, handling impressions, and communicating with dental lab technicians.
Students are taught how to:
- Take and pour dental impressions
- Prepare models for crowns, bridges, and dentures
- Handle lab equipment and materials safely
- Understand the workflow between the dental office and the lab
This exposure to dental lab procedures helps students develop a broader understanding of restorative dentistry, enhancing their ability to support dentists and patients effectively.
Apply to The Praxis Institute for Your Dental Assistant Training
Choosing the right school for your dental assistant education is a crucial step toward a successful career in healthcare. At The Praxis Institute, students receive a well-rounded education that combines expert instruction, hands-on experience, and personalized support.
Other reasons why The Praxis Institute stands out include:
- Skilled instructors: Learn from experienced professionals who bring real-world knowledge into the classroom and provide mentorship throughout your journey.
- Financial aid options: Accessible tuition and financial assistance to students who qualify make it easier to invest in their future without overwhelming costs.
- Career services support: From resume building to job placement assistance, The Praxis Institute helps students transition smoothly from the classroom to the clinic.
- Weekly enrollment opportunities: With rolling admissions, you can start your training when it works best for you, and no need to wait for traditional semester start dates.
If you’re looking for success in the dental field, The Praxis Institute offers the tools, training, and support to help you achieve it. To learn more about our Dental Assistant program in Miami and Hialeah, FL, contact us or call us today.
