Dental Assistant Clinical Practices

Dental Assistant Clinical Practices WVEIS Code 0742

The student within the Dental Assistant Clinical Practices course will focus on knowledge and skills required for the Dental Assistant to function within the areas of radiography and emergency medical care. Current technology will be utilized to master course standards. Students are provided the opportunity to participate in a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO).

Standard 1: Imaging System (0742.S.1)

Students will describe the benefits of imaging systems in the dental office.

Imaging System Objectives Students will: 0742.1.1 Identify imaging systems used for dental purposes. 0742.1.2 Compare the advantages to the patient and staff when using imaging systems.

Standard 2: Radiography Safety (0742.S.2)

Students will describe principles and procedures to minimize radiography risks to the patient and all dental personnel.

Safety and Precautions Objectives Students will: 0742.2.1 Discuss the manufacturer’s responsibilities in relationship to radiography safety. 0742.2.2 Discuss the federal government safety specifications for all manufacturers of dental x-ray units. 0742.2.3 Research the dentist’s responsibilities in radiography safety to the patient and dental team. 0742.2.4 Identify safety responsibilities of the dental assistant. 0742.2.5 Identify the patient’s responsibilities in radiography safety.

Standard 3: Dental X-Ray Film (0742.S.3)

Students will describe the types and usages of dental x-ray films.

Dental X-Ray Film Objectives Students will: 0742.3.1 Identify the composition of dental x-ray film. 0742.3.2 Discuss the film speed. 0742.3.3 Discuss and identify film sizes. 0742.3.4 Identify the internal and external parts of dental film packets. 0742.3.5 Differentiate between intraoral and extraoral radiographs. 0742.3.6 Discuss proper storage for dental film.

Standard 4: Producing Quality Radiographs (0742.S.4)

Students will describe radiographic procedures.

Producing Quality Radiographs Objectives Students will: 0742.4.1 Discuss safety procedures before, during and after a patient is exposed to radiation. 0742.4.2 Identify Bisecting Technique. 0742.4.3 Identify Paralleling Technique. 0742.4.4 List types of film exposures used most commonly in the dental office. 0742.4.5 Identify and list common radiographic errors on an unlabeled diagram. 0742.4.6 Assemble XCP (X-Tension Cone Paralleling) instrument for a periapical and bitewing x-ray. 0742.4.7 Demonstrate a mock x-ray exposure to a mock patient.

Standard 5: Processing Quality Radiographs (0742.S.5)

Students will describe the procedure of developing the dental x-ray.

Quality Radiographs Objectives Students will: 0742.5.1 Discuss the set-up and proper procedures of the darkroom. 0742.5.2 List and explain the procedures for processing x-rays manually. 0742.5.3 List and discuss the procedures for processing x-rays with an automatic processor. 0742.5.4 Identify the composition of the processing solutions (Fixer and Developer).

Standard 6: Mounting Radiographs (0742.S.6)

Students will properly mount x-rays after exposure.

Mounting Radiographs Objectives Students will: 0742.6.1 Match facial landmarks associated with roentgenology to the correct definitions. 0742.6.2 Explain the film requirements for a full mouth series of radiographs for adults and children. 0742.6.3 Differentiate between periapical and bitewing radiographs. 0742.6.4 Describe the correct steps to follow during radiographic exposure. 0742.6.5 Discuss methods and materials used in developing radiographs. 0742.6.6 Develop, mount and file radiographs. 0742.6.7 Evaluate dental radiographs for diagnostic quality.

Standard 7: Emergency Medical Care (0742.S.7)

Students will identify and perform basic emergency medical care.

Emergency Medical Care Objectives Students will: 0742.7.1 Distinguish the four priorities of first aid. 0742.7.2 Explain first aid measures, including symptoms for sudden illness and injury. 0742.7.3 Demonstrate the four methods for the control of bleeding in proper order. 0742.7.4 State the role of the assistant in the administration of oxygen. 0742.7.5 Secure certification for adult, child and infant CPR and choking from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

Standard 8: Vital Signs (0741.S.8)

Students will measure and record vital signs.

Vital Signs Objectives Students will: 0741.8.1 Recognize general characteristics of internal body temperature. 0741.8.2 Identify general characteristics of the pulse and pulse locations. 0741.8.3 Describe general characteristics of respiration. 0741.8.4 Explain general characteristics of blood pressure, defining systolic and diastolic pressure. 0741.8.5 Identify the instruments used to measure vital signs. 0741.8.6 Measure, record and interpret vital signs.

Standard 9: Technology (0742.S.9)

Students will apply knowledge of computers and their use within the dental health care system.

Technology Objectives

Students will: 0742.9.1 Research the options and various Computerized Dental Office Programs utilizing the Internet. 0742.9.2 Integrate the use of Dental Software Programs. 0742.9.3 Integrate the use of software, hardware and the Internet to practice and master standards. 0742.9.4 Utilize the Internet as a resource/research tool.

Standard 10: Student Organization (0742.S.10)

Students will participate in at least one Career and Technical Organization (CTSO).

Student Organization Objectives Students will: 0742.10.1 Participate in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) or SkillsUSA/Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (SkillsUSA/VICA). 0742.10.2 Research the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA) or National Association of Dental Assistants (NADA) as option for state/local membership. 0742.10.3 Apply parliamentary procedure in organizational meetings. 0742.10.4 Demonstrate team membership skill, such as cooperation and leadership. 0742.10.5 Take part in local, state and national dental health care and education projects.