Northwest Career College School Catalog - 2018

how to successfully navigate communication issues with patients, coworkers and supervisors, and how
to perform treatment plan presentations to improve case acceptance rates.
DA102 – Dental Anatomy and Disease (40 Clock Hours / 4.0 Quarter Credit Hours)
- Prerequisites: None
- Description: This course provides an in-depth review of head, neck, and oral anatomy, knowledge of
which is fundamental to a well-rounded understanding of dental procedures, anesthesia, and pain
control. It continues with a review of the different types of dentition and numbering systems used in
dentistry and a discussion of tooth morphology. The course then provides instruction on the different
manifestations of dental disease, such as dental caries, periodontal disease, and other oral pathologies.
Finally, the course introduces the processes of oral diagnosis and treatment planning.
DA103 – Medical Assessment and Documentation (40 Clock Hours / 4.0 Quarter Credit Hours)
- Prerequisites: None
- Description: This course provides an overview of basic human anatomy, physiology, and pathology; the
principles of general pharmacology; and the basics of nutrition. In that context, this course provides
instruction on the basic components of the patient record, proper documentation of patient medical
histories and vital signs, and the adjustments needed to accommodate patient medication regiments or to
support special needs and medically compromised patients. Finally, the course provides guidance for
properly assisting with medical emergencies in the dental office.
DA104 – Health, Safety, and Infection Control (40 Clock Hours / 4.0 Quarter Credit Hours)
- Prerequisites: None
- Description: This course introduces students to microbiology as it relates to the practice of dentistry,
followed by a detailed review of disease transmission methods and disinfection and sterilization
procedures. It continues with a discussion of waterline management, chemical and waste management,
and quality assurance procedures. The course then provides instruction on the proper use of radiographic
equipment and radiologic safety procedures. Finally, the course introduces the regulatory and advisory
agencies that participate in enforcing standards related to these procedures.
DA105 – Chairside Assisting: General Dentistry (40 Clock Hours / 4.0 Quarter Credit Hours)
- Prerequisites: None
- Description: This course introduces students to chairside assisting in the general dentistry setting,
covering a range of topics from dental operatory equipment, dental hand instruments, and dental
handpieces. It continues with a discussion of restorative materials; dental liners, bases, and bonding
agents; and dental cements. The course then provides instruction on the proper placement and use of
matrix system in restorative dentistry. The course finishes with an introduction to the materials used and
procedures done in the dental laboratory setting.
DA106 – Chairside Assisting: Expanded Functions (40 Clock Hours / 4.0 Quarter Credit Hours)
- Prerequisites: None
- Description: This course introduces students to expanded functions dental assisting. Topics include
impression materials, preventive dentistry procedures such as sealants and coronal polishing, and
fabrication of provisional coverage. It continues with a discussion of various moisture control
50 Northwest Career College, Effective – 03/26/2018