Dental Assisting

What is a certified dental assistant?

Dental Assistants are important members of the dental health care team who work with dentists in the delivery of dental care to patients. Dental Assistants utilize their knowledge and clinical skills to provide dental care for patients in every practice of dentistry. Dental Assistants use their interpersonal skills to motivate and educate patients on methods to prevent oral disease and to maintain sound oral health. Dental Assistants have one of the most diverse and interesting positions in the dental office.

Graduates of the IU Fort Wayne Certified Dental Assisting (CDA) Program are prepared for:

  • Assisting in general and specialty practices such as orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, pediatrics and endodontics
  • Exposing and processing images
  • Carving dental restorations (fillings)
  • Obtaining impressions and bite registrations for prostheses
  • Applying topical anesthetics and assisting with anesthetic administration
  • Educating patients concerning home care after dental procedures and oral healthcare
  • Completing preventive procedures: dental sealants, coronal polishing, fluoride application, etc.

Dental assisting is a rewarding, fast-paced, and diverse career that focuses on the patient to stay healthy and keep smiling with confidence. The dental team benefits greatly from the additions of educated CDAs in their abilities to anticipate while working chairside, and confidently adapting with procedures and duties necessary to maintain office efficiency.

Wilhemina Leeuw, MS, CDA, Clinical Assistant Professor

How do you become a CDA-program graduate of IU Fort Wayne?

Students in the CDA program will complete three semesters of course work. In addition, students will participate in extramural clinical experiences in general and specialty dental practices. Upon successful completion of the DANB examinations and the IU Fort Wayne CDA program, graduates are board certified and eligible for an Indiana dental radiographer license.

Learn more about the plan of study

Academic advising

As a CDA-program student at IU Fort Wayne, you will work closely with program faculty to select and register for classes that apply toward the program. Program faculty will help monitor your progress and ensure you are on track to complete program requirements.

Learn more about academic advising

Accreditation

The IU Fort Wayne Certified Dental Assisting Program is fully accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (312) 440-4653 or https://www.ada.org/en/coda. Their address is 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678.

Department policies

Infection control

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