Dental Assisting

Dental Assisting - Certificate

Dental student and teacher working with patient

Take the right steps to launch your career as a dental assistant. The Dental Assisting Program at Bellingham Technical College will provide top job training so you’ll learn how to assist dentists in caring for patients and how to work effectively in a dental office.

Choose BTC’s Dental Assisting Program to train for a position as a dental assistant. Learn how to provide patient care, perform office duties and lab work.

Note: The Dental Assisting Certificate Program is not a CODA Accredited Program.

Note: BTC has not made a determination that the Dental Assisting curriculum meets educational requirements for licensure/certification outside of Washington State. We encourage students who plan to work out-of-state to check relevant local licensure/certification requirements.

Employment Information

Data are provided on a program (not credential) level

92% BTC graduate placement rate¹

$37,586 starting annual wage²
$46,634 average annual wage²
$48,485 potential annual wage²

Employment and Wage Data Sources

¹Employment data come from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and reflect WA/OR employment for students enrolled at BTC between 2017-18 and 2019-20. Students are included in the employment rate if they left with a credential. Rates are not shown for programs with fewer than 10 students meeting the above criteria.

²Whatcom County and WA State wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) 2021 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates and reflect 2018-21 employment. Wage data represent occupations that BTC faculty have identified as the most relevant career paths for program graduates. Note that these wages reflect employees with varying educational levels/credentials. For cases in which multiple occupations have been identified by faculty, a weighted percentile is calculated using each occupation’s percentile wage and employment size estimate. Wages are not shown for programs for which occupations do not meet the ESD’s minimum thresholds for publishing. If the program has wage data from the Washington SBCTC that involves shift work, these ESD wages reflect the same number of hours used in the annual wage calculation. Starting wage = 25th percentile, median wage = 50th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

Estimated Books, Tools and Supplies Costs

Tuition Fees and Rates

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

Students interested in the Dental Assisting program should apply to the college and contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with getting started at BTC. A college application and your score on assessment testing and/or previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence.

There is NO application required for this program.

The student navigator will help you plan a course of study. This program will admit students into first quarter core courses in the fall, winter and spring.

Students will be required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. To be considered fully vaccinated, two weeks must have passed since the date of the second dose or first dose for the one-dose vaccine. Due to the nature of dental assisting skills performed in the lab setting, the program can’t accept any exemptions to fully COVID-19 vaccination.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Admissions application and assessment testing in Reading, Math and Writing is required. Your score on the test and/or your previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence. Contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with academic planning.

The Dental Assisting Certificate Program is not a CODA Accredited Program.

Early Program Course Requirements

ACCUPLACER Classic Reading Comprehension 71 or higher OR ACCUPLACER Next Gen Reading 247 or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher.
ACCUPLACER Classic Sentence Skills 71 or higher OR ACCUPLACER Next Gen Writing 245 or higher OR ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
ACCUPLACER Classic Arithmetic 38 or higher OR ACCUPLACER Next Gen 230 or higher OR ABE 050 with a C or higher.

Interested students in the Dental Assisting Certificate should meet with the program navigator.

Physical Requirements

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 35

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes
You are now able to sign up for classes in ctcLink using the class list below. It requires certain steps to work smoothly. Please read and follow the instructions:
Once at the beginning of each session:
- Follow the link below which will open the ctcLink login screen in a new browser tab
- In the new tab login to ctcLink
- Return back to this tab
These steps log you into ctcLink and keep you logged in until you log out manually or close your browser. If you or a public computer it is good security practice to logout and close all browser windows when you are done.
Proceed to ctcLink login in new window
For each class:
- Click on the name of the class below to show future offerings
- Click the 'Find in ctcLink' button below the class you wish to find. (Button will only show if registration is open.)
- A new tab with the ctcLink Class Search tool will open
- Without changing any of the filter options, click the 'Search' button
- Only the specific class you selected will show. If logged in following the steps above, you will be able to register for the class.

Quarter 1
DEN 101 Introduction to Dental Assisting 3 CR
This course provides information relating to the role of the Dental Assistant within the dental team. An introduction to the dental profession including dental ethics and law will be addressed. Course content will include the related biomedical sciences that are the foundation for dental assisting: human anatomy with an emphasis on the oral cavity, plus structures of the head and neck to ascertain their position, relations, structures, and functions. Concepts of oral pathology and oral inspection will be introduced.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher. ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher OR ENGL 092 with a C or higher. ACCUPLACER Arithmetic (238) or MATH 090 with a C or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 M 1:00 PM-4:00 PM McGuinn
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 M 1:00 PM-4:00 PM McGuinn
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 M 1:00 PM-4:00 PM McGuinn
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
DEN 100 Introduction to Dental Assisting 1 CR
This course provides information relating to the role of the Dental Assistant within the dental team. The history of dental assisting, progress of dentistry, and concepts of dental health are included. In addition, college/program policies and strategies for successful learning are incorporated.
Prerequisites:
HT 121 OR BIOL& 160 with a C or higher.
AND
DEN 105 Head and Neck Anatomy 2 CR
Introduction to structure of head and neck region. Emphasis on anatomical structures of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems as pertains to the head and neck. Also includes an overview of microbiology and disease.
Prerequisite:
HT 121 OR BIOL& 160 with a C or higher.
AENGL 100 Applied English 5 CR
This applied English course focuses on the workplace communication skills needed to send, receive, and process oral and written information. Along with a review of writing fundamentals, learners will use principles of clear communication, professionalism, and cultural awareness in occupational contexts. Learners will sharpen their reading, writing, and presentation skills.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher or RDG 085 with a C or higher, and ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher or ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 TTh 8:00 AM-10:10 AM Gernand
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Or higher
AMATH 100 Applied Occupational Math 5 CR
This course emphasizes mathematics used in the professional technical occupations. Students will learn mathematical skills in the following: fractions, decimals, percents, ratios & proportions, U.S. Customary Units and metric measurement systems, basic geometry and elementary algebra. The course will include relevant technical applications and the use of a calculator.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Arithmetic (230) or higher or ABE 050 with a C or higher or approved alternative placement criteria.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 MWF 2:10 PM-3:30 PM Hegeberg
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Or higher
CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication 5 CR
Designed to introduce students to the application of basic interpersonal communication theory, with a focus on achieving success in the workplace. Topics explored include self-awareness, self-disclosure, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, assertiveness, teamwork and group dynamics, conflict management strategies, and communicating in a diverse world.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher or RDG 085 with a C or higher, and ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher or ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 MWF 10:10 AM-11:30 AM Burns
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 2
DEN 106 Fundamentals of Dental Safety 4 CR
The student will gain the knowledge required to maintain a safe dental environment. The course covers the impact of blood borne pathogens and how they relate to the field of dentistry. Also included are federal and state regulations regarding chemical safety, infection control, and medical emergencies in the dental office. This course provides the student with the knowledge needed to operate and maintain typical equipment found in a dental clinic. The student will gain an understanding of the design, function, and maintenance of sterilization equipment, the dental unit, dental instruments and handpieces. This course will also focus on the theory of basic dental assisting principles such as: dental ergonomics, team positioning, instrument transfer and oral evacuation.
Prerequisites:
AMATH 100, AENGL 100 and CMST& 210 all with a C or higher AND DEN 101 or (DEN 100 and DEN 105) all with a C or higher. ATI TEAS scores: Reading 47.6 or higher, Mathematics 46.7 or higher, Science 33.3 or higher, and English & Language Usage 40.0 or higher. Co-requisites: DEN 107, DEN 108, and DEN 109. All second quarter classes must be taken in the same quarter.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 M 8:00 AM-12:00 PM McGuinn
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 M 8:00 AM-12:00 PM McGuinn
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 M 8:00 AM-12:00 PM McGuinn
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
DEN 107 Dental Assisting Radiology 3 CR
This course introduces basic concepts of radiography. The course emphasizes the fundamentals of oral radiography, including techniques, interpretation, quality assurance, ethics and safety in preparation for exposure of images on a radiographic manikin during the lab component of the program.
Prerequisites:
AMATH 100, AENGL 100, CMST& 210, AND DEN 101 or (DEN 100 and DEN 105) all with a C or higher. Co-requisites: DEN 106, DEN 108, and DEN 109. All second quarter classes must be taken in the same quarter.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 T 8:00 AM-11:00 AM McGuinn
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 T 8:00 AM-11:00 AM McGuinn
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 T 8:00 AM-11:00 AM McGuinn
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
DEN 108 Foundations of Clinical Procedures 4 CR
This course introduces the students to various dental terminologies and responsibilities as a dental assistant in the dental operatory. The student will learn about patient preparation, record keeping, delivery of pre and post-op instruction, with the sequence of amalgam and composite procedures, coronal polishing techniques, the sequence of placing dental sealants and an overview of dental specialties. A final unit will help the student to develop a job search plan.
Prerequisites:
AMATH 100, AENGL 100, CMST& 210, AND DEN 101 or (DEN 100 and DEN 105) all with a C or higher. Co-requisites: DEN 106, DEN 107, and DEN 109. All second quarter classes must be taken in the same quarter.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 F 8:00 AM-12:00 PM McGuinn
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 F 8:00 AM-12:00 PM McGuinn
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 F 8:00 AM-12:00 PM McGuinn
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.

DEN 109

Dental Assisting Lab Practicum

6 CR

This course provides hands-on instruction while working with dental manikins. While maintaining a safe dental environment, the student will apply knowledge and skills in: sterilization/disinfection techniques, radiology, patient management, coronal polish and sealant technique, basic lab procedures and chairside assisting in restorative procedures.
Prerequisites:
AMATH 100, AENGL 100, CMST& 210, AND DEN 101 or (DEN 100 and DEN 105) all with a C or higher. Co-requisites: DEN 106, DEN 107, and DEN 108. All second quarter classes must be taken in the same quarter.

Current & Future Offerings:

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	WTh	1:00 PM-6:00 PM	McGuinn
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	T	12:00 PM-1:00 PM	McGuinn
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	WTh	1:00 PM-6:00 PM	McGuinn
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	T	12:00 PM-1:00 PM	McGuinn
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	WTh		McGuinn
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	T	12:00 PM-1:00 PM	McGuinn

Icon Key

Online Asynchronous
Online Synchronous
Hybrid Asynchronous
Hybrid Synchronous
Face-to-Face
Self-Support

Definitions
Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.

Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.

Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.

Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.

View past class requirements for this program.
Select the year closest to the year started, without going over, to see program requirements for a student who started the program that year:

Program Outcomes

Apply academic, technical, and professional skills to effectively contribute to the dental health team.
Apply cognitive retention of dental terminology, theory, and science.
Expose and evaluate intraoral and extraoral radiographs implementing radiation safety and processing skills.
Verify critical thinking, problem solving, and positive work ethics as they directly relate to the Dental Assistant profession.
Validate the importance of National Certification and participation in professional activities and education opportunities.

Employment Outlook

Employment opportunities for dental assistants in Washington State are expected to grow due to rapid employment growth and above average job turnover.

About 93% of BTC Dental Assisting students are employed within nine months of graduation. The average annual wage in this field is $42,682, with an earning potential of about $50,898 per year.

Criminal convictions may restrict or prevent student participation with internships and employment in this industry.

Most dental assistants are employed by private dental offices. Dental assistants may also be employed by orthodontists, periodontists, hospitals, dental schools, state and local public health departments, the military, or in clinics. Although most program graduates work as dental assistants, opportunities may also exist for employment as research assistants or sales representatives.

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	M	1:00 PM-4:00 PM	McGuinn
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	M	1:00 PM-4:00 PM	McGuinn
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	M	1:00 PM-4:00 PM	McGuinn

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	M	8:00 AM-12:00 PM	McGuinn
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	M	8:00 AM-12:00 PM	McGuinn
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	M	8:00 AM-12:00 PM	McGuinn

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	T	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	McGuinn
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	T	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	McGuinn
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	T	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	McGuinn

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	MWF	2:10 PM-3:30 PM	Hegeberg

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	MWF	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Burns

Services are temporarily suspended in Campus Center building.

Dental Assisting

Dental Assisting

Dental Assisting - Certificate

Employment Information

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Early Program Course Requirements

Physical Requirements

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 35

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

View past class requirements for this program.

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support