MCOE EXTENDS ENROLLMENT DEADLINE FOR DENTAL ASSISTING PROGRAM
The Mendocino County Office of Education (MCOE) is currently enrolling students for its Dental Assisting Vocational Training Program. Applications are due by September 30 and are available online at www.mcoe.us/student-programs-services/adult-programs/professional-certificates.
Dental assistants are in high demand, locally and nationwide. Dental assistants often work in dental clinics or dental and specialty dental offices performing both administrative and clinical duties. They prepare patients for treatments and teeth cleanings, process x-rays, and work with patients on billing issues, among other responsibilities. For some, becoming a dental assistant is the first step on the road to becoming a more highly trained registered dental assistant.
MCOE’s Dental Assisting Program runs from October through March. Classes are Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:15 pm - 9:15 pm. The 18-week course prepares students for all aspects of front- and back-office dental assisting, including chairside assisting. At the conclusion of the classroom training, students must complete a 120-hour externship with a dental practice. The program costs $4,000 and is limited to eight students.
Applicants in this competitive process must possess a high school diploma or the equivalent and complete a medical screening. Once students successfully complete the program and 11 months of employment, they are eligible to challenge the State Dental Board exam to become registered dental assistants.
For more information about MCOE’s workforce development programs, call 707-467-5123.