PHILOSOPHY
It is our endeavor to prepare individuals with the knowledge and technical proficiency that will allow them to become immediately employable in a dental office upon graduation. It is our objective to offer the best possible education in the shortest possible time, consistent with proper educational procedures. Students are accepted regardless of sex, race, age, marital status, religious creed, ethnicity or national origin.

There are many opportunities available to well-trained individuals in the dental profession. It is our desire to train chair-side dental assistants to assume the many positions available in the dental fi eld. Modern dentistry requires well-educated dental assistants in four-handed or sit-down dentistry. It is very difficult for dentists today to treat their patients without proper chair-side assistance.

The Arizona School of Dental Assisting is dedicated to the idea or concept of developing efficient, effective dental assistants through a competency-based program.

LEGAL ORGANIZATION

The Arizona School of Dental Assisting is Incorporated and owned by Lisa Stevenson.

HISTORY
The Arizona School of Dental Assisting is an institution developed with the combined efforts of Dr. Enrico DiVito and Lisa Stevenson. Dr. DiVito and Mrs. Stevenson have recognized the need for well-trained, efficient chairside dental assistants and have found difficulty in attracting good assistants throughout his 32-year practice. Mrs. Stevenson has been a dental assistant and instructor for several years and has worked as a chairside assistant since 1981. The Arizona School of Dental Assisting will help prepare individuals to become part of the dental profession and assume a position as a well-respected professional.

PHYSICAL FACILITIES
The Arizona School of Dental Assisting is located at: 4915 West Bell Road Suite #F200 Glendale, Arizona 85308

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION
Applicants that possess a high school diploma or have passed a high school equivalency (GED) test may enter the program. Applicants that do not have either of the two may enter the program with an entrance interview with the school president and a letter of recommendation. Entry will be pending the approval of the school president. Applicants may submit an application for admission in person or by mail. All applications must be submitted prior to the first day of class. If obtained, a copy of your High School diploma or GED and a secondary school transcript will be required. No late enrollments will be accepted. A personal interview is required with the school president prior to admission.

Only applicants who show a real desire to study and whose personal educational background points to enthusiasm to learn will be accepted. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, creed, sex, or national origin.

READMISSION
The director will determine the eligibility for readmission for any student having been suspended by the school for academic reasons. The director/President will determine readmission eligibility for any student having been suspended for attendance problems or disciplinary problems. If eligible, the student may reapply at the beginning of the next term. A completely new application procedure will be required as the application will be considered with other applicants who have applied for a particular course. If accepted, the student will begin at the beginning of the next scheduled term.

EXCEPTION: Any student taking a voluntary leave of absence from the school may re-enter. Students not returning during the next term must start at the beginning of the program and be considered new students (fees may apply).

CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS TRAINING
Any student who has either attended this school or been enrolled in a similar course elsewhere and who has voluntarily ceased his/her training for a period of time may, upon paying the application fee and tuition, be tested and given appropriate credit, provided all other requirements have been met.

The amount of advance standing will be determined by the school after the advance standing exam-ination has been given by the director. The maximum allowable credit is 50% of the total program. The tuition will be reduced accordingly and the student will be informed.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
The Arizona School of Dental Assisting prepares students for entry-level positions as chairside assistants in a dental office. Students will learn proper chairside assisting by practicing the skills necessary to properly pass instruments, mix filling and impression materials, take and develop dental x-rays, sterilize instruments, and maintain a sterile environment.

DENTAL ASSISTING CURRICULUM
The Dental Assisting program involves twelve weeks of “hands on” training where students have an opportunity of practicing the various routine of chairside assisting. At the completion of the twelve-week portion of the training, the students must successfully complete a 40-hour externship in a local dental office.
Classes are offered on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10:00am to 1:00pm. The externship may be completed in one week or may be spread up to a four week period. Course of study includes on a weekly basis:

WEEK

Week I
Week II
Week III
Week IV
Week V
Week VI
Week VII
Week VIII
Week IX
Week X

Week XI
Week XII


Total Hours

SUBJECT

Orientation to the Profession
Initial Clinical Orientation
Dental Anatomy & Physiology
Dental Charting
Sterilization & Infection Control
Dental TX-ray echniques I
Dental TX-ray echniques II
Instrumentation
Dental Materials I
Dental Materials II
Career Development
Advanced Clinical Procedures
Preventive Dentistry
Externship

HOURS

6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6

6
6
40

112

Course Descriptions
Orientation to the Profession

A general overview of the dental profession is given, including a discussion of professional associations, dental specialties, and the role of the dental assistant in the general dental office. Dental ethics is reviewed emphasizing the dental assistant’s obligation to observe established principles. A comparison is made between ethics and jurisprudence. This course includes an introduction to basic infection control, and assistants are taught how to protect the patient, doctor, and themselves.

Initial Clinical Orientation
This course is designed to give the student basic skills in the initial reception, seating, and examination of the patient. Demonstrations are given using basic instruments. Students are taught how to develop a dental x-ray film using the automated processor and how to sterilize instruments. Chair side role-playing situations are created to give students actual experience assisting the doctor.

Dental Anatomy & Physiology
This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding and knowledge of dental anatomy as well as function. The individual characteristics of dental anatomy are studied as well as the human dentition and supporting structures.

Dental Charting
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the methods and symbols used in the dental office to properly record all needed and existing treatments. The classification of cavities is discussed, and students practice preparing dental charts using appropriate symbols and abbreviations.

Sterilization & Infection Control
The importance of maintaining sterility in the dental environment is discussed. Various methods of sanitization, disinfection, and sterilization are practiced. Students are given a broader look at the potential spreading of disease from a dental treatment area and an understanding of protection procedures.

Dental X-ray Techniques I
This course covers the history of radiography, with particular attention given to the potential hazards of radiation. State and OSHA safety laws are discussed, along with procedures for effecting proper protection. The students learn about the different types of dental x-ray units, x-ray film, and the procedure for exposing a bitewing film.

Dental X-ray Techniques II
Students learn how to expose dental periapical x-ray fi lm using the Rinn Bisected-Angle Technique. Film development and mounting are discussed and practiced. Students are given a demonstration of panoramic radiology and gain an understanding of this special procedure.

Instrumentation
This course is designed to provide the student with a fundamental knowledge of the hand, surgical, and rotary instruments used in the dental office. The student will become proficient in setting up trays and passing instruments.

Dental Materials I
This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the dental filling mate-rials commonly used in the dental office. The student will become proficient in the manipulation of filling materials through practice simulating conditions of chair-side role-playing.

Dental Materials II
This course is designed to provide the student with basic knowledge as it relates to dental impression materials, waxes, and gypsum products. Students will see demonstrations regarding the use of impression materials and practice mixing these materials until experience is gained.

Advanced Clinical Procedures (Class Room and Externship)
This takes place almost during the whole duration of the class; students will assume a role-playing status and have the opportunity to put the clinical procedures learned into play. Students will take and develop x-rays, chart dental records, take dental impressions, and sterilize instruments.

Preventive Dentistry
Students will learn to educate patients about proper dental health care. Brushing, flossing, and diet will be discussed along with special dental health techniques.

Externship
The student will spend 40 hours in a dental office (to be completed within 4 weeks) this opportunity is offered to the student for the practical application of all skills learned while in school. The student must abide by the site’s policies and act in a professional manner at all times. If a student is dismissed by the site due to unprofessional conduct it is at the School’s discretion at this point if the student will be allowed to reinstate at another site and finish the program. Any student that does not successfully complete his/hers externship will not be issued a certificate of completion. Students will be assigned to one externship site only and covered under the school’s insurance for a 40-hour period.

TUITION AND FEES
All students enroll for a complete program and pay tuition for the complete program prior to entrance unless other arrangements have been made. Arrangements may be made for students to pay tuition on a monthly basis. Tuition must be paid either prior to entrance or prior to the month in which it is due. A late fee of $50.00 is charged for late payments. Collections fees will be applied to any unpaid tuition and will be the student’s responsibility to pay.

ORTHO PROGRAM CURRICULUM
Admissions Requirements: Successful completion in the General Dental Assisting Course (OR) Minimum of 6 weeks completion in the General Dental Assisting course with an accumulated average of 85% or above to qualify for dual enrollment.

SUBJECT

Introduction to Orthodontics
Orthodontic Imaging and Records
Pre Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic Phases, Status, and Treatment Types
Advanced Concepts: Archwires and Ligatures
Extra-Oral and Intra-Oral Appliances
Clinical Finals Applied Concepts

Externship

Total Hours

HOURS

3
3
3
3
3
3
3

40

64

Introduction to Orthodontics
Define orthodontic treatment, its functions and health benefits. The students will become familiar with the array of orthodontic treatment types and functions for the patient.

Orthodontic Imaging and Records
Students will understand the regulations and requirements for Orthodontic records.
Upon understanding the students will be able to complete a set of Orthodontic records hands on in the clinical setting.

Pre Orthodontic Treatment
An advanced lecture of pre orthodontic treatment, the history of orthodontic evolution and benefits. Mock Scenarios will be given for the students for a clinical understanding of the concepts. Orthodontic separator placement will be demonstrated and clinically placed.

Orthodontic Phases, Status, and Treatment Types
Review of orthodontic front office procedures. Students will become familiar with the scheduling manner, appointment names, and types to allow the entry of a cross-trained individual for the Orthodontic office. Orthodontic treatments will be outlined, demonstrated, and practiced.

Banding and Bonding Techniques
Advanced clinical procedures will be demonstrated. The students will become familiar with the orthodontic banding and coding procedures, protocols, and materials for use.
Utilizing the techniques clinically for band placement and initial bonding protocols.

Advanced Concepts: Archwires and Ligatures
Review of the entry-level archwire and ligature placement. Students will then demonstrate advanced techniques with archwire placement, removal, and ligatures for clinical testing.

Extra-Oral and Intra-Oral Appliances
Students will understand the process of extraoral and intraoral appliance placement movement and patient care to be ready for the orthodontic clinical setting.

Clinical Finals Applied Concepts
Students will demonstrate their knowledge of orthodontic concepts, patient instruction, and appliance function. Additionally, a record of the concepts will be tested and graded for clinical readiness.

Externship
The student is expected to complete 40 externship hours in a dental clinic or equivalent. During this time, the student will participate in orthodontic concepts covered in class. The dental clinic will use the evaluation form to indicate proficiency in the topics covered.

TUITION AND FEES
All students enroll for a complete program and pay tuition for the complete program prior to entrance unless other arrangements have been made. Arrangements may be made for students to pay tuition on a monthly basis. Tuition must be paid either prior to entrance or prior to the month in which it is due. A late fee of $50.00 is charged for late payments. Collections fees will be applied to any unpaid tuition and will be the student’s responsibility to pay.

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
Rejection: If the applicant is denied entry by the school is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

Three-Day Cancellation: An applicant who provides written notice of cancellation within three days (excluding Saturday, Sunday and federal or state holidays) of signing an enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

Other Cancellations: An applicant requesting cancellation more than three days after signing an enrollment agreement and making an initial payment but prior to entering the school is entitled to a refund of all monies paid minus the enrollment fee of $200. I/We understand and agree to pay court costs, attorney fees and a 50% (fifty percent) collection fee on any outstanding balances over (30) thirty days past due. I/We also agree to pay 2% interest per month on any outstanding balances over (30) days past due.

Refund will be issued in 30 days. A written intent of withdrawal must be received by certifi ed mail.

Refund after the commencement of classes
1. Procedure for withdrawal/withdrawal date: A student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide written notice to the Registrar or the Director of the school. The notice is to indicate the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student.

2. Tuition Charges: Tuition charges for the enrollment period (not to exceed 12 months) will be determined based upon the student’s last day of attendance and the resulting percentage of the enrollment period completed. The percentage of the enrollment period completed is determined by dividing the total number of weeks elapsed from the student’s start date to the last day of attendance by the total number of weeks in the enrollment period. Tuition charges and refund amounts for the enrollment period are determined by the % of the clocked hours attempted:

(1)  If the student completes 10% or less, the school may keep 10% of the Tuition charged and will refund 90%.
(2)  If the student completes more than 10% and up to 20%, the school may keep 20% of the tuition charged and will refund 80%.
(3)  If the student completes more than 20% and up to 30%, the school may keep 30% of the tuition charged and will refund 70%.
(4)  If the student completes more than 30% and up to 40%, the school may keep 40% of the tuition charged and will refund 60%.
(5)  If the student completes more than 40% and up to 50%, the school may keep 50% of the tuition charged and will refund 50%.
(6)  If the student completes more than 50%, the school may keep 100% of the tuition charged, and no refund is due.

3. Books and Supplies: There is no refund for equipment, books, supplies or scrubs.

4. Special Cases: In case of prolonged illness or accident, death in the family, or other circumstances that make it impractical for the student to complete the program, the school may make a settlement which is reasonable and fair.

ORIENTATION
Orientation is held on the first day of class. Notifi cation of time and place of orientation is emailed to all students. During orientation, students will be acquainted with the rules and regulations of the school, informed of student services available, familiarized with the facilities, and introduced to instructors and administrators.

ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance is essential for adequate training. Cultivation of desirable work habits is just as important as the acquisition of knowledge and the development of skills needed in a given occupation. Students should train themselves to be present and on time for all classes. Students are responsible for all work missed during an absence and should contact an instructor regarding makeup work. Makeup work shall not be authorized for the purpose of removing an absence.

If a student misses more than two complete classes, the student will be terminated from the training program and must follow the institutional procedure for remittance. NOTE: A complete class is de-fi ned as two three-hour classes. Also, students must be present in both units of the x-ray classes in order to pass the x-ray portion of the class. It is suggested that students arrive on time for all scheduled classes. Any time out of class (tardiness) will be treated as absence time ( 3 Tardies equals 1 absence).

CONDUCT STANDARDS
Since career preparation is the objective of the dental assisting program, the student’s conduct should be that which is normally required in the dental profession. Uses of profanity, alcoholic beverages, or drugs on school property are all grounds for immediate suspension. Neither eating, drinking, nor smoking is permitted in the classrooms. Students may use the outside designated areas during their break time.

Dental Assisting students should conduct themselves in a professional manner consistent with the Code of Ethics of the American Dental Assistants Association. If the student does not conduct themselves in this manner they may be excused by the School President at any time. Any unprofessional conduct by the student or by their friends or family members that directly affect any of the staff members of the school will be grounds for immediate dismissal.

KNOWLEDGE OF RULES AND REGULATIONS
The Arizona School of Dental Assisting reserves the right to change any provision or requirements in this catalog at any time without notice. The school further reserves the right to require a student to withdraw from the school for just cause, defined as any cause deemed detrimental to the school or other students, as determined by the school director.

Students violating the conduct standards will be suspended by the school director. A suspended student may apply for reinstatement after a one-month separation. The decision of the director will be final.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND STANDARDS
Students must adhere to high standards of scholarship. An overall grade of 70 and satisfactory completion of a 40-hour externship is required for graduation. Satisfactory progress is considered a grade point average of 70 or better; unsatisfactory progress is considered an overall average of below 70. If a student receives an I (incomplete) for any training course, it will be factored into their overall grade.

A student will be considered to have unsatisfactory progress and be on probation if his/her average is below seventy. The student will be removed from probation when the overall average is above 70. If a student receives less than a seventy average in three courses, the student will be terminated from the program. If the student wishes to be readmitted to the program, he/she must follow the remittance procedures (additional fees apply).

A

90-100

B

80-89

C

75-79

D

70-74

F

Below 70

I

Incomplete

W

Withdrawal

The overall grade average is obtained by averaging all grades and assigning a letter grade as defined above. A grade of I is a temporary transcript entry that will be treated as an F until changed. A grade of W will be treated as an F until the course(s) is/are completed. Upon completion, Certificates will be mailed.

RECORDS: The school will retain permanent files indefinitely on each student and will include the grade point average, class attendance, externship evaluations, starting and graduation dates, and any other pertinent information.

GRADE REPORTS: Each student is entitled to one copy of his/her transcript if requested by the student at the end of the program if the tuition account has been satisfi ed. Additional transcripts may be obtained with a written request by the student with a $25.00 fee. Certifi cates will be mailed to one address. If not received after 45 days of issue, another Certifi cate will be issued. Duplicate Certifi cates may be purchased for $50.00 each.
MAKE-UP WORK: Students may make up work missed due to excused absence at the discretion of the individual instructor.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL PRIVACY ACT
All students enrolled at the school shall have the right to inspect and review their education records, to request corrections or deletions, and limit disclosure of the records in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The procedure for reviewing records and subsequently correcting or deleting portions of the records may be received from the school director.

DISABILITIES
In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, the school does not discriminate on the basis of disabilities. Persons with disabilities should contact the school to determine if their capabilities will enable them to meet the requirements for graduation.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Graduates of the program receive a certificate of completion upon successful completion of their program of study. A 40-hour externship must be completed within a 4-week period starting from the last day of class. An overall average of 70 is required for graduation.

TRANSCRIPTS
Transcripts are available upon request unless the student is indebted financially to the school. No transcript of grades will be released without the student’s prior approval in writing. Each graduate is issued an official transcript of her/his academic record. Each subsequent transcript or diploma for a graduate or any transcript or diploma for a non-graduate is furnished after receipt of a $50.00 fee. A federal or state agency that periodically requires a transcript in order to determine a student’s progress is exempt from this fee.

PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE
Following graduation, or at any time thereafter, graduates may avail themselves of the school’s placement assistance. Our Outlook coordinator will provide leads for job opportunities. The school will make every effort not only to satisfy the wishes of a graduate as to location and type of employment but also to match his or her particular qualifications to the requirements of the prospective employer. However, no guarantee of employment can be made. Follow-up surveys of both graduates and employers are conducted and maintained for the purpose of improving curriculum and assisting future graduates with employment.

SCHOOL CALENDAR
Classes are continually starting at different times each month. Contact the school director for specific dates included in the school calendar supplement along with a listing of holidays and vacations.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS/BREAKS
Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day (Note: Winter break), Thanksgiving Day, President’s Day, Veterans Day, The 4th of July, Memorial & Labor Day.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
From time to time, circumstances will arise where a student wishes to sit down with the school president and discuss a problem or complaint. Students should feel free to see the president to make an appointment for a convenient time when concerns can be discussed.

If, after discussing your complaint with the school president, you still feel that your complaint has not been resolved, you may follow the review procedures listed below:

1. Write a complete description of your complaint to the School’s President (to be sent by Certified US mail).

2. Within ten days of receiving your written complaint, the school President will appoint a review board consisting of the school President, school director, one instructor, and one student.

3. The review board will meet within fi ve business days of its Appointment and review the written complaint as well as meet with the complainant.

4. The review board will issue a decision within ten days of the final hearing on a particular complaint. The decision of the review board will be final.

NOTICE: If the complaint cannot be resolved after exhausting the institution’s grievance procedure, the student may fi le a complaint with the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education. The student must contact the State Board for further details at the address or website: http://azppse. state.az.us

Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education
1740 W Adams St Suite 3008, Phoenix, AZ 85007 (602) 542-5709

AGENCY SERVICES AND SOURCES
ASDA provides students and counselors of government, tribal, and other agencies with personalized attention, including assistance with funding procedures, contract considerations, required paperwork, and ongoing needs such as progress reporting. Through our extensive involvement with many types of agencies over the past years, we have gained a thorough understanding of processes and procedures for a wide variety of agencies.

Considering our industry experience in combination with our dedication to excellence, we are uniquely equipped to provide Case managers, Counselors, and each student with the utmost level of customer service they deserve.

 

Last updated: April, 2024
© 2024 Arizona School of Dental Assisting