Externship

Course Overview: The Dental Assisting Externship Certification is an immersive, hands-on training program specifically designed for dental assistants to gain real-world experience at one of Dr. Zachary Soard's state-of-the-art dental practices. This externship focuses on the practical application of academic knowledge, fostering professionalism, skill mastery, and patient-centered care.

Course Duration: 120 hours (spread over 4 weeks)

• Demonstrate proficiency in assisting with various dental procedures.
• Understand the workflow and operations of a modern dental practice.
• Exhibit professional patient interaction and communication skills.
• Handle dental instruments, materials, and equipment confidently and safely.
• Collaborate effectively with dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, and other dental assistants.

Orientation and Practice Workflow:

• Introduction to Dr. Zachary Soard's practice philosophy and protocols
• Tour of the facility and equipment overview

Clinical Assisting:

• Four-handed dentistry techniques
• Assisting in restorative, endodontic, periodontic, orthodontic, and surgical procedures
• Instrument transfer and maintenance

Radiology:

• Digital X-ray capture and interpretation
• Safety protocols and patient positioning

Patient Care and Communication:

• Patient history recording and initial assessment
• Educating patients on oral hygiene and post-procedure care
• Addressing patient anxieties and concerns

Laboratory Procedures:

• Dental impressions and model casting
• Basic prosthetic adjustments and polishing

Infection Control and Sterilization:

• Instrument sterilization techniques
• Maintenance of a clean and safe clinical environment

Administrative Tasks:

• Appointment scheduling and follow-ups
• Basic billing and coding
• Record maintenance and management

Feedback and Reflection:

• Weekly review sessions with mentors
• Constructive feedback and improvement strategies

Assessment and Certification: Throughout the externship, participants will receive continuous feedback on their performance. The final assessment will be a combination of practical evaluations and feedback from the dental team. Upon successful completion, attendees will be awarded the Dental Assisting Externship Certification from Dr. Zachary Soard's Dental Practice.

Materials Provided: Externs will be provided with a detailed guidebook outlining protocols, best practices, and reference materials specific to Dr. Zachary Soard's practice. They will also have access to all necessary dental equipment and instruments during their externship.

Prerequisites: Completion of a formal dental assisting program or nearing completion with a recommendation from an academic advisor.

Note: This externship should be conducted under the guidance and supervision of experienced dental professionals at Dr. Zachary Soard's practice. Regular feedback and mentorship are crucial components to ensure externs gain the maximum benefit from this experience.