From the moment a patient walks through the door, dental assistants are there to assist in the delivery of quality oral health care and are valuable members of the dental care team. They coordinate care and information between the dentist, patient, and front office staff to ensure patients are treated well and the practice runs smoothly. When the dentist is working on the patient, assistants are often standing by, providing tools and materials to assist the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures. Dental assistants must have a strong foundation in the fundamental areas of dental assisting including: radiographic, clinical and administrative procedures. Depending on the office, state regulations and preferences of the dentist, assistants play a larger clinical or administrative role. On any given day, dental assistants can be found in the lab, office area, or treatment area. Assistants are trusted with patient information and medical records, taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays), taking impressions of patients' teeth and teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health. In addition the dental assistant performs office management tasks that often require the use of a personal computer. Strong communication skills and professionalism ensure the dental assistant with a rewarding job in a growing health care career.
Rising to prominence in the realm of healthcare vocational training is ECPI University's School of Health Science, Medical Careers Institute, located in Newport News. Esteemed for its impressive healthcare certification programs tailored to eager learners, this institution embodies academic advancement and educational vitality in its vibrant Newport News setting, mirroring the dynamism of the healthcare industry. With a commitment to delivering top-tier education, ECPI's faculty comprises seasoned healthcare professionals who seamlessly blend their real-world experience with theoretical teaching. The institute's curriculum represents a fusion of innovative training techniques and respected classical teaching methods, with a predominant focus on healthcare certification programs. Setting high academic standards, the school offers a diverse array of programs, including Medical Assisting, Health Science, Nursing, Dental Assisting, and more. ECPI adopts an interactive-learning approach that promotes active student engagement, combining theoretical lectures with practical hands-on exercises, equipping students with effective concept comprehension as well as valuable collaborative and analytical skills. State-of-the-art facilities at the institution facilitate a seamless transition into professional life, featuring fully-equipped laboratories and comfortable classrooms designed to simulate real work settings, preparing students for the healthcare sector's demands. Bridging the gap between students and employers is a core objective, with robust Placement Services assisting graduates in navigating the job market, and ECPI's extensive healthcare industry network providing invaluable exposure to students. The school's commitment to student development is underlined by its regular organization of professional development workshops, ensuring students not only acquire knowledge and practical skills but also develop well-rounded personalities. In summary, ECPI University's School of Health Science, Medical Careers Institute, shines as a distinguished provider of practical, career-focused healthcare education, standing as a beacon of academic excellence in Newport News and continuing to shape future healthcare professionals, one student at a time.