A Career of Smiles

By Susan Anderson, EdD, RDH

We know the value of a nice smile. A nice smile is a confidence-booster, both personally and professionally. A nice smile can change a person’s outlook on life. There’s a way for you to help others achieve and maintain that smile. It’s a rewarding start to a career in the dental field, with room to grow!

Hodges Connect, an initiative of the Professional Education & Training division at Hodges University, has launched the Foundations of Dental Assisting program designed to give you a strong basis of knowledge and practical skills. During the six weeks, students will learn dental terminology, anatomy, instrument sterilization, communication and patient privacy, appointment scheduling, financial arrangements and inventory maintenance.

Students will also learn how to properly mix and prepare dental impression trays and prepare stone models for diagnostic purposes.

A dental career is a way to help others obtain and/or maintain their smile. When you smile, it’s a way to demonstrate friendliness and positive interactions with others. It’s natural for people to be drawn to others who are welcoming and seem happy.

There is also a strong connection between oral health and your overall health. With good, oral care, which includes brushing and flossing your teeth daily, and regular visits to your dentist, you can keep mouth bacteria under control. A lack of good oral care can lead to oral infections like gum disease and tooth decay. Studies have shown that gum disease is linked to chronic health problems like diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Pool oral health in pregnant women has been connected to premature births and low birth weight.

Susan Anderson is the dental hygiene program director at Hodges University.

You can train to become an important part of a dental team, and make a positive impact on patient’s lives.

According to Indeed, the average annual salary in Florida as Dental Assistant is $54,917. For those with less than a year of experience, the average salary is $48,257.
Dental Assistant Program
• 6 weeks
• Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Learn from professionals in the field:
Dentist, Dental Hygienist, Dental Assistant
• CPR/AED certification included
• OSHA and HIPAA training included
• Textbook with bonus materials included
• Hands-on lab simulations in modern dental lab
• All-inclusive tuition: $1199
More information: https://pathways.hodges.edu/courses/dental-assisting/

Hodges Univerity
239-482-0019
pathways.hodges.edu