Lamar State College-Orange
The Dental Assisting program at Lamar State College-Orange (LSCO) is designed to provide students with comprehensive training to become proficient dental assistants. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared for various roles within the dental field, such as chairside assistants, laboratory assistants, scheduling coordinators, insurance clerks, and sales representatives for dental suppliers. Graduates are also eligible to take the Texas State Board registration exam to become Registered Dental Assistants, a requirement for employment in Texas.
Program Details
Duration and Content: The Dental Assisting program consists of a three-semester curriculum that includes a combination of theoretical and practical training. The program requires a total of 34 credit hours, broken down into the following semesters:
- Fall Semester: Courses include Dental Materials, Dental Radiology I, Dental Science, and Chairside Assisting, totaling 13 credit hours.
- Spring Semester: Focuses on Dental Laboratory Procedures, Preventive Dentistry, Dental Radiology Techniques, Dental Office Management, and clinical experience, totaling 17 credit hours.
- Summer Semester: Involves a clinical practice course that amounts to 4 credit hours.
Costs and Requirements
The table below outlines the estimated costs for attending Lamar State College-Orange, including tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for students living off-campus and with family.
| Expense Type | Off Campus | Off Campus with Family |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees (In-State) | $3,884 | $3,884 |
| Tuition and Fees (Out-of-State) | $14,140 | $14,140 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,380 | $1,380 |
| Food and Housing | $12,348 | $2,652 |
| Other Expenses | $3,356 | $3,356 |
| Total (In-State) | $20,968 | $11,272 |
| Total (Out-of-State) | $31,224 | $21,528 |
Additional Requirements
Students must complete a criminal background check and meet health and immunization requirements. The program also requires students to purchase uniforms, shoes, and a name pin for clinical practice.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Dental Assisting program can pursue careers in various dental specialties, including general dentistry, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and oral surgery. Other roles may include administrative positions like dental office management, scheduling coordination, and insurance processing. The skills acquired during the program also prepare students for roles in dental sales and supply.
How to Enroll
Prospective students can apply to the Dental Assisting program through the LSCO website. The application process involves submitting academic transcripts, completing any required prerequisite courses, and meeting the health and immunization requirements. For more information or to begin the application process, contact the LSCO Academic Advising Office at [email protected] or call (409) 882-3340.
Additional Information
The Dental Assisting program at LSCO offers a comprehensive education that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the dental field. To learn more about the program, visit Lamar State College-Orange’s website.