The Administrative Assistant course equips learners with the practical skills and professional confidence needed to excel in front office roles within modern dental practices. Through this 150 hour, job-focused program, students gain hands-on experience with the daily administrative workflows that keep dental offices running smoothly, from patient communication to scheduling, records management, billing, and insurance coordination.
Upon completion, learners will be prepared to sit for the Dental Administrative Assistant Certification through the National Workforce Career Association, an industry-recognized credential that strengthens employment opportunities and supports long-term career growth.
Throughout the program, students will explore essential topics such as dental office operations, terminology, customer service, appointment and records management, HIPAA and OSHA compliance, dental insurance fundamentals, practice management systems, and professional readiness. This comprehensive curriculum ensures graduates are workplace-ready and confident in performing the responsibilities of a dental front office professional.
Module 1: Introduction to the Dental Profession (25 hours)
• Orientation to the dental profession and the role of the Dental Office Assistant
• Professional traits, ethics, and legal standards (HIPAA, OSHA, patients’ rights)
• Dental office design, dental anatomy, numbering systems, and charting methods
• Overview of dental procedures, chairside assisting duties, and infection control
Module 2: Communication Skills in the Dental Office (20 hours)
• Interpersonal and telephone communication techniques
• Overcoming barriers to effective communication and improving patient relations
• Written correspondence, including letter writing and procedural manuals
• Managing organizational conflicts, staff meetings, and delivering outstanding customer
service
Module 3: Managing Dental Office Systems Part 1 (25 hours)
• Introduction to computerized dental practice systems and software selection
• Managing patient clinical records, electronic records, and information systems
• Filing methods, equipment, and supplies for efficient record-keeping
• Risk management and preparing business documents
Module 4: Managing Dental Office Systems Part 2 (25 hours)
• Dental patient scheduling, recall systems, and time-saving functions
• Inventory management, including ordering supplies and equipment
• OSHA compliance, telecommunications, and intraoffice communication
• Managing dental office equipment and the business office environment
Module 5: Financial Arrangements, Collection Procedures & Insurance (25 hours)
• Designing and communicating financial policies
• Managing accounts receivable, insurance coding, and claim filing
• Handling insurance payments, secondary coverage, and government assistance
• Completing dental claim forms and avoiding fraudulent billing practices
Module 6: Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable (30 hours)
• Bookkeeping procedures, including accounts payable and receivable systems
• Verification of expenditures, check writing, and bank statement reconciliation
• Payroll management and financial record organization
• Career strategies, including job search techniques and assessing future opportunities
Upon successful completion of this program, learners will be able to:
• Demonstrate Competence in Office Operations
• Provide Professional Patient Communication & Customer Service
• Manage Scheduling & Appointment Systems
• Maintain Accurate Patient Records and Documentation
• Ensure Compliance With HIPAA, OSHA, and Ethical Standards
• Process Dental Insurance and Claims
• Perform Billing, Payment, and Financial Procedures
• Operate Practice Management Software
• Manage Office Inventory and Supplies
• Demonstrate Workplace Readiness and Professionalism
Upon completion, learners are eligible to sit for the CMAA Certification exam.
This class is an independent-study course. Students will have all the resources needed to successfully complete the course within the online material. A student helpdesk is available for technical support during the course enrollment.