Program information is available from the Ask CNM Contact Center at (505) 224-3000 or go to cnm.edu.
Program Description
Dental Assisting is a three-term program accredited by the Commission on Dental Assisting which provides individuals the opportunity to attain the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a dental clinic or dental office. Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to provide basic support under the supervision of a licensed dentist or dental hygienist. Instruction occurs in classrooms, laboratories and dental clinics. It also prepares graduates for state certifications in dental radiographs, pit and fissure sealants, coronal polishing, and topical fluoride application. This program also prepares students for their Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Exam.
Special Requirements
Dental Assisting program is designated as a Limited Entry Program at CNM. Students who wish to pursue Dental Assisting will need to apply and be accepted before they can start the program. Please refer to the Office of Limited Entry Programs for information about 2012 application requirements, selection criteria, and deadlines, which will be different from those used in 2011.
Students must be 18 years of age prior to entering
There is a demand for well-trained dental assistants in the metropolitan area as well as in rural areas across the state. Dental assistants work with dentists or a dental hygienist to promote dental health. In addition, they might find work in private offices, dental clinics, dental supply companies, dental laboratories, hospitals, mobile dental clinics or with school programs.