Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) Program (S113)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Preparing students to work as dental assistants for 25 years.
Program Overview
The Dental Assisting program provides the education required to work as a certified dental assistant (Levels I and II). As a student in this program, you will develop the skills, technical knowledge and clinical experience necessary to work in a professional, ethical and collaborative manner in a variety of settings.
Full Description
The one-year Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) (S113) certificate program will prepare you to become a valued collaborative member of the oral health-care team. You will develop competencies related to clinical assisting, oral health education and business administration consistent with national and provincial standards.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada.
Dental assistants promote:
- direct client care
- oral health education
- business administration
As a student in the program, you will develop experience in:
- intra-oral skills
- digital intra-oral imaging
- laboratory procedures
- infection prevention and control protocols
- safety protocols
- business skills
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply to write the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) examination. (Note: Additional fees apply.) Upon successful completion of the examination, candidates are eligible to apply for certification with the Ontario Dental Assistants Association to work as a certified Level II dental assistant in the province of Ontario. See odaa.org for further information about how to become certified as a Level II dental assistant in Ontario.
Interested in this program but need more competitive marks? Consider enrolling in the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas (A109) program.
This program will help you develop new and strengthen existing skills in math, biology, chemistry, physics and communication.
Please note: While successful graduates of the (A109) program will be eligible to apply to this advanced diploma, it does not guarantee entry into this program.
Your Field Education Options
This Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program offers both on-site and off-site work integrated learning opportunities.
In semester 1, the curriculum is focused on building the core skills of a dental assistant while working with mannequins in our on-site, state-of-the-art WAVE Dental Clinic and dental laboratories.
In semester 2, you will build on this foundation by practicing on student peers. You will then progress to practice your consolidated skills with real patients both in the onsite WAVE Clinic and off-site in the community.
Students also have the opportunity to visit the University of Toronto, Faculty of Dentistry and practise their dental assisting skills in the U of T dental clinic.
Typical field education sites include private dental practices, public health units and teaching hospitals.
As we support interprofessional educational opportunities, you will have the chance to collaborate with one of our 13 George Brown College Child Care Centres, where you will teach oral health education to the children, students and staff at a centre as scheduling permits.
Please note: Off-site travel may be required at the students expense. Clinical hours may run from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday–Friday.
Program Specific Computer Requirements
TECHNOLOGICAL REQUIREMENTS/SUGGESTIONS FOR ONLINE LEARNING
As some theoretical classes will be online, it is imperative that you have the recommended technological requirements to be successful. In the section below, you will find prescriptive requirements.
Online Learning microsite will provide you with the tools and resources you will need to be a successful online learner.
Use a computer or device that is 3 years old or newer when possible. This will ensure you can engage with content and your classes with fewer challenges. This means that your system should at least be:
- Windows 10 version 21H2 or newer
- Mac OSX 11 Big Sur and newer
- Linux – chromeOS
- Your computer speed & processors should have a minimum requirement:
- 8 GB RAM
- 2GHz processor
- screen resolution as 1920-by-1080 (Full HD or 1080p)
For evaluation purposes: If your computer does not have a built-in webcam or microphone, you will be required to purchase. The GBC bookstore has good rates on computers, webcams and microphones. (Eg. Camera: Model: Logitech Brio and Model: Logitech C920S).
A good internet connection is required to be successful with online learning. We recommend a speed of 25 mbps or greater for the best experience. If you don't have access to the internet speed required, you can look for affordable alternatives to the large companies for internet and data. Do some research and look into companies like TekSavvy or Lucky Mobile with their unlimited plans. The George Brown libraries also have WiFi hotspots you can borrow for up to 7 days.
Supported Browsers
George Brown supports the following browsers. We recommend using either Google Chrome or MS Edge for the best experience.
- Chrome latest version
- Firefox latest version (Extended Releases are not supported*)
- Microsoft Edge latest version
- Safari latest version (Macintosh only)
You should always use the most current version of your preferred browser. Your browser will notify you if there is a new version available.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Industry
The Ontario Dental Assistants Association states:
“Dental assistants are formally educated oral health-care professionals and vital members of the oral health-care team. Certified dental assistants are often the team member who is instrumental in forging trusting relationships and educating patients from the start to the finish of their appointment, offering comfort and compassion in addition to clinical excellence.
“Dentists rely heavily on the knowledge and expertise of certified dental assistants given their broad dental education, up-to-date knowledge of oral health trends through continuing education, and unique skills acquired through collaboration and experience. In addition, certified dental assistants facilitate the work of the dentist and hygienist.
“ODAA regards dental assistants as being both clinical and administrative assistants. Clinical assistants work chairside and are responsible for preoperative and postoperative clinical procedures. They assist the dentist throughout clinical procedures with consistent attention to patient comfort and safety. Certified dental assistants may also be responsible for exposing radiographs, performing intra-oral procedures and maintaining infection control protocols and procedures in accordance with local and provincial guidelines adhering to safety standards.
“Administrative dental assistants or dental receptionists perform their duties outside the clinical setting and support office administration and clerical protocols. In addition, certified dental receptionists and certified treatment coordinators form strong relationships with patients, assisting them with insurance claims, scheduling, and referrals while also supporting other office operations.
“Dental assistants obtain transferable knowledge and skills that facilitate various employment opportunities in the public health sector, insurance, education, government, sales, and many other service-based occupations and industries. Dental assisting is a recognized profession supported by membership through the ODAA.”
What is a Dental Assistant? | Ontario Dental Assistants Association (odaa.org)
Educational Pathways
Upon successful graduation of the Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program, you may apply to other dental programs at George Brown College. Note that to apply, you must meet the minimum admission requirements for each of the following programs:
While as a graduate of the Dental Assisting program you will not be given priority admission, however, you may be eligible for some course exemptions.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
| DENT 1047 | Dental Radiography I |
| DENT 1137 | Infection Prevention & Control for Dental Assisting |
| DENT 1143 | Introduction to the Dental Assisting Profession |
| DENT 1147 | Dental Sciences I |
| DENT 1149 | Dental Materials Theory I |
| DENT 1152 | Clinical Foundations Theory I |
| DENT 1153 | Oral Health & Prevention I |
| DENT 1154 | Clinical Foundations Practical I |
| DENT 1155 | Laboratory Procedures I |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| DENT 1049 | Business Office Skills |
| DENT 1051 | Dental Radiography II |
| DENT 1148 | Dental Assisting Consolidation |
| DENT 1156 | Patient Management |
| DENT 1157 | Preparation for Community Placement |
| DENT 2147 | Dental Sciences II |
| DENT 2149 | Dental Materials Theory II |
| DENT 2152 | Clinical Foundation Theory II |
| DENT 2153 | Oral Health & Prevention II |
| DENT 2154 | Clinical Foundations Practical II |
| DENT 2155 | Laboratory Procedures II |
Please note that Dental Assisting is a full-time program. Classes may be scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Students are expected to be on campus Monday to Friday, with the exception of some courses that may have a blended virtual delivery, students should expect to be on campus at least four days out of the week.
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Maintain client and personal safety in the practice environment.
- Contribute to the development of a comprehensive client profile by using a variety of data-collection methods in collaboration with the client and other health professionals and in compliance with privacy legislation.
- Contribute to the development of a comprehensive plan for oral health services and programs in collaboration with the client and other health professionals.
- Provide oral health services and programs, as identified in the comprehensive plan and as permitted within the scope of practice.
- Contribute to the evaluation and reporting of appropriate aspects of the oral health services and program by using a variety of sources, including the client profile.
- Act in a professional and competent manner.
- Maintain client records and manage office procedures in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† There will be additional costs to the program, including course manuals, textbooks/digital learning resources, appropriate laboratory/clinical attire and personal protective equipment that are not included in the tuition.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and the selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**.
- Grade 12 English (C or U) – a grade of 60 per cent or higher is required.
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U) – a grade of 60 per cent or higher is required.
- Grade 11 Biology (C or U) or grade 12 (U) – a grade of 60 per cent or higher is required.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, Math or Science, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English, Math or Science.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Clinical Pre-placement Health Form requirements and program policy
- Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Pre-placement requirements for this program. It will take up to 10 to 12 weeks to complete.
- Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records (such as TDAP shot, MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titres and Two-Step TB Skin Test), proof of clear Vulnerable Sector Check renewed every year, Basic Life Support certificate renewed every year, annual flu shot and mask fit test renewed every two years. These requirements must be submitted by the program specific deadline to ParaMed Placement Pass website.
- COVID-19 vaccination is highly recommended for oral health care workers and those working with vulnerable populations, hospitals, long term care facilities and some community agencies continue to require COVID-19 vaccines for placements. Students who are not vaccinated may not be able to attend external clinical or field placements. As a result, this may pose a risk of meeting the requirements for program completion. The onsite WAVE (Wellness, Applied Learning, Visionary, Education) dental clinic will not require vaccination but it is highly recommended. Use of PPE will be required in all onsite clinics.
- The health policies and non-academic requirements are designed to protect clients and vulnerable populations whom students will engage in practice. Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and non-academic requirements, or who do not submit all required documentation by deadlines established by the program will be excluded from the clinical practicum. Exclusion from clinical practicum for any reason may jeopardize students' academic standing and successful completion of this program.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
- To download the mandatory Pre-placement health form and for more details, go to the Clinical Pre-placement website.
Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)
- In compliance with the requirements of our on-site clinic and our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed every year before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Vulnerable Sector Check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months.
- This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered "vulnerable persons" under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the Vulnerable Sector Check covers appropriateness for "individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s)”.
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" Vulnerable Sector Check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a "not clear" status will jeopardize their progress in the program.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment. The fees for the vulnerable sector check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Clinical Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Contact 416-415-5000, ext. 2367 or E-mail sdhprograms@georgebrown.ca for program information.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) Program (S113)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Preparing students to work as dental assistants for 25 years.
Program Overview
The Dental Assisting program provides the education required to work as a certified dental assistant (Levels I and II). As a student in this program, you will develop the skills, technical knowledge and clinical experience necessary to work in a professional, ethical and collaborative manner in a variety of settings.
Full Description
The one-year Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) (S113) certificate program will prepare you to become a valued collaborative member of the oral health-care team. You will develop competencies related to clinical assisting, oral health education and business administration consistent with national and provincial standards.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada.
Dental assistants promote:
- direct client care
- oral health education
- business administration
As a student in the program, you will develop experience in:
- intra-oral skills
- digital intra-oral imaging
- laboratory procedures
- infection prevention and control protocols
- safety protocols
- business skills
Learning takes place alongside students enrolled in the Restorative Dental Hygiene program.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply to write the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) examination. (Note: Additional fees apply.) Upon successful completion of the examination, candidates are eligible to apply for certification with the Ontario Dental Assistants Association to work as a Level II dental assistant in the province of Ontario. See odaa.org for further information about how to become certified as a Level II dental assistant in Ontario.
Interested in this program but need more competitive marks? Consider enrolling in the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas (A109) program.
This program will help you develop new and strengthen existing skills in math, biology, chemistry, physics, and communication.
PLEASE NOTE: While successful graduates of the (A109) program will be eligible to apply to this advanced diploma, it does not guarantee entry into this program.
Your Field Education Options
This Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program offers both on-site and off-site field education opportunities.
In semester 1, the curriculum is focused on building the core skills of a dental assistant while working with mannequins in our on-site, state-of-the-art WAVE Dental Clinic and dental laboratories.
In semester 2, you will build on this foundation by practising on each other. You will then progress to practise your consolidated skills with real patients both in the WAVE Clinic and off-site in the community. Typical field education sites include private dental practices, public health units and teaching hospitals.
As we support interprofessional educational opportunities, you will have the chance to collaborate with one of our 13 George Brown College Child Care Centres, where you will teach oral health education to the children, students and staff at a centre as scheduling permits.
PLEASE NOTE: Off-site travel may be required. Clinical hours include early mornings that can extend into the evening.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates of this Dental Assisting (Levels I and II) program may apply in the future to other dental programs at George Brown College but must meet the minimum admission requirements for each of the following programs:
Graduates are not given priority admissions based on successful completion of the Dental Assisting program but may be eligible for some course exemptions.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| DENT 1047 | Dental Radiography I |
| DENT 1137 | Infection Prevention & Control for Dental Assisting |
| DENT 1143 | Introduction to the Dental Assisting Profession |
| DENT 1147 | Dental Sciences I |
| DENT 1149 | Dental Materials Theory I |
| DENT 1152 | Clinical Foundations Theory I |
| DENT 1153 | Oral Health & Prevention I |
| DENT 1154 | Clinical Foundations Practical I |
| DENT 1155 | Laboratory Procedures I |
| COMM 1000 | Introduction to College Communication (if necessary) |
| Or | |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| DENT 1049 | Business Office Skills |
| DENT 1051 | Dental Radiography II |
| DENT 1148 | Dental Assisting Consolidation |
| DENT 1156 | Patient Management |
| DENT 1157 | Preparation for Community Placement |
| DENT 2147 | Dental Sciences II |
| DENT 2149 | Dental Materials Theory II |
| DENT 2152 | Clinical Foundation Theory II |
| DENT 2153 | Oral Health & Prevention II |
| DENT 2154 | Clinical Foundations Practical II |
| DENT 2155 | Laboratory Procedures II |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
Please note that Dental Assisting is a full-time program. Classes may be scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Students are expected to be on campus Monday to Friday, with the exception of some courses that may have a blended virtual delivery, students should expect to be on campus at least four days out of the week.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Maintain client and personal safety in the practice environment.
- Contribute to the development of a comprehensive client profile by using a variety of data-collection methods in collaboration with the client and other health professionals and in compliance with privacy legislation.
- Contribute to the development of a comprehensive plan for oral health services and programs in collaboration with the client and other health professionals.
- Provide oral health services and programs, as identified in the comprehensive plan and as permitted within the scope of practice.
- Contribute to the evaluation and reporting of appropriate aspects of the oral health services and program by using a variety of sources, including the client profile.
- Act in a professional and competent manner.
- Maintain client records and manage office procedures in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† There will be additional costs to the program, including course manuals, appropriate laboratory/clinical attire and personal protective equipment that are not included in the tuition.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and the selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U) – A grade of 60 per cent or higher is required
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U) – a grade of 60 per cent or higher is required
- grade 11 Biology (C or U) or grade 12 (U) – a grade of 60 per cent or higher is required
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, Math or Science, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English, Math or Science.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Clinical Pre-placement Health Form requirements and program policy
- Upon confirmation of acceptance into this program, students must meet and complete all the mandatory Pre-placement requirements for this program. It will take up to 10 to 12 weeks to complete.
- Students will need to process and provide proof of their medical records (such as TDAP shot, MMR, Varicella, Hep B blood test reports/titres and Two-Step TB Skin Test), proof of clear Vulnerable Sector Check renewed every year, Basic Life Support certificate renewed every year, annual flu shot and mask fit test renewed every two years. These requirements must be submitted by the program specific deadline to ParaMed Placement Pass website.
- COVID-19 vaccination is highly recommended for oral health care workers and those working with vulnerable populations, hospitals, long term care facilities and some community agencies continue to require COVID-19 vaccines for placements. Students who are not vaccinated may not be able to attend external clinical or field placements. As a result, this may pose a risk of meeting the requirements for program completion. The onsite WAVE (Wellness, Applied Learning, Visionary, Education) dental clinic will not require vaccination but it is highly recommended. Use of PPE will be required in all onsite clinics.
- The health policies and non-academic requirements are designed to protect clients and vulnerable populations whom students will engage in practice. Students who do not comply with the program’s health policy and non-academic requirements, or who do not submit all required documentation by deadlines established by the program will be excluded from the clinical practicum. Exclusion from clinical practicum for any reason may jeopardize students' academic standing and successful completion of this program.
- All costs, service fees and fines associated with the overall health requirements are the responsibility of the student.
- To download the mandatory Pre-placement health form and for more details, go to the Clinical Pre-placement website.
Vulnerable Sector Check requirements and program policy (renew every year)
- In compliance with the requirements of our on-site clinic and our placement partners, all students in this program are required to have a vulnerable sector check completed, and this check must be renewed every year before entering into field or clinical placement.
- The Vulnerable Sector Check process typically takes two to three months, but under some circumstances can take four to eight months.
- This is required to protect the clientele of our placement partner agencies, who are considered "vulnerable persons" under the law.
- Students are responsible for ensuring that the Vulnerable Sector Check covers appropriateness for "individuals being employed and/or volunteering who will be working with vulnerable person(s)”.
- Students are required to keep the original copy of their Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Students who are unable to provide a "clear" Vulnerable Sector Check may not be able to start their field or clinical placement and therefore may be unable to complete the program. Students who are not eligible to attend their practice placement due to a "not clear" status will jeopardize their progress in the program.
- Failure to meet the requirements for field placement will prevent students from completing the program and/or securing employment. The fees for the vulnerable sector check vary and must be paid by the student. For more information, please visit the Clinical Pre-placement website.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Contact 416-415-5000, ext. 2367 or E-mail sdhprograms@georgebrown.ca for program information.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
