Dental Technology, A.A.S.
Entry Time
Fall
Award
Associate of Applied Science degree
2 years (5 terms including summer)
The goal and challenge for a dental technician is to create a restoration that is a perfect match to a patient’s natural tooth. Artistic and creative abilities are valuable assets for a dental technician. By using several technologies, a dental technician improves patients’ quality of life, appearance and health, not to mention creates beautiful teeth and fabulous smiles. Although a majority of the work provided by dental technicians is done independently, they are valued members of the dental team.
Accreditation
The Dental Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of compliance without reporting requirements. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. Graduates are eligible to take the Recognized Graduate examination, which is one of the first steps leading to certification as a certified dental technician (CDT). This examination is administered by the National Board of Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation
312-440-4653
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611-2678
Career Opportunities
With advancements in technology and materials, there is an increased demand for restorative and cosmetic dentistry. As a result, there currently is a great demand for dental technologists. Employment opportunities will be excellent well into the next century (statement from the American Dental Association).
Degree Requirements
| Term 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credit Hours | |
| DEN-120 | Dental Anatomy 1 | 3 |
| DLT-156 | Dental Anatomy Lab | 2 |
| DLT-152 | DLT Oral Anatomy | 1 |
| DLT-251 | Introduction to Dentures | 5 |
| DLT-250 | Foundation of Dental Technology | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Term 2 | ||
| Spring | ||
| DLT-565 | Occlusion | 2 |
| DLT-445 | Orthodontics | 3 |
| DLT-253 | Introduction to Partial Dentures | 5 |
| DLT-255 | Fixed Prosthodontics 1 | 5 |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Term 3 | ||
| Summer | ||
| DLT-353 | Dental Technology Industry | 2 |
| DLT-357 | Digital Dentistry | 5 |
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Microcomputer Literacy 1 | ||
| Information Computing 1 | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Fundamentals of Oral Communication 1 | ||
| Public Speaking 1 | ||
| Communication for Health Care Professionals 1 | ||
| Credit Hours | 11 | |
| Term 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ENG-105 | Composition I 1 | 3 |
| DLT-356 | Fixed Prosthodontics 2 | 5 |
| DLT-351 | Removable Dental Prosthodontics | 5 |
| DLT-851 | DLT Clinic I | 1 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Psychology 1 | ||
| Introduction to Sociology 1 | ||
| Credit Hours | 17 | |
| Term 5 | ||
| Spring | ||
| DLT-451 or DLT-452 |
Advanced Fixed Dental Prosthodontics or Adv Removable Dental Prosthodontics |
12 |
| MAT-772 | Applied Math 1 | 3 |
| Humanities or History/Culture Course 1 | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 18 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 75 | |
- 1
Courses may be taken before beginning the clinical portion of the program.
Optional Courses
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| DLT-450 | Advanced Orthodontics | 8 |
| HSC-103 | Studies in Health Sciences | 1-3 |
Note: Minimum C- required in all Dental Technology classes.