Minimum Requirements for Chapter 112-approved Programs and Chapters 69- and 74-approved

Programs That Do Not Have CODA Accreditation All Chapter 112-approved Programs, and Chapters 69- and 74-approved Programs that are not accredited by CODA, must: (1) culminate in a diploma or certificate of completion or credential; and (2) consist of an academic program in which: (a) Students must complete a minimum of 936 hours which includes courses in the content areas specified in 234 CMR 4.10(2)(a)1. through 5.: 1. Biomedical sciences content area: a. body structure and function; b. basic concepts of microbiology pertaining to infection control; and c. basic nutrition. 2. Professional dental assisting content area: a. dental materials and instruments; b. dental radiography techniques and safety; c. basic dental and oral anatomy; d. introductory content in oral histology, embryology, pathology, and therapeutics; and e. legal and ethical aspects (dental record keeping, terminology, charting and patient confidentiality); 3. Clinical content area: a. chairside dental assisting and appropriate laboratory procedures; b. patient education and preventive dentistry; c. dental radiographic procedures; d. infection control; and e. assisting in management of dental and medical emergencies; 4. Course work in oral and written communications and basic behavioral concepts; 5. A minimum of 200 hours of clinical experience. (b) Instructors shall hold a degree in dentistry, dental hygiene or dental assisting from a CODA-accredited school or program or hold a current certificate in dental assisting from DANB or other Board-approved certifying body.