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Application Deadline:

Friday, June 5, 2020 at 5:00p.m.

Submit through email to dentalassisting@dacc.nmsu.edu

Dear Prospective Dental Assisting Student,

Thank you for your interest in the Dental Assisting Program. Our mission in the Dental Assisting Program is to provide our

students with the academic and clinical skills necessary to obtain certification as a National and State Certified Dental

Assistant. The attached documents are designed to assist you in applying for this challenging and rewarding endeavor. Please

call either Martha McCaslin at 575-527-7653, or Rocio Alfaro Miller at 575-527-7709, or go to room 98 DASH for any

further assistance.

The following classes are pre-requisites for the program and it is recommended they be completed before applying to the

program:

Required before applying:

COMM 253G Public Speaking OR

COMM 265G Principles of Human Communication

ENG 111G Rhetoric and Composition

BIOL 154* Introductory Anatomy and Physiology

(*Please note that BIOL 154 is a new pre-requisite and will be given special consideration for the cohort beginning Fall

2017)

Can be taken after entering program:

PSY 201G Introduction to Psychology

AHS 225 Nutrition for Health Occupations

OR

AHS 251 Human Nutrition

OR

HNDS 163 Nutrition for Health

PHLS 150G Personal Health and Wellness

If you have already completed these pre-requisites you may want to take the classes listed below to enhance your knowledge:

DAS 101 Introduction to Dental Assisting

DAS 131 Dental Office Management I

DAS 133 Dental Office Management II

AHS 120 Medical Terminology

COLL 101 College Success

COLL 201 Critical Thinking Preference will be given to students who have successfully completed DAS 101.

Sincerely,

Martha McCaslin Rocío Alfaro Miller Martha L. McCaslin, CDA, MA Rocío Alfaro Miller, CDA, MA

Program Director & Professor, DACC Dental Assisting Instructor, Clinical Coordinator

DASH RM # 98 D DASH RM # 98 F

mmccasli@nmsu.edu rmiller@dacc.nmsu.edu

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DENTAL ASSISTING PROGRAM

ADMISSION PROCESS & SELECTION CRITERIA The student is solely responsible for meeting all deadlines required for admission to the Dental Assisting Program.

This includes, but is not limited to cut-off dates and times for the application process, orientation dates, and

submitting any related information required for program admission. Students are also responsible for notifying the

program coordinator for any address, mailing changes, name changes, and telephone number changes.

REQUIREMENTS:

High School Diploma or GED with minimum GPA of 2.8 (if not attending any college)

Minimum College GPA (if applicable) of 3.0

1. Unless currently enrolled in DACC, Complete Application for Admission to DACC and submit with

admission fee.

2. If you are coming directly from a high school and have not yet attended a college or university use the

forms provided in this packet to arrange for official high school and college transcripts if applicable to be

mailed directly from previous schools to DACC Admissions. (GED scores need to be mailed directly from

the State Department of Education). If you are currently enrolled in college classes then you do not need

your high school transcripts, instead you need to provide copy of STAR Degree check.

3. Contact DACC testing office at 527-7569 to schedule testing. If you have not attended college courses, you

will need to schedule to take the Compass Test or provide ACT scores. If you have not attended any college

courses, you may begin taking general education and related requirement courses. Refer to the DACC

catalog for this information. You may also schedule an appointment with the Advising Office at 527- 7683.

4. Contact Nicole Smith, Data Records Coordinator, DACC Health Science Division, (575) 528-7322,

nsmith@dacc.nmsu.edu for background check process.

5. Submit your application packet by Friday June 5, 2020 at 5:00p.m. Submit through email to

dentalassisting@dacc.nmsu.edu

The Dental Assisting Certificate Program prepares students to become skilled, certified members of the dental

health care team. Dental assistants greatly increase the efficiency of the dentist in the delivery of oral health care

and perform a wide range of tasks requiring both interpersonal and technical skills. The program includes lecture,

supervised lab, open lab times, and clinical practicum experiences. Students who complete the program are eligible

to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and apply to the state of New Mexico Board of Dental Health

for certification in topical fluoride application, dental radiology, coronal polishing and sealant placement. Dental

assisting is a selective program with specific admission requirements and a limited enrollment of between 12 and

20 students. Students must apply for and meet all Doña Ana Community College admission criteria. It is the

responsibility of the student interested in the Dental Assisting Program to contact the Program Director for current

information.

All students admitted to the program must provide proof of current immunizations (to include a TB test-IPPD that

will be valid throughout the clinical practicum portion of the program as well as all age required vaccinations), hold

a current CPR card and maintain current CPR certification throughout the course of the program. Students are

encouraged to maintain or obtain medical insurance throughout enrollment in the program. Students are responsible

for their own medical expenses and if students do not have medical insurance they will be encouraged to obtain

such coverage through the student health center located on NMSU main campus or other entities. Students are also

highly encouraged to become immunized against Hepatitis A and B. The Occupational Safety and Health

Administration of the U.S. Government (OSHA) require that all personnel employed in a dental office who are

occupationally exposed to blood and other potentially infectious materials be vaccinated with the Hepatitis B

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Vaccine (HBV). The vaccine is administered in three doses over a six-month period. Students that elect to not

receive this immunization, at the students expense, must sign a waiver of declination stating they have chosen

to not be vaccinated against these potentially career and life threatening pathogens. During their enrollment

in Doña Ana Community College Dental Assisting Program, it will be the student’s personal responsibility to

present written evidence from their physician that they have either (1) begun the vaccination series, (2) have

completed the vaccination series (3) have been antibody tested and shown to be immune to the Hepatitis B virus or

(4) have a signed waiver on file stating declination of the vaccination.

Dental Assisting Students as well as other health care workers may be exposed to a number of diseases, body fluids,

blood borne pathogens, as well as work related injuries. Any injuries, illnesses, medical treatment, or hospitalization

are the responsibility of the student, not DACC, the Dental Assisting Program, or the clinical affiliate with which

the student is assigned.

Students are responsible for all travel expenses to and from the practicum sites.

Students must maintain a “C” (77% and above) average in all courses to continue in the program and receive

a certificate.

Nature of Work: Dental assistants perform a variety of patient care, office, and laboratory duties. The Dental

assistant works under the supervision of a dentist in preventive or restorative dentistry with individuals who suffer

from injury or disease of the oral cavity. Assistants also sterilize and disinfect instruments and equipment; prepare

tray setups for dental procedures; provide postoperative instruction; and instruct patients in oral health care. Some

assistants prepare materials for making impressions and restorations, expose radiographs, and process dental x-ray

film as prescribed by the dentist. They may also remove sutures, apply topical anesthetics and cavity preventive

agents to teeth and gums, and remove excess cement used in the cementation process of crowns and bridges, and

place rubber dams on the teeth to isolate them for individual treatment.

Laboratory duties: Include making casts of the teeth and mouth from impressions, cleaning and polishing

removable appliances, and making temporary crowns. Dental assistants with office duties schedule and confirm

appointments, receive patients, keep treatment records, send bills, and order dental supplies and materials.

Job Opportunities: Job prospects for dental assistants are good. Employment is expected to grow much faster

than the average for all occupations through the year 2016. The place of employment is in general, specialty

institutional, Public Health, military and civil service practices; as well as in dental insurance networking and dental

supply companies.

Entry Salary: Salary scale varies per area of employment, dental practice (special, general, etc.) and experience.

Latest surveys for starting salary range for the state of New Mexico average from $9.00 minimum to $20.00

maximum per hour. DACC graduates and other graduates from other accredited programs thought the state average

a starting salary of $10.00 to $20.00 per hour. Radiology certified assistants will receive an average of $2.00 more

per hour. Students that do not pass their DANB radiology examination find it harder to find employment. The state

of New Mexico requires that dental health care workers have to be certified to be able to expose patients with

radiation.

Hours: Most dental assistants have a 32-40 hour work week which may include work on Saturday’s or extended

hours in the evening. Almost all dental assistants work in private dental offices and on a national average 1 out 3

work part time, sometimes in more than one dental office.

Dress code and Work Essentials: All of the duties that a dental assistant performs during dental procedures are

viewed not only by the members of the dental team, but also by the patients themselves. Therefore, professionalism

is a must in both language skills and the way in which other members of the dental team are addressed. A Dental

assistant who has high ethical standards will also exhibit punctuality and dependability in working as a team

member. Patients do appreciate a caring attitude for their dental assistant. Assistants must have conservative hair

styles (natural looking), long hair styled up and away from the face and neck. Nails should be cleaned, short and

without nail polish. No artificial nails (which can harbor bacteria), no heavy makeup, no heavy body scents, and

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the only jewelry that is allowed are small stud earrings, one watch, and wedding bands. No piercings allowed. Shoes

have to be comfortable, non-slip, closed toe, no crocks. Students should exhibit professional appearance and conduct

themselves in a professional manner. Due to the practice of dentistry and nature of the patient care and contact,

clinical dental assistants wear protective barriers such as: fluid resistant uniforms (scrubs), gloves, masks, and

protective eyewear when working chairside with patients to protect themselves from blood borne pathogens or

infectious waste and disease transmission, dental assistants will work with radiation and hazards materials, as well

as be involved in the mechanics of patient care and job duties (bending, lifting, twisting, etc.). Precautions and

preventive measures will be taken and followed through state, federal and/or program policies and standards that

pertain to such practices. Uniform costs and patches will have to be paid for by the student. Scrub colors will vary

per year as the program requires. Students will be required to purchase four pairs of scrubs and patches that will be

on each set of scrubs. Scrub colors will be issued on the day of orientation. Do not purchase ahead of time.

PPE will be provided for all students in the DACC Dental Assisting Program.

Students that have been previously enrolled in the dental assisting program or students that have been previously admitted to any other Health and Public Services Division program (special admittance or not) are subject to the following:

They must receive a letter of recommendation from the previously “admitted to” program director stating that the student left said program in “good academic and disciplinary standings and would be considered for reapplication/readmission for that same program.” If the student was previously a dental assisting student the director will draft a memo to be included in the application packet as to the reason why the student was dismissed from the program and the student must have at least a minimum cumulative and/or previous program GPA of “B” (3.0), or better to be considered for admittance/re-admittance.

If a student is reapplying for re-admittance to the dental assisting program this does not consider adjusted credit options. There must also be significant detailed documentation submitted by the student to support the reasons why he/she did not complete the program and is applying again. (i.e.–doctor’s letter of explanation/clearance if for medical reasons, letter from student stating specific reasons for academic failure and their personal plan to address and prevent such failure in the future, etc.) At least two letters of recommendation must also be included: at least one from a local dentist, hygienist, or dental assistant and one from another source - previous employer, college instructor, or program faculty member.

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DENTAL ASSISTING PROGRAM APPLICATION

DOÑA ANA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Name: _____________________________________________ Banner #:____________ LAST FIRST MIDDLE

Mailing address: ____________________________________________________________ STREET

_______________________________________________________________ CITY STATE ZIP CODE

Physical address: ___________________________________________________________ STREET

_______________________________________________________________ CITY STATE ZIP CODE

Phone number: (________) ________________ E-mail address: ______________________ NEEDS TO BE A WORKING NUMBER

County of legal residency: __________________________________________________

PRIOR DENTAL OFFICE/ASSISTING EXPERIENCE: No____ Yes_____

If yes, how many years? _________

High School GPA _______________ (If in 1st semester of college)

College GPA _______________

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, June 5, 2020 before 5:00pm. Submit

through email to dentalassisting@dacc.nmsu.edu

*Incomplete application packets will not

be considered for program acceptance*

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Essay/Resume Requirements- Resume, Letter of Recommendation, and Cover Letter

You are to prepare a professional resume as you would when applying for employment in a dental office. Your cover letter should address your desire to enter the dental assisting program. Your recommendation letter is to be written BY YOU as if you were recommending yourself for the program.

• You must submit a resume

• A cover letter

• And a letter of recommendation

• 12 pitch font, Times New Roman

Essay/Resume Rubric

10 POINTS FOR CONTENT, CLARITY and STYLE of RESUME

10 POINTS FOR GRAMMAR, SPELLING and PUNCTUATION

20 TOTAL POINTS (see page 19 for detailed essay rubric)

Failure to comply with the directions for the essay/resume will result in point deductions.

9

IMMUNIZATION RECORD

(Use only if you need an immunization(s) or to transfer information from another

record. If information is transferred from another record, a provider signature is

required.) PART I – To Be Completed By Student

Last Name First Name Middle

Address (Number and Street) City State Zip

Date of Birth / / Social Security Number / / – / – / / /

Student Banner ID ____/____/____/____/____/_____/____/____/____

Student Status:

Part-time

_____________

Full-time

______________

PART II – The following immunizations need to be started or received before October 15, 2017! Completed and

Signed By Your Health Care Provider if you are RECEIVING an immunization! If you know you have taken

but to not have a record you will need a TITER (blood panel done to check for immunizations).

All information must be in English.

A. M.M.R. (MEASLES, MUMPS, RUBELLA) - Two doses required.

1. Dose 1 given at age 12 months or later / /

2. Dose 2 given at least 28 days after first dose / /

M D Y M D Y

B. V A R I C E L L A - Birth in the U.S. before 1980, a history of chicken pox, a positive varicella antibody, or two doses of vaccine

meets the requirement.)

1. History of Disease: Yes No Or birth in U.S. before 1980: Yes No

2. Varicella antibody: / / Result: Reactive Non-reactive

M D Y

3. Immunization: #1 / / #2 / /_ Given at least 12 weeks after first dose if ages 1 -12

M D Y M D Y years, and at least 4 weeks after first dose if age 13

years or older.

C. TETANUS-DIPHTHERIA-PERTUSSIS - Primary series with DTaP, DTP, DT, or Td, and booster with Td or Tdap in the last ten

years. Health sciences students with patient contact should receive one dose of Tdap at an interval as short as 2 years since last Td as appropriate.

1. Booster: Tdap (preferred) to replace a single dose of Td for booster immunization at least 2-5 years

since last dose of Td, depending on age of patient. (Administer with MCV4 simultaneously if possible):

/ _/

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2. Booster: Td within the last ten years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . / /

D. HEPATITIS A 1. Immunization (hepatitis A)

Dose #1 /_ / Dose #2 /_ /

M D Y M D Y

2. Immunization (Combined hepatitis A and B vaccine)

Dose #1 / / Dose #2 / / Dose #3 / /

M D Y M D Y M D Y

E. HEPATITIS B

(The year you were born determined whether you need 2 or 3 doses.) 1. Immunization (hepatitis B)

Dose #1 /___ / Dose #2 /_ / Dose #3 /_ /

M D Y M D Y M D Y

2. Hepatitis B surface antibody: Date / /

Result: Reactive

Non-reactive _____ F. TUBERCULOSIS SCREENING

(Must be current for at least year.) Categories of high risk students include those students who have arrived within the past 5 years from countries where TB is endemic. It is easier to identify countries of low rather than high TB prevalence. Therefore, students should undergo TB screening if they have arrived from countries EXCEPT those on the following list: Canada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, USA, Virgin Islands (USA), Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, San Marino Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, American Samoa, Australia or New Zealand. Other categories of high-risk students include those with HIV infection, who inject drugs, who have resided in, volunteered in, or worked in high-risk congregate settings such as prisons, nursing homes, hospitals, residential facilities for patients with AIDS, or homeless shelters; and those who have clinical conditions such as diabetes, chronic renal failure, leukemia or lymphomas, low body weight, gastrectomy and jejunoileal by-pass, chronic malabsorption syndromes, prolonged corticosteroid

1. Does the student have signs or symptoms of active tuberculosis disease?

Yes_ ___

No

If No, proceed to 2. If Yes, proceed with additional evaluation to exclude active tuberculosis disease including tuberculin skin testing, chest x-ray and sputum evaluation as indicated.

2. Is the student a member of a high-risk group or is the student entering the health professions?

Yes __________No _______

If No, stop. If Yes, place tuberculin skin test (Mantoux only: Inject 0.1 ml of purified protein derivative [PPD] tuberculin containing 5 tuberculin units [TU] intradermally into the volar [inner] surface of the forearm.) A history of BCG vaccination should not preclude testing of a member of a high-risk group.

3. Tuberculin Skin Test: Date Given: / Date Read: / /

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M D Y M D Y Result: (Record actual mm of induration, transverse diameter; if no induration, write “0”)

Interpretation (based on mm of induration as well as risk factors): positive ___ negative Date of chest x-ray: Month______ Day_____ Year______

4. Chest x-ray (required if tuberculin skin test is positive) HEALTH CARE PROVIDER INFORMATION: (Please attach Business Card) ___________________________ Print Name ____________ ________________________________ Signature _________________________________

Address

________________________

Phone

12

IMMUNIZATIONS

Check first for your injection (shot) records with

• Your Parents

• Your High School Nurses Office

• The County Health Department for the county in which you grew up

• Your Family Physician

Your family physician may able to also provide you with the required injections or titers

(blood levels). Some insurance companies cover.

Where can you get your immunizations? Here are just a few ideas where you can go. DACC

makes no recommendations.

Las Cruces

• NMSU Student Health Center

Corner of Stewart & Breland

Phone: 575-646-1512

Adult immunizations available at the Student Health Center

Call to schedule an appointment. Take a copy of the program requirements and your shot records

to the appointment. Payment is due at time of services. The prices are subject to change at any

time

• Walgreens

Walgreens may carry the immunization you need. Use the website to schedule an appointment.

https://www.walgreens.com/pharmacy/immunization/immunization_index.jsp

TB test

$20.00

Chest X-ray

$58.00

MMR titer (mumps, measles, and rubella)

$109.00

Varicella titer

$32.00

MMR injection (comes as a combination of all 3, there is no separate rubella vaccine)

$85.00

Varicella injection

$135.00

Td $50.00

Tdap $60.00

Hepatitis B (series of three)

$65.00

Hepatitis B titer

$29.00

Seasonal Flu (when available) ~$20.00

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• Ben Archer 1600 Thorpe Rd Phone:(575) 382-9292

• North Main Family Health Center 2611 N Main St Phone:(575) 525-3531

• La Clinica De Familia Inc. www.lcdfnm.org Phone:(575) 521-7181

• Pronto Healthcare Center 1715 Vado Road www.prontohealthcare.com Phone:(575) 233-1125

El Paso, TX

• Tillman Health Center

Clinic Hours & Location

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday

9:00 am to 12:00 pm & 2:30pm – 5:00 pm

222 S. Campbell, Basement Floor, El Paso TX

915-533-3414

The prices are subject to change at any time.

• Westside Health Center

Tues – Fri with alternating Saturdays Plus 4th Saturday of the month

Hours 7:00am – 11:15am & 12:30pm-4:15pm

5195 Mace St, El Paso, TX

(915) 833-0493

Adult Safety Net Vaccines (Uninsured Patients ONLY)

• Hepatitis B, MMR, Td, Tdap - $25.00 per vaccine

• TB Test & Free TB Reading - $9.00

Diptheria Tetanus $25

Hepatitis B $50

MMR $55

TB testing $15 Varicella (Chicken

Pox) $90

Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Titer $35

Measles Titer $25

Mumps Titer $60

Rubella Titer $30

Varicella Titer $30

14

PERFORMANCE

STANDARDS Admission, Progression, and

Graduation

For DACC Dental

Assisting Program

Please read the following performance standards and sign verification page to acknowledge your understanding of

these performance standards. Successful participation and completion of the Dental Assisting Program requires

that the applicant be able to meet the demands of the program and profession. Dental assisting students must be

able to perform academically in a safe, reliable and efficient manner in classrooms, laboratory and clinical

situations. The student must also demonstrate behaviors, skills and abilities in compliance with legal and ethical

standards as set forth by the American Dental Assistants Association Code of Ethics and American Dental

Association.

Doña Ana Community College Dental Assisting Programs are committed to the principles of diversity- student

success and lifelong learning. This program is open to all qualified individuals who apply and complies with the

Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Throughout the program,

students will be acquiring the fundamental knowledge, attitudes, skills and behaviors that will allow them to

successfully complete the program of study and to function as a Certified Dental Assistant.

Students working toward Certification in Dental Assisting must be able to meet these

minimum standards, with or without reasonable accommodation, for successful

completion of their formal training.

STANDARD

GENERAL PERFORMANCE

STATEMENT

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION

Critical Thinking

Demonstrate critical thinking and ethical decision

making under stressful conditions, and demonstrate

the ability to apply quick reaction time in an

emergency situation.

Apply critical thinking processes to solve

problems in the classroom and in the clinical

setting.

- Exercise sound, decision making in class,

laboratory and clinic situations. - Follow safety procedures established for

each class, laboratory and clinic.

- Identify problems and consider alternatives and

consequences of each alternative.

- Be able to self-evaluate and strive to

improve technical skills.

- Take action when necessary.

- Exercise responsibility for decision making.

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Communication (Interpersonal)

Demonstrate ability to relate to others verbally beyond giving and receiving instruction. Cooperate with people from a variety of social, emotional, intellectual, religious, and diverse cultural backgrounds.

- Develop a concern for others, such as classmates, staff, patients, and faculty.

- Cooperate with others and be able to work as a team member.

- Acquire the ability to maintain poise and flexibility in stressful or changing conditions.

- Recognize and respond appropriately to diverse individuals of all ages, genders, races, sexual preferences, socio-economic,

religious and cultural backgrounds.

Communication

(General)

Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly with

patients, physicians, other health professionals, faculty,

family members, significant others, caregivers, and

community or professional groups and colleagues.

Communication includes: verbal and nonverbal

expression, reading, writing, computation, and

computer skills.

Participate, in-class and group discussions.

Respond appropriately to questions from a

variety of sources.

- Display knowledge of basic written

grammar and spelling skills. - Report and record information accurately and

legibly through notes in the patient’s chart. - Explain recommended treatment,

preventive procedures, past operative

treatment instructions and the nature of

disease processes to patient and/or caregiver

in a way that is easily understood.

- Communicate effectively recognizing and

respecting the physical and psychological needs of others.

- Help maintain open communication and a

professional rapport with all patients.

Physical Endurance

Remain continuously on task for several hours while sitting, standing, or moving.

- Sit for extended periods of time.

Tactile

(touch)

Demonstrate sufficient tactile abilities with both

hands to assist in the delivery of patient care.

- Display ability to grasp small instruments and

equipment.

- Transfer instrument to care giver.

Self-Care

Demonstrate the ability to maintain general good

health and self-care.

- Maintain personal hygiene.

- Demonstrate safety habits and work area

neatness.

- Comply with industry health and safety

standards, OSHA guidelines, and

safety data sheets.

- Maintain a lifestyle that is consistent with

one’s educational and professional requirements.

Mobility

Physical abilities sufficient to move form clinic

area to clinic area and maneuver in small spaces,

full range of motion; manual and finger dexterity,

and hand-eye coordination.

- Ability to manipulate and demonstrate

instruments and equipment without

impairment.

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Motor skills

Gross and fine motor skills sufficient to provide safe and effective patient care with instruments and operation of equipment.

Demonstrate a high degree of manual dexterity and the ability to execute motor movements required to provide general treatment and emergency care to patients, adequate strength and ability to perform lifting.

Use various types of instruments and equipment: assist and position patients or lift and operate equipment with necessary strength and dexterity.

Be independent in ability to move quickly and

safely in and around the classroom, laboratory,

and the clinical operatory.

- Provide for patient safety and well-being in

positioning of dental chair, dental light and

x-ray equipment.

- Move from different positions, as required,

to perform chairside clinical skills as well as administer emergency care procedures if required.

- Exhibit manual dexterity sufficient to

manipulate and control small motor driven equipment.

- Perform instrument transfer using only

fingers, wrist and elbow.

- Perform skills with hand

instruments during patient care.

- Perform complex motor tasks necessary to

take alginate impressions, make temporary

crowns, take intraoral radiographs, and

execute other specialty functions as required.

Hearing

Demonstrate functional use of hearing to acquire and

mentally process information that is dictated as part of

a clinical exam or observation.

Hear and understand course information from

faculty and peers. Process information for use in

patient care settings. - Demonstrate active listening.

- Acquire accurate medical history and data

collection verbally from the patient or

guardian.

- Audibly ascertain if a patient is experiencing a

medical emergency.

Visual

Demonstrate visual acuity and normal color vision sufficient for observation and recognition of patient needs to insure safe and effective chairside performance.

- Observe laboratory demonstrations.

- Receive information through visual observation of oral tissues with regard to normal and abnormal conditions.

- Demonstrate normal color vision sufficient to recognize subtle changes in oral conditions.

- Identify different types of instruments.

- Observe and describe the patient’s response to care and evaluate the patient’s level of oral hygiene.

- Recognize colors used to annotate differences in patient chart/record used to indicate types of treatment needed or completed

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Olfactory Ability

(smell)

Olfactory senses sufficient for environment and

patient safety.

- Distinguish smells, which contribute to

environmental safety.

Professional Attitude and

Demeanor

Ability to present professional appearance and

implement measures to maintain own physical and

mental health and emotional stability. Ability to

demonstrate emotional health required for the

unitization of intellectual abilities and exercise

good judgment.

Work under time restraints while performing

multiple tasks. Tolerate and react calmly to

stressful situations. Exercise professional

judgment when prioritizing patient’s needs.

Demonstrate flexibility and team work. Show

concern for others.

Environment Safety

Ability to recognize and protect self, patients and

others from environmental risks and hazards.

Follow standard precautions, safety procedures and

post exposure protocols, works safely with

potentially hazardous body fluids; utilize

disinfectants and cleaning agents; tolerates frequent

hand washing and tolerates wearing of gloves,

masks and safety eyewear.

Organizational Skills

Demonstrate the ability to multi-task and operate in a

logical, sequential, and orderly manner.

Organize required classroom assignments, laboratory work, and extra-curricular activities

each semester into a realistic workable schedule

that will facilitate student learning and success.

- Anticipate and prioritize tasks to be done in

the patient care setting.

Intellectual Abilities

Demonstrate the ability to read, write, speak and

understand English at a level consistent with

successful course completion and with the

development of positive patient-student relationships.

Comprehend and assimilate verbal and written

program / course materials. - Perform simple and repetitive tasks.

- Learn to reconcile conflicting information.

- Use proper punctuation, grammar, spelling

in written work that is neat and legible. - Follow verbal and written

instructions at a 75% or better

level of competency.

Commitment to Learning

Demonstrate a positive attitude toward decision-

making policies and program operating rules and

procedures, as applied, as well as learn new concepts

and abilities within the program’s operational policies

and methods.

Demonstrate initiative, motivation and a

willingness to learn.

- Complete reading assignments and other

activities in a timely manner.

- Complete all work without resorting to

cheating or plagiarism.

- Attend all class, laboratory and clinicals, as

assigned.

- Be consistently punctual to all classes,

laboratories and clinical assignments.

18

Doña Ana Community College Dental Assisting Program

Verification for Performance Standards and ADA Notification for Dental Assisting

By signing below I understand that requiring/requesting accommodations does not exclude me from being

selected to the dental assisting program as long as my accommodations are reasonable and can be met by

program requirements and expectations.

__________________ I have read and I understand the Physical Performance Standards/ Essential

functions specific to the occupation of the Dental Assisting Program.

__________________ By signing the Essential Function of a Dental Assistant form I have

acknowledged that I have the ability to meet the Physical Performance Standards/

Essential function as specified.

_______________________________ Date: ___________________________

Print Name

________________________________________________________________

Signature

The Americans with Disabilities Act bans discrimination of persons with disabilities and in keeping with

this law, DACC makes every effort to insure quality education for all students. It is our obligation to

inform the students of the essential functions demanded by this program and occupation. Students

requiring accommodations or special services to meet physical performance standard of the Dental

Assisting Program should contact the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD). Students with Disabilities: If you have, or believe you have, a disability you may wish to self-identify. You may do so by providing documentation to the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) located in Room 117 at the DACC Central Campus in Las Cruces (Gregg & Espina, Phone: Voice 527-7548, TTY 527-7647). Appropriate accommodations may then be provided for you. Contact us at ssddacc@nmsu.edu with any questions. Information about SSD can be found on our webpage, http://dacc.nmsu.edu/serv/dss/ . If you have a condition which may affect your ability to exit the premises in an emergency or which may cause an emergency during class, you are encouraged to discuss this in confidence with the instructor and/or the Specialist, Services for Students with Disabilities. A brochure, “Self-Disclose, Don’t Presuppose,” is available in Room 117 at the DACC Central Campus in Las Cruces. If you have general questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), call the ADA Coordinator at 527-7545.

___________ I will need to request the following accommodations to meet the physical Performance Standard as specified. I understand that I have to disclose to Students with Disabilities in order to be accommodated. I understand that I will not be accommodated unless it is verified in Students with Disabilities and is requested by that office.

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________Date_________

Performance standards are for your information, please turn in this sheet stating that you have

read and understood the performance standards. Thank you.

19

Statement of Non-Discrimination

Doña Ana Community College does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, color,

disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, retaliation, serious

medical conditions, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, spousal affiliation, or

protected veteran status in its programs and activities, including employment, admissions and

educational programs and activities. Inquiries may be directed to the Office of Institutional

Equity, Title IX, and Section 504 Coordinator. O”Laughlin House, 1130 East University Ave.

Las Cruces, NM 88003; (575) 646-3536; equity@nmsu.edu

To request this document in an alternate format or request a disability accommodation, please

contact student accessibility services.

SAS Locations:

• Central Campus – DAMA Room 117

• East Mesa Campus – DASR Room 104A

Contact Information:

• Office (575)527-7548

• Fax: (575)527-7647

or the NMSU Office of Institutional Equity, (575) 646-3536 equity@nmsu.edu or request accommodations due to a disability (temporary or permanent).

20

Dental Assisting

Program

Prime

Candidate

Proficient

Candidate

Potential

Candidate

Undeveloped

Candidate (Does

not meet criteria)

Total

Points

Possible:

57 Required

Pre-Requisite

Courses

Completed all

courses for

certificate.

(5 classes)

English 111,

BIOL 154,

PHLS 150,Psy

201,

Comm 253/265G,

Nutrition.

(All)

5

Completed more

than min reqs

courses for

certificate.

(3-4 classes)

English 111, BIOL

154, PHLS 150,Psy

201, Comm

253/265G, Nutrition

(or combination of)

3

Completed

minimum required

courses for

certificate.

(2 classes)

English 111

BIOL 154, Comm

253/265G

(Minimum

Requirements)

2

Does not meet

Criteria!

One or less of

Required courses

taken.

One (or no classes)

List Course:

0

IP:

Needs:

Total:

“Enrichment

Courses”

Suggested courses

taken that relate to

dental field.

Completed all

courses offered

to promote

continual

learning in

health field that

relate to dental

assisting.

(7-5 classes)

Introduction to

Dental Assisting,

Dental office

management 131

or 133, medical

terminology,

college success,

critical thinking,

and legal ethics,

(All)

5

Completed most

courses offered to

promote continual

learning.

(4-3 classes)

Introduction to

Dental Assisting, or

dental office

management courses

131 or133,medical

terminology, college

success, critical

thinking, ethics

(or Combination of)

3

Completed some

courses offered to

promote continual

learning.

(1-2 classes)

Introduction to

Dental Assisting,

dental office

management courses

131 or 133, medical

terminology, college

success, critical

thinking, ethics.

(or combination of)

2

Completed none of

courses offered.

(No extra

enrichment courses

taken)

0

Total:

College

GPA

4.0-3.7

25

3.6-3.3

15

3.2-2.8

10

2.7-2.76 (Below 2.76 does not

qualify for program)

5

GPA:

Total:

Total Points:

21

Documentation

Checklist

*Circle Missing: (Proof of County,

Resident, CPR,

Dental Experience,

Immunization, Records

Performance

Standards, Unofficial

Transcripts)

All information

provided by the

student in the

application is

complete and all

the requirements

of the

documentation

have been met.

5

Almost all the

information (*2 or

less) provided by the

student in the

application is

complete and most

of the

documentation has

been provided.

3*

There are several

(*3 or more)

missing documents

required from the

application that the

student did not

provide.

1*

Application was

incomplete and did

not meet the

documentation

requirement for the

program.

(will result in non-

selection for

program)

0

Total:

Resume, Cover

Letter and Letter

of

Recommendation

Highly effective

topic & concluding

sentences

(consistent, clear links to thesis) and

paragraph

structure Very well

organized &

smooth transition from one idea to

the next.

Very clearly highlights main

points to follow

(without providing details) very

smooth flow

between sentences. Clarity

of

sentences/statements.

Correct spelling & grammar used

effectively almost

all of the time complex sentence

structure &

sophisticated vocabulary used

consistently

(Uses correct APA format if

needed)

20

Fairly smooth flow

between sentences is clear & concise &

Relates to entire essay.

Clear summary of main points presented

(with no new data

added) expansive application

offered

Solid understanding of topic demonstrated.

Spelling & grammar

used with considerable

accuracy & effectiveness

Attempts shown at

using complex sentence structure &

vocabulary. (Effective

APA Format)

15

Topic & concluding

sentences included but need to be more

directly linked to

subject. Paragraph structure

poor and choppy in

places. Fairly smooth flow of

summary points.

Uses few purposeful writing strategies.

Spelling & grammar require moderate

editing. (demonstrates

some attention to formatting APA)

10

Connections between

ideas and facts not made,

more explanation of

facts needed. Paragraph structure

unclear.

choppy in places Much more

consideration of

organization required. Uses only simple,

obvious statements.

Does not have coherence in writing.

Is not organized in

writing.

Spelling & grammar

require considerable editing. (demonstrates

limited attention to

formatting APA)

5

Total:

Critical thinking and reasoning skills applied (cover letter and

recommendation letter):

Inferences: Does the writer develop a line of reasoning

explaining well how she/he is arriving at her or his main conclusions?

5 Points each if answered Yes

Yes No

Yes No

22

Reviewers Initials: ___________ Date: __________ Overall Points: ______

(40 total possible)

Candidate: YES NO

Comments:

23

Dental Assisting Application Checklist

Please submit documents listed on checklist in the following order:

1. _____ Dental Assisting Application Checklist

2. _____ Completed Dental Assisting Program Application

3. _____ Signed Verification of Performance Standards and ADA Notification

4. _____ Copy of unofficial transcripts or STAR Report

5. _____ Complete and signed immunization record

6. _____ Copy of current CPR card

7. _____ Proof of county residency- No P.O Boxes

(Copy of utility bill or driver’s license with local physical address)

8. _____ Resume, Cover Letter and Letter of Recommendation

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday June 5, 2020 at 5:00pm. Submit

through email to dentalassisting@dacc.nmsu.edu

*Incomplete application packets will not

be considered for program acceptance*