The Dental Assistant Program at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine is a rigorous, 10-month certificate program designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel as dental assistants. Combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, the program prepares graduates to meet New York State licensure requirements.
Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program offers a mix of instructional, laboratory, and clinical training. Students gain practical experience through rotations at facilities like the Long Island State Veterans Home and Shinnecock Indian Health Center.
- New York State Licensure Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to meet all requirements for New York State licensure as a dental assistant. This includes developing critical skills such as taking impressions, assisting with procedures, and educating patients on dental care.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates can find employment in private dental offices, hospitals, public health departments, and more, making this program ideal for those seeking flexibility in their career paths.
Prerequisites
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal essay detailing interest and goals in dental assisting
- Completed health form and exclusion screening
- $50 non-refundable application fee
Curriculum Overview
The program includes coursework in areas such as dental anatomy, infection control, oral health, and chairside assisting. Students also learn advanced techniques like rubber dam placement, orthodontic band fitting, and dental radiography. The curriculum emphasizes patient care, instrument sterilization, and vital sign monitoring, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for clinical practice.
Financial Information
- Tuition: $6,349, including program fees and technology costs
- Additional Expenses: Books, uniforms, liability insurance, and compliance trackers add approximately $500 to the cost.
- Payment Options: The university offers a Time Option Payment Plan (TOPP) for monthly installments.
It’s important to note that this program does not qualify for federal financial aid.
Why Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine?
Stony Brook’s program stands out for its hands-on clinical rotations, comprehensive preparation for licensure, and its affiliation with prestigious institutions. While the cost is higher than some alternatives, the in-depth training and access to experienced faculty justify the investment. However, the lack of federal financial aid may pose challenges for some applicants.
This program is ideal for students seeking a structured and thorough path to becoming a licensed dental assistant in New York State.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $6,349 (including fees, not including additional expenses) |
| Program Type | Certificate |
| Program Duration | 10 months |
| Clock Hours | Not specified |
| Class Schedules | Full-time |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, personal essay, three recommendation letters |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Not specified |
| Financial Aid Options | Payment plan (Time Option Payment Plan); no federal financial aid |
| Location | 101 South Drive, Stony Brook, NY 11794 |
| Phone | (631) 632-8989 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Stony Brook Dental Assistant Program |