The Dental Academy at Central High School offers high school students the opportunity to earn entry-level certifications in the dental field, free of charge. With a focus on preparing students for careers in dentistry, the program provides a solid foundation in dental science, anatomy, infection control, and patient care, combined with hands-on experience through internships and community service projects.
Program Highlights
- Practical Experience. Students gain exposure to real-world dental environments through internships at institutions like Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and partnerships with Delta Dental and Essex County College. These opportunities help students build employability skills and experience workplace settings.
- Certifications and College Credits. Participants can earn certifications such as AMP (Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology), ICE (Infection Control Exam), and CPR, while also acquiring college credits. This dual benefit prepares students for advanced studies or immediate entry into the dental field.
Curriculum Overview
Year 1: Foundations of Dentistry
Students begin with an introduction to the dental profession, including dental specialties, science, and legal considerations. The goal is to familiarize students with basic concepts and the history of the field.
Year 2: Advanced Studies
In the second year, the curriculum delves into oral anatomy, physiology, and developmental disturbances. Students learn about the structure and function of teeth and soft tissues, as well as classification systems.
Year 3: Clinical Skills and Safety
The final year focuses on infection control, disease prevention, device processing, and occupational safety. Students also complete a medical terminology course through Essex County College and study pharmacology.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the program can pursue various roles, including:
- Dental Assistant (Entry-level or Certified)
- Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
- Dental Hygienist
- Dentist or Dental Specialist
Additionally, students can explore opportunities in dental sales or as technicians specializing in prosthetics.
Work-Based Learning
Students participate in:
- Internships at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.
- Field trips to dental laboratories and hospitals.
- Mock interviews, job shadowing, and employability mentoring.
- Community service projects, such as school-based dental clinics.
These activities prepare students for a seamless transition to college or the workforce.
Prerequisites
To participate in the program, students must:
- Be enrolled at Central High School.
- Meet grade-level requirements for specific courses in the program sequence.
Why Central High School’s Dental Academy?
The Dental Academy combines academic rigor with practical experience, setting students apart with certifications, college credits, and hands-on training. While the program provides valuable exposure to dentistry, its high expectations require commitment and hard work. For motivated students, the free program offers an unmatched opportunity to launch a successful dental career.
If you’re passionate about dentistry and seeking a head start in the field, the Dental Academy at Central High School is a fantastic choice to build your skills, gain certifications, and explore career opportunities—all while earning college credits and preparing for future success.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | Free for high school students |
| Program Type | High school CTE (Career and Technical Education) program |
| Program Duration | 4 years (grades 9–12) |
| Clock Hours | Not specified |
| Class Schedules | Regular high school schedule with CTE courses integrated |
| Admission Requirements | Enrollment at Central High School |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | No direct placement, but internships and career preparation are included |
| Financial Aid Options | Not applicable (program is free) |
| Location | 246 18th Ave, Newark, NJ 07108 |
| Phone | 973-733-6897 |
| Website | https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/CTL/academics/academies/dental-academy/ |