Westchester School for Medical and Dental Assistants

The Dental Assistant Program at the Westchester School for Medical and Dental Assistants (WSMDA) offers students the opportunity to gain foundational skills and hands-on experience in dental care. With flexible schedules and a 600-hour curriculum, this program prepares students for a range of responsibilities in dental offices, clinics, and hospitals.

• Flexible Training Options: Choose between a 20-week daytime program or a 38-week evening schedule to accommodate personal commitments.
• Real-World Experience: Includes 200 hours of externship in dental facilities, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings.
• Certification Opportunities: Graduates are eligible for national certification exams such as the NELDA, RHS, and IC through DANB, though these are optional.

The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical training. Students learn essential skills like dental radiography, infection control, dental anatomy, and office management. Courses are designed to ensure students are well-rounded and prepared to assist in both patient care and administrative roles.

• Chairside Assisting: Hands-on training in dental procedures, instrument handling, and maintaining patient comfort.
• Dental Office Management: Covers insurance claims, record management, and clerical tasks.
• Radiography: Teaches safety precautions, radiograph techniques, and image evaluation.
• Infection Control: Focuses on sterilization methods, disease prevention, and OSHA compliance.

A standout feature of this program is the 200-hour externship, where students gain valuable work experience in real dental offices. This exposure helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, making graduates more job-ready.

To enroll, students must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 17 years old.
• Provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent (e.g., GED).
• Pass the ACCUPLACER exam for ATB (Ability to Benefit) students, achieving specific cut scores in reading, writing, and math.

The school follows an open admissions policy and provides equal opportunities to all applicants. Students must complete a personal interview, submit required documents, and finalize financial arrangements. Financial aid options include FAFSA, grants, and payment plans. Additional funding sources like WIA and ACCESS-VR are also accepted.

Graduates are prepared for roles in dental offices, clinics, hospitals, and public health departments. Skills like patient preparation, x-ray processing, and dental material handling make them valuable team members in various dental care environments.