February 12, 2020 | Alberta

Dental assisting graduates from Edmonton and Calgary have good reason to smile after receiving solid marks on their national certification exams.

The graduates from CDI College had a 100 percent passing rate on the National Dental Assisting Examining Board test in December. Their marks were an average of 12 percent above the passing score, and nearly six percent higher than the results for national first-time writers. The exam gauges how ready graduates are to enter the dental profession, testing them on scientific knowledge, clinical procedures, patient care, and other key areas.

“These excellent exam results show the quality of dental assisting education and the dedication of the faculty in providing a high standard of training to our students to become skilled professionals," said Agnes Arevalo, National Dental Program Head, CDI College. "Our graduates’ performance here is a strong indication that they are well prepared for their new careers."

Dental assistants play an important role in dental offices. They prepare treatment rooms and patients for treatment and assist dentists during treatment. This includes preparing and manipulating dental materials, performing infection control procedures, and applying dental dams. They also instruct patients on oral care. The College of Alberta Dental Assistants registers dental assistants in the province.

CDI College students from other parts of the country also scored well on the exams. Students from campuses in Burnaby and Surrey had a 100 percent passing rate. Students from Winnipeg had an 89 percent passing rate.

The Dental Assisting diploma program at CDI College gives students all of the training they need to start careers in the field. Courses cover essential topics including clinical dentistry, diagnostic records, dental radiography, practice management, and more. The program also includes practicum placement experience, giving students the opportunity to use their new skills in a real dental office.

To learn more about CDI College's Dental Assisting program, fill out the REQUEST INFO form.