School of Dentistry
Overview
The IU School of Dentistry offers the following dental programs on the Fort Wayne campus: dental assisting, dental hygiene, and dental technology.
Certified Dental Assisting
The IUFW Certified Dental Assisting Program curriculum includes didactic, laboratory, and clinical courses, as well as clinical experiences in general and specialty practices throughout northeastern Indiana. The professional curriculum is a structured, full-time program beginning each fall semester that prepares students for a career as a dental healthcare professional. Prior to graduation, students are required to successfully pass the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examinations to become a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA). Upon completing program requirements, graduates are eligible to apply for a dental radiology license through the Indiana State Department of Health - Medical Radiology Services Department.
Dental Hygiene
The B.S. in Dental Hygiene program prepares students for a career as a dental health professional who specializes in educational, preventive, and therapeutic oral healthcare. The dental hygiene B.S. program involves one year of prerequisite courses and three years of dental hygiene courses, and combines didactic, laboratory, and clinical courses. The program offers a full-time curriculum that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.
Dental Technology
The dental technician functions within the dental health team much as a pharmacist functions within the medical care team. The technician fabricates appliances to the specification of a work authorization provided by the dentist. It is recommended anyone interested in a career in dental technology spend some time at local commercial dental laboratories to evaluate the day-to-day operation of the dental technician. The program has maintained full accreditation by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation since its beginning in 1972.
