At New Castle Career Center (NCCC), the Dental Careers program allows students to assist dentists during chair-side procedures and manage routine office duties. Led by experienced Dental Careers Instructor Cara King, this two-year program prepares students for a successful career in the dental field.
“I'm very passionate about the dental field and I enjoy sharing that passion with my students in our Dental Careers program,” Ms. King said.
This year, senior dental students have gained practical experience in various procedures, such as placing amalgam and composite fillings, creating temporary crowns, and crafting custom trays and athletic mouthguards. Junior students discovered knowledge of tooth anatomy, dental professions, and infection control protocols within the dental office.
Combining Classroom Instruction with Hand-On Training
Beyond their classroom learning and hands-on training, students actively engage in community service projects. In early October, they participated in the Day of Caring and Ivy Tech's Trunk or Treat event. Additionally, they will visit preschool and elementary-aged students in February to promote Children's Dental Health Month.
The dental program offers students flexibility and opportunities that lead to internships with community partners. Through job shadowing at local dental offices, students gain valuable hands-on experience. Ms. King states, “Some benefits to a career in the dental field include career growth within the field, flexibility, and job stability. Enrolling in the dental program allows students to see if dental is for them!”
Experiences Lead To Career Success
Alainey Moffitt, a current student in the Dental Careers program, plans to graduate as a dental assistant through the program and pursue the prerequisites for dental hygiene at Ivy Tech while working towards her Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) certification. She has gained a head start in her career while accumulating college credits. Among her favorite experiences are her internship at a local dental office and the hands-on learning in classroom labs.
“The dental career center has been one of the best life experiences. I have learned so much, made many new friends, and started my future career while still in high school,” explained Alainey.
Emma Wampler, a former NCCC Dental Careers student, was inspired to pursue a career in dentistry after a field trip to the NCCC. Now, she is working successfully as a dental assistant. Emma enthusiastically remarked, "I could go on and go about how Dental Careers prepared me for my current career as a dental assistant. I use all of the things we learned in class and practiced in the lab daily.”
Visit nccareercenter.org for more information about the dental careers program and other programs available through the New Castle Career Center.