Make mouths beautiful! Explore the hands-on, state-of-the-art lab facilities preparing future dental technicians, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
Foundational coursework jump-starts students in one of three dental-related career fields - dental technology, dental hygiene and dental assisting.
Course offerings may vary. Visit your nearest Kirkwood location website or high school for local course options.
DEN-110 | Dental Terminology | 2 credits
Enlists a comprehensive study of dental terminology for dental program preparation, career entry or review. Explains the composition of dental terms by exploring prefix, root combination and suffix divisions. Discusses common dental procedures, practices and disease processes.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-120 | Dental Anatomy | 3 credits
Introduces students to basics of embryology, histology, terms and anatomy of the oral cavity including a detailed study of crown and root morphology of both primary and permanent dentition.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
DEN-130 | Head & Neck Anatomy | 1.5 credits
Utilizes a systems approach to the gross anatomy of the head and neck with emphasis on the maxilla, mandible, oral tissues, neuromuscular and circulatory function, supporting structures and the temporomandibular joint.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
HSC-107 | Professionals in Health | 2 credits
Presents skills and characteristics expected for professional preparation and employability. Provides an overview of the health industry as it relates to health and safety regulations.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
HSC-205 | Exploration of Health Careers | 3 credits*
Explores multiple aspects of health care and careers in the health field. Covers the past, present and future of health care. Introduces key career cluster terms and career pathways within each career cluster. Provides career information, including education required for each area, educational costs to attain a degree versus expected career earnings, job descriptions, case studies and skills needed for specific career areas. Results in BLS CPR certification upon successful completion.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
HSC-210 | Health Skills I | 1 credit
Introduces basic patient care skills: infection control techniques, measuring and recording vital signs, and body mechanics. Laboratory practice and skill achievement is required.
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
*Students may substitute a general education course that aligns with their Allied Health program of choice in place of HSC-205.
Exposure to the dental technology, dental hygiene and dental assisting fields.
Dental Assistant
$39,900
Dental Hygienist
$68,700
Dentist
$193,100
Based on available Iowa salary data at www.bls.gov.
The Kirkwood Dental Academy can lead students to associate's, bachelor's and graduate degrees. Examples of college majors include, but are not limited to: Dental Technology, Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting.
If you are planning to transfer to a four-year college or university after attending Kirkwood, specific transfer information can be found at All About Transferring.