WINTER 2024
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Dr. John Kiang Rhode Island Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics
A DELTA DENTAL PUBLICATION FOR DENTISTS & THEIR OFFICE STAFF
Shaping tomorrow’s workforce: New dental assistant training program launches in Westerly In an exciting development for healthcare education in Southern Rhode Island, Delta Dental of Rhode Island, Wood River Health, the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner (RIOPC) and the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) have partnered to launch a Dental Assistant training cohort at the Westerly Education Center.
Addressing workforce needs
2024 Rhode Island Mission of Mercy delivers free dental services to 600+ Rhode Islanders
In response to the demand for dental assistants across the country, this program is designed to align with the needs of local employers. Collaborating with Wood River Health, RIOPC,
The 2024 Rhode Island Mission of Mercy
and the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), ensures that the training curriculum is
(RIMOM) two-day free dental clinic provided
directly relevant to the requirements of Rhode Island’s dental practices.
over $375,000 in free dental services to 623
Program highlights The Workforce Dental Assisting Program offers a comprehensive 14-week training course that blends classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience. With space for 15 students, the program guarantees personalized learning opportunities for participants. Students will master essential dental assisting skills, preparing them for a variety of tasks, from patient care to the operational aspects of dental practices. Upon completion, they will qualify to sit for two out of the three Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification examinations, significantly enhancing their employability.
Real-world experience A key feature of this program is the clinical training component, which will take place at Wood River Health in Hope Valley. Under the mentorship of an experienced dental assistant, students will gain invaluable real-world experience, allowing them to apply their classroom
individuals in need. Held on October 5-6 at Providence Community Health Centers, this year marked the clinic’s 10th anniversary and its most impactful yet, with a 34% increase in patients served compared to 2023. Thanks to more than 500 volunteers, including dedicated dentists and oral health care workers, services were provided free of charge on a first-come, first served basis. Services offered included cleanings, X-rays, fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions, with partial denture services offered for the first time since 2019.
knowledge in a professional setting. This hands-on training is critical in preparing students
Since its founding, RIMOM has delivered
for successful careers in dental assisting.
nearly $3.5 million in donated dental
Commitment to community and care At Delta Dental of Rhode Island, we believe that improving access to quality dental care starts with investing in education and workforce development. This partnership not only benefits the students but also supports the dental practices in our community that rely
services to thousands of Rhode Islanders. Delta Dental of Rhode Island has been the premier sponsor since the initiative’s inception.
on skilled professionals, and fostering a well-trained workforce contributes to better oral
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health outcomes for all Rhode Islanders.
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Get involved Applications for January are now open. For more information on the program and how to apply, visit ccri.edu and search for Workforce Dental Assistant Program.