All Chapter 112-approved Programs, and Chapters 69- and 74-approved Programs that are not accredited by CODA, must:

1. (1) culminate in a diploma or certificate of completion or credential; and

2. (2) consist of an academic program in which:

   1. (a) Students must complete a minimum of 936 hours which includes courses in the content areas specified in 234 CMR 4.10(2)(a)1. through 5.:

      1. 1. Biomedical sciences content area:

         1. a. body structure and function;
         2. b. basic concepts of microbiology pertaining to infection control; and
         3. c. basic nutrition.

      2. 2. Professional dental assisting content area:

         1. a. dental materials and instruments;
         2. b. dental radiography techniques and safety;
         3. c. basic dental and oral anatomy;
         4. d. introductory content in oral histology, embryology, pathology, and therapeutics; and
         5. e. legal and ethical aspects (dental record keeping, terminology, charting and patient confidentiality);

      3. 3. Clinical content area:

         1. a. chairside dental assisting and appropriate laboratory procedures;
         2. b. patient education and preventive dentistry;
         3. c. dental radiographic procedures;
         4. d. infection control; and
         5. e. assisting in management of dental and medical emergencies;
      4. 4. Course work in oral and written communications and basic behavioral concepts;
      5. 5. A minimum of 200 hours of clinical experience.
   2. (b) Instructors shall hold a degree in dentistry, dental hygiene or dental assisting from a CODA-accredited school or program or hold a current certificate in dental assisting from DANB or other Board-approved certifying body.