Is There a Board Test for Dental in Broward College? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated!)
Okay, so you’re probably wondering if you need to pass some kind of grueling dental board test to become a dental whiz kid after graduating from Broward College. Let’s just say, the answer is a resounding “maybe, maybe not,” depending on your dental ambitions.
Think of it this way: Broward College is like a dental school prep course, like a crash course in all things teeth and gums. You’ll learn the ins and outs of dental hygiene, teeth cleaning, and the art of making those pearly whites shine. You’ll even get to practice your skills on real live patients (hopefully, they’re not too nervous!). But here’s the catch: Broward College doesn’t actually grant you a dental license.
Think of it like this: Imagine you’re learning to drive a car. You take a driving course, learn the rules of the road, and get behind the wheel. But to actually hit the highway and drive legally, you need to pass your driving test. Same goes for the dental world.
Dental Hygiene: Your Ticket to a Sparkling Smile
If you’re going for the Dental Hygiene Associate of Science Degree, you’ll be equipped to take the Dental Hygiene National Board exam. This is like the driving test for dental hygiene, proving you’ve got the skills to do the job. And if you pass, you’ll be eligible to take the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA) state practical licensing exam. That’s the final step to becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) in the Sunshine State!
Dental Assisting: Your “Right-Hand” Person
Now, if you’re aiming for the Dental Assisting Applied Technology Diploma, you’ll be a certified dental assistant. This is like being the co-pilot in the dental world, assisting the dentist with all sorts of tasks, including taking X-rays, prepping instruments, and making sure patients feel comfortable (even if they’re about to have their wisdom teeth removed!). But hold your horses! You’ll need to pass the Dental Assisting National Board-Certified Dental Assistant exam to officially become a certified dental assistant.
Broward College: The Stepping Stone to Your Dental Dreams
So, to answer your question directly, there isn’t a specific “board test” for dental at Broward College. But passing these board exams is crucial to becoming a licensed dental professional in Florida.
Broward College is like a training ground, equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to conquer those board exams and become a dental superstar!
Broward College: Your Dental Hygiene Training Ground
Think of Broward College as your dental bootcamp, where you’ll be put through the paces to become a dental rockstar. You’ll learn the ropes, master the tools, and hone your skills under the watchful eye of experienced instructors.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
- Oral Anatomy and Physiology: You’ll learn all about those pearly whites, from the enamel to the gum line. (Don’t worry, you won’t have to memorize the entire human anatomy, just the dental part!)
- Dental Hygiene Procedures: Time to get your hands dirty (or rather, clean!) You’ll learn how to scale, polish, and remove plaque and tartar, making smiles sparkle.
- Patient Care: You’ll learn how to communicate effectively with patients, answer their questions, and make them feel at ease, even if they’re terrified of needles.
- Radiology and Infection Control: You’ll learn how to safely take X-rays and how to prevent infections in the dental setting.
The HESI: The Gatekeeper to Dental Success
Oh, and did I mention the HESI (Health Education Systems Incorporated) Admission Assessment (A2) Test? This is like the dental hygiene entrance exam. It’s a big deal! You’ll need to ace the reading, grammar, vocabulary, math, and anatomy and physiology sections. Think of it as proving you’ve got the brains to handle the dental curriculum.
Dental Salaries: Big Bucks for Sparkling Smiles
Alright, let’s talk about the big bucks! If you’re thinking about a career in dental hygiene or assisting, you’re in luck. The salaries are pretty sweet, especially in Florida!
Here’s a peek at the average hourly wages for dental assistants and hygienists in Florida:
- Dental Assistants:
- Palm Beach Gardens: $22.62 per hour
- Jacksonville: $22.10 per hour
- Dunedin: $22.06 per hour
- Sarasota: $21.76 per hour
- Clearwater: $21.31 per hour
- Dental Hygienists:
- The Villages: $43.26 per hour
- Tampa: $42.33 per hour
- Jacksonville: $42.12 per hour
- Tallahassee: $41.59 per hour
- Saint Augustine: $41.40 per hour
So, if you’re looking to make a good living and help people achieve their dream smiles, then a career in dental hygiene or assisting might be your ticket!
Broward College: A Dental Gateway to Success
So, there you have it! Broward College is a fantastic starting point for your dental journey. You’ll get the training, the knowledge, and the skills you need to ace those board exams and become a successful dental professional.
And remember, if you’re still wondering if Broward College is the right fit for you, or if you have any questions about the dental hygiene or assisting programs, don’t hesitate to reach out to the college directly. They’ll be more than happy to help you on your path to a sparkling dental career!
Need more information about Broward College’s dental programs or have other questions about a dental career? Connect with us at JobLoving and we’ll help you navigate the world of teeth and gums!