Course Overview

The DENT 200 Series course is a comprehensive six-week training program designed for entry-level and intermediate dental technicians. Divided into three primary content areas, this course equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to troubleshoot, maintain, and repair a variety of dental utilities and support systems. Participants will engage in hands-on learning experiences that focus on reasoning and problem-solving techniques, allowing them to effectively identify, isolate, and resolve issues with dental support equipment. Through the use of flowcharts, process elimination theories, and service manuals, students will learn to analyze equipment problems from the perspective of the user. The course culminates in a cumulative assessment that involves developing a detailed problem-solving and repair action plan, providing students with the opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency in applying the skills and knowledge gained throughout the program.

Prerequisites

None.

Course Objectives

Identify and Explain the basic principles of dental compressors, including the compression cycle, and articulate the functions of key components such as pistons, valves, and motors.

Differentiate between various types of dental compressors, recognizing their operational characteristics and suitability for different dental applications.

Evaluate the maintenance requirements for dental compressors, including airflow checks, filter replacements, and air quality standards, to ensure optimal operation.

Diagnose and Resolve common issues associated with compressor systems, such as air leaks, excessive noise, and pressure loss, using appropriate troubleshooting techniques.

Demonstrate the proper installation and setup of dental compressors in accordance with manufacturer specifications, including considerations for placement, electrical connections, ventilation, and pressure regulation.

Explain the operation of wet ring and dry dental vacuum systems, detailing the function of critical components such as vacuum pumps, separators, and collection systems.

Assess and compare the design, operation, and maintenance requirements of wet ring versus dry vacuum systems, determining their respective advantages for dental applications.

Identify common issues such as loss of suction or water contamination in vacuum systems and implement systematic troubleshooting steps to address these challenges effectively.

Conduct routine maintenance on wet ring and dry vacuum systems, which includes cleaning filters, checking oil levels (if applicable), and inspecting for leaks to maintain optimal performance.

Adhere to safety regulations when servicing vacuum systems by ensuring proper ventilation, following electrical safety protocols, and utilizing personal protective equipment.

Explain the fundamental principles of sterilization, highlighting the critical factors of time, temperature, and pressure in achieving effective sterilization outcomes.

Distinguish between different types of dental sterilizers, including autoclave/steam sterilizers, heat sterilizers, and chemical sterilizers, by outlining their unique features and appropriate applications.

Describe the operational processes of autoclave/steam sterilizers, including the sterilization cycle, procedures for loading and unloading, and awareness of safety features.

Identify the installation requirements for autoclave/steam sterilizers, encompassing electrical supply, water connections, and ventilation needs.

Perform routine maintenance tasks on autoclave/steam sterilizers, including cleaning procedures, calibration checks, and maintenance of gaskets and seals to ensure reliable function.

Diagnose and Troubleshoot common issues encountered with autoclave/steam sterilizers, such as temperature fluctuations and pressure inconsistencies, employing effective corrective actions.

Apply regulatory standards to monitor sterilization processes using Chemical Indicators (CI) and Biological Indicators (BI), ensuring compliance and effectiveness at all times.