PCC Dental Programs Reaccredited by National Group
September 20, 2011
Tucson, AZ – Pima Community College’s Dental Assisting Education, Dental Hygiene Education and Dental Laboratory Technology programs have received reaccreditation from the nationally recognized Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Reaccreditation is a marker of educational excellence assuring students that PCC’s Dental Studies programs adhere to current professional standards.
“I feel very honored to be the dean over our Dental Studies programs,” said Marty Mayhew, Dean of Nursing and Health-Related Professions. “Our faculty members are dedicated and work endlessly to uphold high standards and provide excellent instruction.”
“Reaccreditation of our programs indicates to Pima County taxpayers that the College is spending their money wisely,” said PCC Chancellor Dr. Roy Flores. “Our Dental Education and other occupational programs prepare graduates for employment as valued and respected professionals in the community.”
During the reaccreditation process, faculty at each PCC program wrote a self-study and submitted it to CODA, which sent a team to PCC’s West Campus earlier in April to verify the self-study’s findings and visit Dental Studies facilities.
Dental Assisting Education students learn to assist dentists and other dental professionals in patient care in hospitals, clinics and dental offices. Dental Hygiene Education students study to become licensed dental hygienists, while Dental Laboratory Technology students learn how to construct and repair dentures, partial dentures, crowns, bridges and other dental appliances.
Dental Hygiene Education student Kristen Denton appreciates that PCC’s program is preparing her to take the state licensure examination and eventual employment. “They really teach you what you need to know in real life,” said Kristen, who is on track to receive her Associate of Applied Science degree in May 2012 and intends to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Northern Arizona University.
Kristen said she was surprised to learn that taking patients’ vital signs and noting their medical history are important parts of a dental hygienist’s job. “They really want us to be aware,” said Kristen, a Mountain View High School graduate.
The next comprehensive CODA accreditation will be in 2018.
CONTACT:
C.J. Karamargin
Vice Chancellor for Public Information and Government Relations
(520) 206-4850