Transfers ToCSUDescription(Prerequisite: DENT 172.) This course covers principles of oral pathology, preventive dentistry, nutrition, dental anxiety, medical emergencies, pharmacology, and special needs populations as they relate to dentistry and the RDA scope of practice. Applied psychology, cultural diversity, and interpersonal communication skills with dental patients and coworkers are explored. The course combines foundational knowledge and practices integrated with clinical experiences. Laboratory content includes principles related to oral hygiene instructions and preventive techniques, nutrition counseling, special needs patient management and medical emergency response in the dental office. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the appropriate clinical patient assessment knowledge and skills necessary to begin clinical rotation experiences in the next phase of the dental assisting program. (CSU) 