This course is to acquaint the dental assistant student with the composition, properties and manipulation of dental materials with a primary emphasis on those materials used in the dental office and a secondary emphasis on selected materials used in the dental laboratory. These properties include the physical, chemical, biological and mechanical properties of dental materials, Lectures, reading assignments and laboratory projects will provide a basic understanding of dental materials used in the dental office and an overview of selected materials used in the dental laboratory. This information permits the student to interpret the use of dental materials in clinical practice and to communicate the use of materials with the dentist and patient. This course also provides a scientific background for the selection and use of dental materials. The utilization of all dental materials, mixing techniques and safety protocol will be covered in the lab portion of the class. The importance of infection control, prevention of cross contamination and competency in uses and functions of dental materials will be emphasized. Care and maintenance of equipment and supplies will be demonstrated. Prerequisites: Successful completion of 1st semester classes in Dental Assistant Program. Corequisites: DENT170, DENT226 and DENT233.