General Information

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• A state-of-the-art licensed, private vocational institute

• Small class size (maximum 14) — low student-teacher ratio

• 14 Saturday classes

  • Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• 14 Thursday evening classes

  • Hours: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

• Class divided into two parts:

  • Evening classes — lectures and exams

  • Saturday classes — clinical training

• Highly experienced instructors — working assistants and practicing dentists of 20+ years

• Internship program at Boulevard Dental Arlington

• Internship program in specialty practices

• Learn all aspects of expanded duty dental assisting, including:

  • 4-handed dental assisting

  • Dental radiography

  • Terminology and anatomy

  • Sterilizing

  • Impressions, pour-up, trim

  • Temporary crown fabrication

• Receive a Certificate of Achievement

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SPIDA, Smokey Point Institute of Dental Assisting, is conveniently located in Smokey Point, WA, with easy access from both I-5 and Highway 9. The institute is housed within a modern, fully operational dental office, offering students the unique advantage of learning in a real clinical environment. Both classroom instruction and hands-on training are conducted on-site, providing a seamless and immersive educational experience.

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Students have access to a designated break room equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, sink, tables, and chairs. The facility includes separate restrooms for men and women, ample lighting, and plenty of on-site parking. Public transportation is also easily accessible. The building is fully ADA-compliant, with accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

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At SPIDA, our goal is to prepare students to confidently enter the workforce as entry-level dental assistants. Upon graduation, students will be equipped with the clinical skills and foundational knowledge needed to assist in a wide range of procedures typically performed in a general dental practice. 

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Our program director, Dr. Donghyun Kim, has been practicing general dentistry since 2014. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, reflecting his commitment to continuing education and clinical excellence. Dr. Kim is married to his dental school classmate, Dr. Jihyun Lee. Together, they bring over 20 years of combined experience to the field. With a deep understanding of what dental practices look for in team members, Dr. Kim and Dr. Lee are dedicated to training dental assistants who are not only well-prepared but highly valued from day one on the job.

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Our team of instructors consists of experienced dental assistants currently working in Dr. Donghyun Kim and Dr. Jihyun Lee’s office:

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Leisha Nobach is actually a graduate of our institute. She has been working at Boulevard Dental Arlington for over 20 years and has attended many post-graduate courses in clinical assisting. She later switched her position to help with front desk activities, office management, and accounts payable. She is excited to help our students feel the confidence that she experienced upon entering her new career.

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Amber is a registered dental hygienist. She brings 22 years of chairside experience and a smile each and every day she comes to our dental office. She earned an associate degree from Everett Community College before graduating from Bellingham Technical Institute with a degree in Dental Hygiene in 2010. She is also a restorative hygienist, performing advanced restorative procedures with the doctors such as placing and finishing restorations.

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Janelle is also a registered dental hygienist with extensive career as dental assistant. She has been a dedicated member of the practice for over eight years, bringing more than 34 years of dental experience to her role. She strives to provide high-quality care in a comfortable and welcoming setting. Her educational journey began at Renton Technical College, where she became a certified dental assistant in 1991. She later earned her associate degree from Everett Community College in 1998, followed by an associate degree in dental hygiene from Lake Washington Institute of Technology in 2000. In 2009, she graduated summa cum laude from Eastern Washington University with a Bachelor of Science in dental hygiene.

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In our goal to deliver the highest standard of learning and keep our student-instructor ratio low, we are only able to accept a maximum of 10 students per class. We look forward to working with each student to share and create a great educational and training experience.​​​​

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Placement Assistance Policy

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Smokey Point Institute of Dental Assisting will have avenues to aid students in gaining employment, including:

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• Posting all job opportunities that are brought to our attention

• Aiding in resume preparation

• Providing a letter of reference

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We cannot guarantee job placement, but we will make every effort to help you in beginning your career.

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Attendance Policy

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Due to the length and intensity of this course, a student will not receive their Certificate of Achievement if more than one class is missed. If a student has a medical emergency or personal crisis, the situation will be evaluated on an individual basis by the instructor and the directors of the Institute, Dr. George Hussey and Helen Hussey. The possibility of making up classes will be determined by said evaluation.

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Textbook Information

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Essentials of Dental Assisting Edition 3
Authors: Robinson, Ehrlich, Torres and Bird
The textbook is included in tuition cost.

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Hepatitis Vaccination—Required Before 2nd Saturday

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SNOHOMISH COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT—425-339-5200

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You may schedule an appointment Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. or you may walk in on Monday or Wednesday 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

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This is a series of three injections; the cost for each is $54.55. You may also arrange to have these given in your physician’s office.

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