Assist to Succeed Dental School
With a reputation for excellence, Smiles for Life is dedicated to helping patients achieve their desired smile transformation through their exceptional teeth whitening services.
Mission Statement
Our mission at ATS is to prepare the student for a career in dentistry. The student will receive a solid academic background in dentistry as well as a practical, clinical hands-on-training in preparation for entering the dental assisting field.
School History
Dr. Joseph McIntyre, DDS, Dr. Daniel Whiting, DMD, and their dental team have a passion for high quality dental care and exceptional patient care. Over the past 31 years, Dr. McIntyre has trained many dental assistants to perform all the duties and functions allowed in Virginia. This has been a very satisfying experience as most of them have continued in the dental field and some have even gone on to hygiene or dental school- such as our own Dr. Whiting. Our facility is designed to be a teaching facility with a large spacious classroom where our own staff training is done. The doctors realize that the best method of learning is when a student can learn the concept and then practice it. By having the school in a working dental office, the student has the advantage of gaining classroom knowledge, but also practice hands-on experience as they test their skills on each other, observe our staff, and experience internships in other offices. The school is the natural step for Dr. McIntyre and Dr. Whiting to be able to further share their passion for the field of dentistry as they help others skills and proficiency in this field.
Drs. McIntyre and Whiting are dedicated to providing patients with the very best care available.
Our Personal Promise
We are confident that students will be given every opportunity to fill their minds with principles that will drive them to success when properly applied. It is our personal promise to help students learn the skills they need to succeed in whatever endeavors they choose in life. The courses we teach offer the tools students need to succeed in dental assisting. We also hope to equip students with the desire and drive to use those tools to reach their dreams!
Office Hours
The students will be required to complete 120 contact hours in order to graduate. Classroom instruction will total 40 hours, clinical lab practicing skills will be 40 hours and externships in working dental offices will be 40 hours. The school faculty will be available half an hour before class starts (7:30-8:00am) and half an hour after the end of class (5:00-5:30pm) as well as during the hour long lunch break (12:00-1:00pm) for one- on-one meetings with students. Other times can be available by appointment.
This is an accelerated course. The course is for three months on Saturdays. Class hours are from 8am to12 noon and 1pm to 5pm.
Class Size
In order to provide personalized attention to each student, the class size will be limited to 6 students per clinical instructor.
We are confident that students will be given every opportunity to fill their minds with principles that will drive them to success when properly applied. It is our personal promise to help students learn the skills they need to succeed in whatever endeavors they choose in life.
Student Honor Code
Assist To Succeed Dental Assisting School operates as an educational institution and believes that it is imperative to health and safety that students understand the procedures, methods, and materials they will use in assisting a professional in the treatment of others. To that end ATS requires a very high level of excellence as outlined above. Students are not only required to perform in order to receive school endorsement but are expected to do so honestly. Students who are caught in any form of dishonest behavior (cheating, stealing from the school, stealing from other students or other affiliates of the school) will be dismissed from ATS as a student. Students suspected of dishonest behavior will be brought before the administration (course directors) at a scheduled time and the case reviewed. It will be the sole discretion of the administrators to determine the course of action, if any, that will be taken based on the solidity and dependability of the evidence presented by the student and the school staff. Individuals damaged will be responsible for legal prosecution of the accused.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in the professional and polite manner reasonably expected of a dental assistant. Interference with other student learning will not be tolerated and may result in expulsion.
Examinations, quizzes and homework assignments are designed for the learning and education of the student. All work is expected to be completed solely by the student unless specifically indicated otherwise by the instructors assigning each learning activity.
Admissions Requirements
The following entrance requirements are necessary for enrollment in the Dental Assisting Program:
- Person must be 18 years old or be a high school graduate or possess a GED certificate if younger than 18.
- Person must present a clean, neat appearance.
- Person must agree to abide by the Student Honor Code.
*Disclaimer: Certified to Operate by SCHEV
Meet The Team
Staunton Location
Bridgewater Location
Our Smiles for Life Patients Know
Terry Eck
When I embarked on my journey to find the right dental implant service, I initially gravitated towards the two prominent national brands in the field. However, my search took an unexpected and incredibly satisfying turn when I decided to explore the offerings of a local implant provider. Little did I know that this local gem would redefine my expectations of what a top-notch implant service should be like. Here's why my experience with them was nothing short of extraordinary: Meticulous Charting of Teeth and Gums: ★★★★★ One of the first things that set this local provider apart from the national giants was their unwavering commitment to precision and detail. While the big names seemed more focused on the implant procedure itself, this local gem took the time to meticulously chart the condition of my teeth and gums. This attention to detail ensured that my implant procedure was tailored to my specific needs and challenges. It was clear that they understood the importance of a solid foundation for the success of the implants. Infection Prevention Education: ★★★★★ Implant surgery is not without its risks, and one of the key concerns is the possibility of infection. What truly impressed me was the depth of information and guidance this local provider offered regarding infection prevention. They didn't just gloss over this critical aspect; they took the time to discuss the infection possibilities associated with dental implants and, more importantly, outlined a comprehensive plan to combat and mitigate such conditions. Their proactive approach to ensuring patient safety was truly reassuring. First-Year Implant Supervision: ★★★★★ Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of my experience with this local implant provider was their commitment to the long-term success of my dental implants. While the national brands seemed content with the implant procedure itself, this local provider went above and beyond by offering required supervision for the first year following the implant surgery. This level of aftercare and ongoing support was simply unparalleled and gave me peace of mind knowing that my oral health was in capable hands. In conclusion, my exploration journey for dental implants took an unexpected turn when I discovered this exceptional local implant provider. Their dedication to detail, infection prevention, and post-surgery care were nothing short of outstanding. They not only surpassed the standards set by the national brands but also redefined my expectations of what a truly exceptional implant service should encompass. If you're in search of dental implants and want an experience that goes above and beyond, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this local gem a visit. They've certainly earned my trust and gratitude.
Ashley Knight
The staff is very kind and the overall atmosphere was very welcoming. 🙂 Greatly enjoyed my experience there! I look forward to having all my dental work taken care of there!
Pam Cook
My first visit was enjoyable and I look forward to my upcoming appointments. I was impressed with how friendly everyone in the office was and accommodating not only to my schedule but to my unique situation. Highly recommend.
Linda Jackson
The Denist was very informative and took his time explaining to me what the problem was in laymen’s terms. I felt better upon leaving Thani find coming in thank you so much Dr McIntyre
Nicole Gray
Morgan is the best! I hadn’t been to the dentist in 10+ years and was nervous even though I’d always been a fan of the dentist (weird I know). Morgan explained her recommendations, how the plan would work and set me up with my various appointment needs. She always remembers details of my life and asks about specific things mentioned previously. She’s wonderful and a great asset to Smiles for Life!
Vera Floyd
I was happy to have had you for my,you were patient with me especially when I had to swallow, because of my dry throat. Dr mac you a wonderful job of giving me my smile back.I thank you so much,and I give you a high rating 10.Your assistant l give the same rating. I will amend to you all my friends and family. Thank again.
Amy McCrobie
Smiles for Life saved my mouth! My teeth were rotting because of the medicine I have to take and Smiles for Life helped me out with implants! The process was easy and now I have a beautiful smile! Dr. McIntyre and the whole staff are friendly and help you feel relaxed. I definitely recommend Smiles for Life!
Carolina Gonzalez
I went to get my cleaning done today. Everybody was very nice as usual. I took my kids with me they have a designated area for them to feel welcome and comfortable.
