Dental Hygiene

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe the "ladder concept" of dentistry in California.
• determine which duties can be performed by each member of the dental team.
• categorize the "Essential Functions" needed to perform the duties required in the Allied Health field.
• differentiate the functions of the dental hygienist in California.
• utilize study strategies, such as time-management skills, test-taking strategies, and note-taking skills that may be useful for success in the dental hygiene program.
• recall basic dental terminology, such as tooth numbering and landmarks, necessary for the entering dental hygiene student.
• describe the hazards and responsibilities of the dental hygienist as related to the Federal OSHA standards.
• describe the hazards and responsibilities of the dental hygienist as related to treatment of all individuals including those with infectious diseases and those with different backgrounds.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• elicit and record an accurate medical/dental history.
• obtain vital signs.
• perform a systematic extraoral and intraoral inspection.
• perform a dental charting.
• perform clinical periodontal probe and calculus detection assessments.
• demonstrate utilization of proper aseptic techniques.
• utilize correct patient/operator positioning.
• demonstrate a knowledge of instrument design, classification, and usage.
• select appropriate instruments for various treatment cases.
• demonstrate correct instrumentation and coronal polish techniques according to pre-specified criteria and competency level.
• provide patient education.
• utilize appropriate communication and patient management skills to provide the patient with individualized information regarding dental hygiene treatment procedures.
• demonstrate effective skills in the areas of cooperation, critical thinking, and problem solving.
• demonstrate competency in instrument processing, unit set up and break down, hand washing, and utilization of personal protective equipment.
• demonstrate correct sealant placement techniques according to pre-specified criteria and competency level.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe the process of both prenatal development and developmental disturbances related to the development of the face, neck, and oral structures.
• outline the events that occur during the development of the face and neck, describing each step in formation.
• outline the events that occur during the development of the teeth and associated structures and during tooth eruption, describing each step of formation.
• indicate and discuss the components of the cell, including the cell membrane, cytoplasm, organelles, and inclusions.
• list and describe each of the basic histological types of tissue.
• list and describe the types of oral mucosa, characterizing each of the different types of epithelium associated with each region in the oral cavity, including the tongue.
• describe the composition and discuss the development of the dentogingival junctional tissues.
• describe the location of each head and neck structure.
• describe the properties of enamel and discuss the microscopic features.
• discuss the microscopic features of dentin and pulp.
• indicate and discuss the microscopic features of the periodontium.
• prepare and deliver a presentation to an audience.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• define and apply the principles of primary, secondary, and tertiary preventive dentistry.
• effectively demonstrate both brushing techniques and auxiliary plaque control aids in their own mouth as well as help clients with instruction and feedback for these techniques.
• prepare chairside visual aids and patient education materials for use during dental hygiene appointments.
• plan, implement, and evaluate individualized plans for primary prevention for dental hygiene clients with beginning level competency.
• select, demonstrate, and explain rationale for use of a variety of oral hygiene devices and aids based on individual client needs and preferences.
• develop an awareness of the total client and their individual needs, motivation, and preferences in planning an integrated dental hygiene prevention and treatment plan.
• utilize and interpret basic dental health assessment indices in client evaluation and interpretation of journal articles.
• utilize and interpret a caries risk assessment in client evaluation and treatment planning.
• demonstrate knowledge of fluorides and other chemo-therapeutic agents and be able to explain the rationale for their use in individual and community client situations.
• explain the influence of nutrition on oral, dental disease, and total health.
• relate the basic principles of education, motivation, and psychology and their applications to dental hygiene client education, preventive treatment and oral care planning.
• differentiate between cariogenic sugars and non-cariogenic sweeteners.
• describe and implement preventive strategies to halt or decrease caries frequency in high-risk or at-risk patients.
• describe the different types of tobacco, their use, harmful toxins, carcinogens, and potential for associated oral diseases and lesions.
• identify and describe the components of a successful tobacco cessation intervention program in a dental office and community settings.
• recognize the common oral conditions and diseases of patients with developmental disorders.
• apply specific preventive strategies to use with patients with developmental disorders.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe the two dentitions and their relationship.
• assign the correct universal designation for a tooth and its correct dentition period when examining a figure or a patient.
• describe the general and specific features of permanent anterior teeth and each permanent anterior tooth type.
• describe the general and specific features of permanent posterior teeth and each permanent posterior tooth type.
• describe the general features of primary teeth and of each primary tooth type.
• outline Angle's classification of malocclusion and how it relates to patient care.
• demonstrate an understanding of the need for preventative measures and occlusal sealants for teeth as it relates to pits and fissures.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe the legal and ethical concepts of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Dental Board of California regulations concerning infection control.
• describe and demonstrate understanding of the concept of disease transmission in the dental environment; how it occurs and how to prevent transmission of disease to self and to patients.
• explain how the HIV virus, TB (tuberculosis), herpes, and hepatitis viruses are spread and how to prevent potential transmissions.
• describe how to protect the dental patient with disinfection techniques, barrier control techniques, and sterilization.
• prepare appropriate records on infection control and management of hazardous materials.
• describe and demonstrate how to label and protect themselves from hazardous materials.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• demonstrate beginning level proficiency in the selection, development, and implementation of the treatment plan for the child and healthy adult patient.
• demonstrate the ability to plan, complete, and evaluate the preventive treatment plan for the child patient.
• demonstrate increased proficiency providing oral prophylaxis and auxiliary procedures to the child and healthy adult patient.
• demonstrate mastery of the rationale on written examinations, participate in initial laboratory experiences, and develop proficiency in the following areas: instrument sharpening, use of auxiliary plaque control aids, gracey instrumentation, root planing, desensitization, ultrasonics, periodontal examinations, and care of dental appliances and dental implants.
• demonstrate mastery of the clinical rationale on written examinations, and apply in the clinical setting when necessary.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• compare and contrast the clinical and histological characteristics of the periodontium in health, gingivitis, and periodontitis.
• describe variables associated with periodontal disease that an epidemiologist might include in a research study.
• name and describe the components of the biofilm structure.
• name the classic symptoms of inflammation.
• compare and contrast acute and chronic inflammation.
• describe two common local contributing factors that can increase plaque retention.
• list and describe systemic contributing factors related to periodontal disease.
• compare and contrast the terms periodontal disease, gingivitis, and periodontists.
• name and define the major subdivisions of gingival disease.
• compare and contrast chronic periodontitis and aggressive periodontitis.
• discuss and provide several examples of how systemic conditions can increase an individual's susceptibility to periodontal disease.
• summarize the elements in the framework of the evidence-based decision making process.
• describe and demonstrate decision making during treatment planning.
• list and describe the objectives for periodontal surgery.
• describe immunology and the host immune response.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• discuss the clinical applications of head and neck anatomy by dental professionals.
• locate and identify the regions and associated surface landmarks of the head and neck on a diagram and a patient.
• describe in detail the landmarks of the maxilla and mandible.
• locate and identify the muscles of the head and neck on a diagram, skull, and patient.
• locate and identify the landmarks of the temporomandibular joint on a diagram, skull, and patient.
• discuss the vascular system pathology associated with the head and neck region.
• locate and identify the glands and associated structures in the head and neck on a diagram, skull, and patients.
• compare the divisions of the central and peripheral nervous systems.
• identify the tissues and structures anesthetized by local anesthesia.
• analyze the lymphatic system.
• describe the spread of dental infections.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• demonstrate acceptable practices of health and safety including infection control in relation to exposing and processing radiographs.
• relate basic principles of radiographic theory to the production of diagnostically acceptable radiographs.
• determine, in conjunction with a dentist and "Radiographic Guidelines," a patient's need for radiographs based upon integration of patient history and clinical examination.
• employ appropriate methods for intraoral radiography and be capable of modifying techniques to adjust to specific patient situations.
• identify radiographic techniques and processing errors and be able to remediate these errors with faculty and peers.
• interpret radiographic landmarks, basic caries, and periapical disease processes on intraoral and panoramic dental radiographs with beginning level competence.
• provide education to the patient regarding the need for value of and benefit/risk rationale for dental radiographs.
• demonstrate appropriate professionalism during class and laboratory sessions.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• demonstrate increased proficiency in efficient handling and evaluation of prophylaxis patients. Skills needed include instrument sharpening, use of auxiliary plaque control aids, gracey instrumentation, root planing, desensitization, ultrasonics, periodontal examinations, and care of dental appliances and dental implants.
• demonstrate acceptable technical ability for exposing, processing, and evaluating full-mouth x-rays.
• demonstrate the ability to plan, complete, and evaluate the preventive treatment plan for the adult patient.
• demonstrate beginning level proficiency for moderately-difficult to difficult patients.
• demonstrate beginning level proficiency in the following skill: recognition of need for and utilization of correct techniques in root planing.
• demonstrate beginning level proficiency in the following skill: recognition of and need for utilization of correct techniques in ultrasonics.
• demonstrate beginning level proficiency in the following skill: recognition of need for and correct application of pit and fissure sealants.
• complete periodontal charting including: sulcus depth, gingival recession, mobility, furcation, lack of adequate attached gingiva, frenum pull, diastemas, and malposed teeth.
• demonstrate beginning level proficiency in the following skill:recognition of need for and correct application of desensitizing agents.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• recognize, list, and describe properties and procedures that affect the manipulation, placement, and effectiveness of dental materials.
• explain the effects the oral environment may have on dental material as well as the effect dental materials may have on the oral environment.
• demonstrate the ability to mix dental materials to proper consistency in a reasonable length of time.
• describe and demonstrate the appropriate method for taking, pouring, and trimming alginate impressions for study casts, opposing models, and bleaching trays.
• demonstrate the ability to fabricate functional bleaching trays.
• define and describe the use of dental amalgam and composite restorations.
• compare various bonding techniques and list the specific requirements of each.
• identify and demonstrate the use of various matrix systems.
• discuss dental resins as they relate to both intraoral and extraoral use in dentistry.
• describe various fixed and removable devices and determine which device is best considering specific patient needs.
• demonstrate knowledge of basic endodontic, oral surgery related to surgical (periodontal) dressing, and implant procedures.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe the indications and contraindications of the administration and reversal of local anesthetic agents.
• describe and demonstrate an understanding of neurophysiology and the theory and psychological aspects of pain and anxiety control.
• demonstrate an understanding of the pharmacology of local anesthetics, review the body systems related to local anesthetics.
• compare and contrast the pharmacology of vasoconstrictors.
• compare the clinical actions of specific local anesthetic agents and the selection of pain control agents.
• demonstrate the assembly of a breech-loading syringe used in dentistry.
• demonstrate an understanding of the types of needles used in dentistry for administering local anesthetic.
• demonstrate an understanding of the components, contents, and the safe handling of a dental anesthetic cartridge.
• demonstrate an understanding of topical anesthetic used in dentistry.
• describe the preparation of the armamentarium when preparing to administer local anesthetic in dentistry including proper infection control procedures for local anesthesia.
• assess the goals of a physical and psychological evaluation.
• demonstrate basic injection techniques used in dentistry including recovery from local anesthesia.
• incorporate anatomical considerations when administering local anesthesia in dentistry.
• demonstrate an understanding of how to safely administer maxillary and mandibular local injections.
• assess indications for supplemental injections in the dental setting.
• evaluate legal considerations related to local anesthesia.
• describe the local and systemic complications of dental anesthesia.
• demonstrate patient documentation that meets the standard of care.
• critique future trends in dental anesthesia.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• demonstrate increased proficiency in efficient handling and evaluation of the prophylaxis patient.
• demonstrate proficiency in the administration of local anesthesia.
• demonstrate increased technical ability for exposing, processing, and evaluating full-mouth radiographs.
• demonstrate beginning proficiency in the selection, development, and implementation of treatment plans for periodontally-involved patients.
• demonstrate the ability to identify and analyze the dietary needs of a patient at risk for dental caries.
• demonstrate satisfactory performance in professionalism.
• demonstrate satisfactory performance in clinical proficiency exams.
• complete the minimum number of patients and services listed in the syllabus.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• perform all relevant data collection tasks on a patient including, but not limited to, radiographic interpretation and occlusal evaluation in order to facilitate case assessment.
• use appropriate assessments, formulate a dental hygiene diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan for a non-surgical periodontal therapy, and communicate the plan to the patient including the benefits and limitations of Scaling and Root Planing and Soft Tissue Curettage and the patient's role in effective treatment.
• justify and utilize the correct armamentarium and techniques for patient treatment procedures including safe anesthesia, scaling and root planing and Soft Tissue Curettage (STC).
• examine applicable newer theories, technologies, and procedures as they relate to periodontal care.
• demonstrate correct suture removal on a typodont and subgingival antimicrobial delivery.
• evaluate the results of treatment and identify the need for referral.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• assess, plan, implement, and evaluate community dental health programs.
• analyze and discuss social responsibility and ethical dilemmas in dental public health situations.
• discuss dental public health programs at the local, state, national, and international levels.
• demonstrate and interpret the use of dental indices in applications to dental health promotion and research programs.
• demonstrate beginning level knowledge and interpretation of biostatistics.
• discuss and demonstrate applications of health promotion, health communications, and cultural competency in community settings.
• discuss planning and evaluation of oral health programs in the community.
• discuss and apply principles of epidemiology to general health as well to oral health.
• discuss applications and uses of fluoride and sealant programs in community settings.
• visit a community health agency and make a brief written and oral report on the agency.
• visit two different facilities that offer programs for geriatric or medically compromised populations and complete written and oral reports on the facilities.
• demonstrate knowledge of health care financing and delivery.
• review and apply tobacco cessation information and resources as applicable to community dental health programs.
• observe and document participation in community health fairs that target under-served populations.
• discuss the variety of roles, settings, and duties which are possible for dental hygienists in community settings.
• plan, implement, and report on a dental health presentation in a preschool or head start setting.
• assess, plan, implement, evaluate, and report on an independent dental health project in selected target populations.
• discuss the role of the individual dental hygienist as well as the dental hygiene professional organization in contributing to the health and well-being of the community.
• apply and discuss principles of research to community programs and professional journal articles.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• apply advanced instrumentation techniques to the clinical treatment of patients.
• develop and implement periodontally involved patient treatment plans.
• demonstrate an understanding of the treatment needs of patients with involved medical histories.
• apply critical thinking skills to case-based studies and treatment planning.
• identify the major socioeconomic characteristics of the older population, including ethnic, economic, education, family, religious, cultural, and residential factors.
• discuss the influence of demographic and economic factors on health and dental care.
• demonstrate understanding of basic mental health and cognitive function of the older adult.
• describe key health promotion and disease prevention activities appropriate for older people.
• identify age-related physiological changes.
• identify risks that lead to musculoskeletal disorders, recognize the benefits of ergonomics in reducing musculoskeletal disorders, and understand how ergonomics is vital to all aspects of dentistry.
• interpret clinical updates through discussion of experiences in Clinic III.
• research and interpret a topic for poster sessions.
• demonstrate an understanding of interprofessional education.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• list and define diagnostic modalities that contribute to the diagnostic process.
• list five classic signs of inflammation that occur locally at the site of inflammation.
• describe the primary difference between an immune response and an inflammatory response.
• describe the factors that allow opportunistic infection to develop.
• recognize developmental disorders of the dentition in adults and children.
• explain the purpose of mitosis and meiosis.
• explain the difference between a benign tumor and a malignant tumor.
• demonstrate an understanding of nonneoplastic disorders of the bone.
• demonstrate an understanding of the oral manifestations of systemic diseases.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe the role of pharmacology in the dental hygiene process of care.
• identify the various parts of a written prescription.
• compare the difference between pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics.
• understand the difference between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system.
• discuss the commonly used pharmacological agents for the treatment of orofacial pain.
• list the classifications of the different antibiotics including penicillins, cephalosporins, and tetracyclines.
• describe and demonstrate understanding of antiviral and antifungal agents.
• describe and demonstrate understanding of antineoplastic, immunosuppressant, and bisphosphonate drugs.
• list the different categories of drugs used in the treatment of heart conditions.
• describe and demonstrate understanding of peptic ulcer disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
• discuss the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• describe and demonstrate understanding of neuralgic drugs.
• discuss the biochemical etiology of the various psychiatric disorders.
• compare the indications and effects of the available medications used to treat diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders.
• describe the actions of various herbal products used in dentistry.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• demonstrate increased proficiency in efficient handling and evaluation of the prophylaxis patient using skills listed previously in clinical courses.
• demonstrate beginning-level proficiency in the administration of local anesthesia, administration of nitrous oxide, and soft tissue curettage.
• reduce the patient appointment time while at the same time maintain quality patient treatment.
• demonstrate increased technical ability for exposing, processing, and evaluating full-mouth radiographs.
• demonstrate increased ability in the selection, development, and implementation of treatment plans for periodontally-involved patients.
• complete the minimum number of x-rays, injections, Soft-Tissue Curettage, and nitrous oxide sedations listed in the syllabus.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• present an oral case presentation, utilizing appropriate documentation.
• safely administer nitrous oxide to clients, demonstrating an understanding of the armamentarium.
• describe the indications and contraindications of the administration of nitrous oxide.
• assess the physical and psychological evaluation of patients prior to administering nitrous oxide.
• demonstrate proper infection control and legal documentation of the administration of nitrous oxide.
• develop and present a professional poster session research project.
• demonstrate adequate preparation for the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.
• obtain information presented by the dental industry and use this information to better treat clients.
• demonstrate adequate preparation for the California Clinical Examination.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• discuss the history of dental hygiene and the current roles for a dental hygienist in the areas of administrator and manager, change agent, clinician, client advocate, educator and oral health promoter, and researcher.
• demonstrate knowledge of the legal duties for the dental assistant, registered dental assistant, registered dental assistant in extended function, registered dental hygienist, and registered dental hygienist in alternative practice in California and the level of supervision required to perform these duties.
• discuss the structure of the American Dental Hygienists' Association at the national, state, and local level and describe benefits of membership in a professional organization.
• discuss the application of the ADHA Code of Ethics to daily dental hygiene practice.
• demonstrate beginning knowledge of jurisprudence terminology and dental hygiene and dental malpractice.
• formulate a cover letter, resume, and personal philosophy of practice.
• compare and contrast the benefits and costs of professional malpractice and disability insurance and list resources for obtaining these policies.
• discuss risk assessment as applied to dental hygiene practice and list potential risk areas.
• discuss key facets of the interview process and formulate a plan for success including key questions and responses which may likely occur in an interview.
• demonstrate basic knowledge of financial planning and asset/debt management for the new graduate.
• complete and present a research project with a partner on some aspect of dental hygiene practice.
• interview an experienced hygienist to explore key employment and practice issues as evidenced by a typed interview with a prescribed format.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• show improvement in the subject areas agreed upon in the special studies agreement.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• describe principles of gross anatomy that relate to the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.
• describe principles of physiological body functions that relate to the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.
• describe principles of microbiology and immunology that relate to the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.
• describe principles of biochemistry that relate to the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.
• describe principles of medical emergencies that relate to the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.
• explain principles of safe patient care that relate to the Dental Hygiene Program's policies.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• differentiate between the concepts of periodontal root debridement therapy and the former scaling-root planing (SRP).
• identify and describe common characteristics (descriptions) of non-malignant and malignant oral lesions.
• identify complications with local anesthesia.
• explain the impact of physiological stress on one's well-being.
• interpret California regulations applicable to dental practice.
• outline OSHA and CAL/OSHA regulations that impact the provision of dental care.