Dental Hygiene
Associate in Applied Science Degree
The dental hygiene program prepares students for licensure and entry into the profession of dental hygiene, as well as certification in the administration of local infiltration anesthesia/nitrous oxide analgesia. The program in dental hygiene is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and is granted the accreditation status of “Approval without Reporting Requirements.” The program will be reviewed again at the next scheduled site visit in 2030. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678. The Commission’s web address is: www.ada.org/coda. Graduates receive an Associate in Applied Science degree and are eligible to sit for the National Board Examination in Dental Hygiene, as well as State and Regional Practical Board Examinations for dental hygienists.
As the need for dental hygiene care continues to grow in the Nation, many new and varied opportunities are available for graduates in a wide array of work settings. Although the clinical role is most closely associated with dental hygiene, it is only one of six roles officially designated for the hygienist, which include educator, researcher, administrator, change agent, and consumer advocate. Although special emphasis is placed on educating the clinical hygienist, all the roles are incorporated into the theoretical framework and practical experiences of the curriculum. The program provides general education, as well as specialized courses in the biomedical and oral sciences.
Students perform a variety of comprehensive services at the College’s technologically advanced Dental Hygiene Care Center. Among these services are thorough assessment of oral conditions, non-surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing of teeth), exposing, processing and interpreting oral x-rays, patient education and nutritional counseling.
The Dental Hygiene Care Center is in compliance with all Occupational and Safety Health Administration (OSHA)/Infection Control regulations regarding infectious diseases and bloodborne pathogens.
As a condition for acceptance into the dental hygiene program all applicants are required to submit evidence of satisfactory health. Evidence of immunization and adequate titers for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella must be provided. In addition, matriculated students will be required to take a yearly Mantoux test for tuberculosis. Students are strongly urged to submit evidence of immunization and titer for Hepatitis B. It is recommended that students who test negatively for Hepatitis B receive the appropriate vaccine. Students who decline this recommendation will be required to sign a waiver of responsibility. All Dental Hygiene students are required to participate in the group liability policy, provided by the college, which will afford malpractice coverage during the time enrolled in the Dental Hygiene curriculum.
Individuals who have been found guilty, or pleaded guilty to a felony, may not be eligible for dental hygiene licensure. The State Certifying Board may grant a waiver based upon mitigating circumstances. Contact NYS Office of the Professions for further information at www.op.nysed.gov.
Typical Employment Opportunities
Private Dental Offices
Geriatric Facilities
Public Health Agencies
Research Laboratories
School Health Services
Pharmaceutical Corporations
Private Care Center
Dental Supply Companies
Hospitals
Armed Forces
Insurance Companies
Managed Care Facilities
Dental Hygiene (AAS) Program Outcomes:
- Graduates will have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide comprehensive dental hygiene care to the general population including the adolescent, geriatric and special needs patient.
- Graduates will develop an expertise in the area of health promotion and disease prevention through assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of community based oral health programs and effective interaction with diverse population groups.
- Graduates will develop a sense of professionalism as health care providers including self assessment, recognition and management of ethical, legal and regulatory issues, and evaluation of scientific literature as it relates to the profession of dental hygiene.
Special Opportunities
As a student in the Dental Hygiene Associate in Applied Science Degree Program you are eligible to participate in the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association (SADHA) which promotes student leadership through community outreach, lunch and learn programs and various campus activities.
Admission to Farmingdale State College - State University of New York is based on the qualifications of the applicant without regard to age, sex, marital or military status, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation.
Contact Information
Dental Hygiene
Dr. Susan Vogell
Gleeson Hall, Room 244
934-420-2060
dentalhygiene@farmingdale.edu
Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm
Fall 2024
Subject to revision
| College Requirement | (1 credit) |
| FYE 101 First Year Experience* | 1 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences | (20 credits) |
|---|---|
| BIO 166 Anatomy & Physiology** (GE) | 4 |
| BIO 221 Oral Microbiology (GE) | 4 |
| EGL 101 Composition I: College Writing**(GE) | 3 |
| PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology (GE) | 3 |
| SOC 122 Introductory Sociology OR | |
| SOC 228 Society and Health (GE) | 3 |
| SPE 202 Interpersonal Communications (GE) | 3 |
| Required: Dental Hygiene | (50 credits) |
|---|---|
| DEN 102 Dental Materials & Expanded Functions | 3 |
| DEN 105 Dental & Oral Anatomy | 3 |
| DEN 106 Oral Radiology I | 3 |
| DEN 108 Oral Histology & Embryology | 2 |
| DEN 110 Preventive Oral Health Concepts I | 2 |
| DEN 115 Clinical Dental Hygiene I | 3 |
| DEN 126 Periodontology | 2 |
| DEN 201 Pain Management | 2 |
| DEN 203 Principles of Nutrition for Oral Health Professionals | 2 |
| DEN 205 Oral Pathology | 2 |
| DEN 207 Oral Radiology II | 1 |
| DEN 212 Pharmacology | 3 |
| DEN 220 Preventive Oral Health Concepts II | 2 |
| DEN 221W Community Oral Health I | 2 |
| DEN 222 Community Oral Health II | 2 |
| DEN 225 Clinical Dental Hygiene II | 3 |
| DEN 230 Preventive Oral Health Concepts III | 2 |
| DEN 235 Clinical Dental Hygiene III | 4 |
| DEN 240 Dental Practice Management, Ethics & Jurisprudence | 2 |
| DEN 245 Clinical Dental Hygiene IV | 5 |
| Total Credits: | 70-71 |
Curriculum Summary
*FYE 101 First Year Experience is required for all first time full time students
Once a student has been admitted to DEN 105, courses must be completed in semester sequence, without interruption. Any student who misses a semester will not be permitted to continue in the program until approval has been obtained (if granted) from the Admissions and Academic Standards Committee of the Dental Hygiene Department. Students who have been given permission to continue in the program will be required to take the skills refresher course DEN 015. Procedural information may be obtained from the Department Chair of Dental Hygiene in Gleeson Hall.
Dental Hygiene Admission Requirements from High School:
High School Diploma or GED
Integrated Algebra and Geometry
Laboratory Biology
Laboratory Chemistry
** In addition to the high school requirements, applicants not applying directly from high school are required to complete the following courses prior to admission:
- EGL 101
- BIO 166
All courses with a DEN prefix must be completed in residence at Farmingdale State College.
Degree Type: AAS
Total Required Credits: 70-71
Please refer to the General Education, Applied Learning, and Writing Intensive requirement sections of the College Catalog and consult with your advisor to ensure that graduation requirements are satisfied. As a part of the SUNY General Education Framework, all first-time full time Freshman at Farmingdale State College (FSC) beginning Fall 2023, are required to develop knowledge and skills in Diversity: Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice (DEISJ). Students will be able to fulfill this requirement at FSC by taking a specially designated DEISJ course that has been developed by faculty and approved by the DEISJ Review Board. DEISJ-approved courses may meet other General Education Knowledge and Skills areas and/or core competencies and thus be dually designated. DEISJ-approved courses may also earn other special designations such as those for Applied Learning or Writing Intensive.
| Notes: |
|---|
| The nature of this program will expose students to bodily fluids and blood borne pathogens. The Dental Hygiene Department adheres strictly to the Occupational and Safety Health Administration (OSHA) Guidelines for infectious disease control. |
| Students must be certified in basic life support procedures prior to entering the clinical sequence. |
| Students are required to provide their own transportation to off campus field experiences. For all field experiences, student dress must conform with field agency protocol. |
| Students are required to purchase their own instruments and specific clinically related supplies. |
| A grade of “C” (2.0) or better must be maintained in all courses with a DEN, BIO or CHM prefix. A failure in a clinically related area constitutes withdrawal from the Dental Hygiene curriculum. |
| Students are also required to provide their own patients (approximately 8) for clinic during the second semester of the program. |
| A TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Examination with a minimum score of 550 (paper), 213 (computer), or 79 (internet) will be required as a condition for entrance into the Dental Hygiene program for: |
| a) applicants who are foreign born high school seniors and have had ESL (English as a Second Language) courses in high school or |
| b) applicants with secondary credentials from a foreign country whose language of instruction was not English, regardless of any coursework completed in the United States. |
FYE 101 First Year Experience
This course is designed to assist new students in acclimating, connecting, and adjusting to the college campus and experience. Through presentations, discussions and group work, students will become familiar with college resources and learn strategies for academic success. Students will also be introduced to the values and ethical principles of the College and encouraged to reflect on their role/responsibilities as college students. Topics include time management, study skills, stress management, goal setting, course and career planning, self-assessment and awareness, and the development of wellness strategies. Note: Students completing FYE 101 may not receive credit for FRX101, FYS 101, or RAM 101. Credits 1 (1.0)
BIO 166 Principles of Human Anatomy and Physiology
This is a one semester integrated survey of human anatomy and physiology, covering the major physiological and morphological relationships of the human organ systems. The design of this course is appropriate preparation for Dental Hygiene, Medical Laboratory Technology, and certain other allied health professions, but it does not satisfy the requirements of the Nursing Curriculum. The major theme of the course is the integrative pathways and regulatory processes that maintain the homeostasis of the body. Note: BIO 166 does not satisfy the requirements of the Nursing Curriculum and cannot be used as a substitute for either BIO 170 or BIO 171. It is approved in the Natural Sciences General Education Competency Area and can serve as lower-level laboratory science elective within Liberal Arts. Note: the laboratory course, BIO 166L is a part of your grade for this course. Prerequisite(s): High School biology with a lab or BIO 120 or 123 or 130; High School or College chemistry recommended. Corequisite(s): BIO 166L
BIO 221 Oral Microbiology
This course will focus on the role of microbes as causative agents of disease in human hosts, with a specific focus on the microbiome of the mouth. Topics will include the morphological characterization of pathogenic species, classification of communicable diseases and epidemiology aspects, host-parasite relationship, host-resistance mechanisms, and diagnostic methods in medical practice. The course covers the normal oral flora as well as the bacteria that initiate caries, periodontal, and oral abscesses. The course will discuss antiviral agents as well as antibiotics that treat fungal and bacterial infections. The major bacterial, prion, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases are covered. Additional topics include sterilization, disinfection methods and contamination control. Note: The laboratory course, BIO 221L is a part of your grade for this course. Prerequisite(s): BIO 166 or BIO 170 or 171 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): BIO 221L
EGL 101 Composition I: College Writing
This is the first part of a required sequence in college essay writing. Students learn to view writing as a process that involves generating ideas, formulating and developing a thesis, structuring paragraphs and essays, as well as revising and editing drafts. The focus is on the development of critical and analytical thinking. Students also learn the correct and ethical use of print and electronic sources. At least one research paper is required. A grade of C or higher is a graduation requirement. Note: Students passing a departmental diagnostic exam given on the first day of class will remain in EGL 101; all others will be placed in EGL 097. Prerequisite is any of the following: successful completion of EGL 097; an SAT essay score (taken prior to March 1, 2016) of 7 or higher; an SAT essay score (taken after March 1, 2016) of 5 or higher; on-campus placement testing.
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology
This course is designed to present basic psychological concepts and to introduce students to the scientific study of behavior. Core topics include methods of psychological research, the biological bases of behavior, principles of learning, memory and cognition, personality, and psychopathology. Other selected topics to be covered would include the following: motivation and emotion, life-span development, social psychology, health psychology, sensation and perception, intelligence, human sexuality, statistics, and altered states of consciousness.
SOC 122 Introduction to Sociology
This is an introductory course designed to familiarize students with the field of sociology. In addition to learning about the central concepts and major theoretical sociological perspectives, students study human behavior in groups, the organization of social life, the impact of social institutions on individuals, and the process of sociological research. Great emphasis is also placed upon development of students’ “sociological imagination” – specifically, the ability to understand the ways that our individual lives are shaped by larger social forces and institutions. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for SOC 122 and 122W or SOC 122*D SOC 122W can be used to fulfill the writing intensive requirement. SOC 122*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement.
SOC 228 Society and Health
This course examines the meanings and experiences of health and illness and the ways in which social factors like age, gender, class and ethnicity affect health. We explore the historical development of health professions, including alternative health professions. Significant time is also devoted to understanding the workings of the contemporary American healthcare system. NOTE: Students cannot earn credit for SOC 228 and SOC 228*D SOC 228*D can be used to fulfill the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice requirement.
SPE 202 Interpersonal Communications
An Introduction to effective interpersonal communication skills covering areas such as effective and active listening, feedback techniques, the effects of self-concept and perception in daily communications, and non-verbal and cross-cultural communication. These skills will be developed through class lectures, group exercises, and individual activities and assignments. Prerequisite(s): EGL 101
DEN 102 Dental Materials and Expanded Functions
This course is concerned with the study of dental materials that are employed in dentistry for the fabrication of dental appliances and tooth restorations. It will provide the student with a basic understanding of the various procedures, materials, and devices commonly used in dental practice. Emphasis will be placed on the physical and chemical properties of dental materials and how these properties affect the care and manipulation of the materials. Basic laboratory techniques, as well as expanded functions, will be performed in the lab. Spring. Prerequisite(s): DEN 105 Corequisite(s): DEN 102L
DEN 105 Dental and Oral Anatomy
The study of the anatomy of the oral, facial complex and the morphology of the dentitions. Emphasis is placed on technical dental terminology as well as occlusion. This course includes a co-requisite laboratory designed to provide experience in mastering tooth morphology and occlusion. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Hygiene Program. EGL 101, CHM 124 (or High School Chemistry/Lab) and BIO 166, all with a minimum grade of C Corequisite(s): DEN 105L
DEN 106 Oral Radiology I
This course acquaints the student with the nature of ionizing radiation, the history of x-rays, and their production and properties. The theory and practice of exposing, processing, mounting, and analyzing dental radiographs and digital images are covered as well as radiation dosage, radiation hazards, and protective devices for patient and operator. Emphasis is placed on the identification of anatomic landmarks and the differentiation of these from conditions which indicate abnormality or disease. This course includes a co-requisite laboratory which includes two hours per week of laboratory activity. Prerequisite(s): DEN 105, with a minimum grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 106L
DEN 108 Oral Histology and Embryology
This course reviews basic histological tissues. Microscopic structures of the oral tissues are studied and include the hard palate, soft palate, tongue, lips, salivary glands and tonsils. Emphasis is on the development of the face, the oral cavity and, in specific, the tooth and its surrounding tissues. Spring. Prerequisite(s): DEN 105
DEN 110 Preventive Oral Health Concepts I
This course is an introduction to the study of dental hygiene. It includes an overview of the dental hygiene profession to include current and future roles of the dental hygienist. Special emphasis is placed on the hygienist as periodontal co-therapist, the responsibility of the dental hygienist to the profession and the development and strengthening of values that pertain to the profession of dental hygiene. Other topics to be covered include: infection control procedures, disease transmission, the etiology and role of dental biofilm and calculus, biofilm control strategies, the importance of medical histories, medical emergencies, and planning implications for the medically compromised patient. Corequisite(s): DEN 105, 105L, 115
DEN 115 Clinical Dental Hygiene I
This is a clinical course in the practical application of dental hygiene techniques with supplemental discussions related to the clinical practice of the dental hygienist. Emphasis is placed on proper patient and operator positioning, the use of dental equipment, maintenance of an aseptic environment, patient assessment procedures, and instrumentation principles and techniques. Corequisite(s): DEN 105, 105L and 110
DEN 126 Periodontology
A basic understanding of the principles and concepts associated with periodontology, including a detailed study of the periodontal tissues in both health and disease. Special emphasis is placed on the role of the dental hygienist as a periodontal co-therapist in the development of skills necessary to provide initial non-surgical and supportive periodontal therapy within the framework of a comprehensive dental hygiene care plan. Spring. Prerequisite(s): DEN 105, 110, 115 and BIO 221 with a grade of C or higher
DEN 201 Pain Management
This course is designed to provide an in depth study of anesthesia and pain control as it is used in Dentistry. The mechanism of actions of anesthetic agents as well as other methods of pain control will be studied, demonstrated, and practiced. This course has a co-requisite laboratory that allows students the opportunity to practice the administration of local anesthesia. Prerequisite(s): DEN 102, 105, 106, 120, 126, 220 and 225 all with a grade of C or higher
DEN 203 Principles of Nutrition for Oral Health Professionals
This course is designed to educate the dental hygiene student in basic principles of nutrition, metabolism and digestion. There is an emphasis on the biochemical function of carbohydrates, protein, lipids, vitamins, and minerals as they relate to health and wellness, nutrition and disease, energy balance, eating disorders, and the oral manifestations of nutritional deficiency. Nutrition labeling, nutrition guidelines and dietary analysis of a client’s diet and review of pertinent nutrition literature is essential to the dental hygiene process of care and therefore, is an important component to the scope of this course’s requirements. Fall. Prerequisite(s): CHM 124 (or High School Chemistry/Lab)
DEN 205 Oral Pathology
The study of the fundamentals of microscopic and gross pathology. Discussion of general pathologic processes with emphasis on pathology of the oral, dental, and periodontal tissues and their etiology and prevention. Fall. Prerequisite(s): DEN 220 and 225 and BIO 166 and BIO 221 with a Minimum Grade of C or higher
DEN 207 Oral Radiology II
Laboratory activities and experiences are designed to provide students with further practice in developing skills with intra-oral radiographic techniques. In addition, students will learn supplemental techniques that are not limited to, but include occlusal, extra-oral, digital, panoramic and specialized patients. Interpretations of radiographs will be emphasized, with integration of the role radiographs play in the dental hygiene diagnosis and treatment planning. Fall. Prerequisite(s): DEN 106
DEN 212 Pharmacology
This course is designed to educate the dental hygiene student in the principles of pharmacology as they pertain to dentistry. In particular, the student will be taught the basics of organic compound structure, classification and nomenclature by the IUPAC system. The course will cover prescription writing, drug uptake, synthesis and elimination by the body, and the Krebs Cycle. Drugs studied will include, opioids, non-opioids, anti-infective agents, local and general anesthetics, anti-anxiety and psychotherapeutic agents, autonomic drugs, cardiovascular drugs, corticosteroids, hormones, histamines and fluoride. Students will learn how to think critically about a patient’s health history and how the patient’s medications may affect or be affected by dental office procedures. Prerequisite(s): DEN 220, 225 and CHM 124 (or High School Chemistry/Lab), BIO 166, 221 with a grade of C or higher
DEN 220 Preventive Oral Health Concepts II
This course is a continuation of the study of Dental Hygiene. This course includes a detailed study of such preventive dental hygiene techniques as fluorides, nutritional counseling, patient motivation and management, oral physiotherapy techniques. Also covered are discussions on dental hygiene care planning, dental biofilm, calculus, caries, dental products, desensitization, periodontal and restorative charting. A research paper on an aspect of preventive dentistry will be expected from each student. Spring Prerequisite(s): DEN 105, DEN 110, DEN 115, BIO 221 with a grade of C or higher Corequisite(s): DEN 225
DEN 222 Community Oral Health II
This course is a continuation of the study of Community Oral Health I. Public health concepts, theories and their application at the federal, state and local levels will be explored. In addition, students will develop the skills necessary to complete a community oral health needs assessment. Participation in public health education projects is required. Spring Prerequisite(s): DEN 221W
DEN 225 Clinical Dental Hygiene II
A continuation of the practical applications of dental hygiene techniques with supplemental lectures and discussions related to the clinical practice of the dental hygienist. Spring Prerequisite(s): DEN 105, DEN 110, DEN 115 and BIO 221 with a grade of C or higher Corequisite(s): DEN 220
DEN 230 Preventive Oral Health Concepts III
This course is a continuation of the development, assessment and evaluation of dental hygiene practice and knowledge through a variety of classroom techniques. Values' clarification, new advancements/technology, and current preventive methods will be discussed. Preventive oral health techniques and treatment care in association with special needs patients will be emphasized. It is intended that the student will utilize this information to assist him or her clinically to develop a patient specific protocol and comprehensive treatment plan for the child, adolescent, adult, geriatric and medically compromised patient. Fall Prerequisite(s): DEN 220, 225 and BIO 221 Corequisite(s): DEN 235
DEN 235 Clinical Dental Hygiene III
A continuation of the development of and application of dental hygiene skills and knowledge through clinical practice in hospitals and clinics both on and off campus. Clinical participation with new innovations, and current preventive techniques in the practice of dental hygiene and application of the expanded roles of the dental hygienist will be emphasized. Fall Prerequisite(s): DEN 220, 225 and BIO 221 Corequisite(s): DEN 230
DEN 240 Dental Practice Management, Ethics and Jurisprudence
Through a variety of classroom techniques, the development assessment and evaluation of dental hygiene practice will be continued. Lectures and discussions will focus on current issues in dental hygiene including ethics, jurisprudence, dental law, practice management and alternative practice settings. Presentations will be held on resume writing and role playing for job interviewing. Spring Prerequisite(s): DEN 230, 235 Corequisite(s): DEN 245
DEN 245 Clinical Dental Hygiene IV
A continuation of the development of and application of dental hygiene skills and knowledge through clinical practice in hospitals and clinics both on and off campus. Clinical participation with new innovations and current preventive techniques in the practice of dental hygiene and application of the expanded roles of the dental hygienist will be emphasized as well as dental practice management concepts. Spring Prerequisite(s): DEN 201, 230, 235 Corequisite(s): DEN 240