Dental Hygiene

Bachelor of Science Degree

The Bachelor of Science in 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. This optional BS program will offer students a broad foundation of knowledge that will prepare them for the emerging roles within oral healthcare.  The optional BS program in Dental Hygiene is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been 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 a Bachelor of Science degree and are eligible to sit for the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination, as well as State and Regional Practical Board Examinations for dental hygienists.

As the dental hygiene profession continues to expand, career opportunities beyond clinical practice will require a higher level credential such as a bachelor’s degree.  Emphasis is placed on broadening the career paths for practicing hygienists. Foundation courses are in the areas of teaching, research and public health with an emphasis on service learning and inter-professional collaboration. Although the clinical role is most closely connected with dental hygiene, it is only one of six roles formally designated for the hygienist, which include educator, researcher, administrator, change agent, and consumer advocate. The Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene is designed to provide comprehensive upper-level studies that will prepare dental hygienists to adapt to the emerging new roles in oral healthcare.  All aspects of dental hygiene are incorporated into the theoretical framework and practical experiences of the curriculum.  The program includes general education as well as specialized coursework 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. In addition students in the Bachelor curriculum will participate in a number of off campus clinical rotations in hospital settings.

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 (BS) Program Outcomes:

  • Graduates will identify the 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 explain the role of leadership, management, and technology as it applies to dental hygiene practice.
  • Graduates will develop the skills necessary to analyze and apply scientific literature in the dental hygiene process of care. 
  • Graduates will demonstrate an understanding of the learning process, various teaching methodologies and evaluation techniques as they apply to the dental hygiene educator.
  • Graduates will practice professional judgment and critical thinking skills for recognition and management of ethical, legal and regulatory issues. 
  • Graduates will demonstrate a sense of professionalism as health care providers including self-assessment and will seek educational advancement for continued growth and development following commencement.

Special Opportunities

As a student in the Dental Hygiene Bachelor of 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.

NYS Mandatory Licensure Disclosure Statement

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.

Dental Hygiene | Dr. Susan Vogell | dentalhygiene@farmingdale.edu | 934-420-2060

Fall 2024

Subject to revision

College Requirement (1 credit)
FYE 101 First Year Experience* 1

Liberal Arts and Sciences (60 credits)
BIO 166 Anatomy & Physiology (GE) 4
CHM 140 Intro to General, Organic & Biochemistry (GE) 4
BIO 221 Oral Microbiology (GE) 4
EGL 101 Composition I: College Writing (GE) 3
EGL 102 Composition II: Writing About Literature 3
MTH 110 Statistics (GE) 3
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology (GE) 3
SOC 228 Society & Health (GE) 3
SPE 202 Interpersonal Communications (GE) 3
SPE 330 Professional and Technical Speech 3
US History and Civic Engagement/World History and Global Awareness(GE) 3
The Arts (GE) 3
World Languages Level I (GE) 3
World Languages Level II (GE) 3
Humanities (GE) 3
Upper Level Liberal Arts & Science Elective (300 level & above) 12

Required: Dental Hygiene (65 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 Concepts I 2
DEN 115 Clinical Dental Hygiene I 3
DEN 126 Periodontology 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 225 Clinical Dental Hygiene II 3
DEN 302 Principles of Dental Anesthesia 2
DEN 310 Teaching Strategies for Health Educators 3
DEN 322 Dental Public Health Planning 3
DEN 330 Essentials of Clinical Practice Theory 2
DEN 335 Essentials of Clinical Practice I 4
DEN 340 Dental Hygiene Law and Practice Management 2
DEN 345 Essentials of Clinical Practice II 4
DEN 401W Health Science Research Principles & Methods 3
DEN 406W Proposals & Grant Management for Health Programs 3
DEN 430 Senior Seminar I 1
DEN 435 Advanced Dental Hygiene Practice I 3
DEN 440 Senior Seminar II 1
DEN 445 Advanced Dental Hygiene Practice II 3
Total Credits 125-126

Curriculum Summary

All courses with a DEN prefix must be completed in residency.

*FYE 101 First Year Experience is required for all first time full time students

Degree Type: BS
Total Required Credits: 125-126

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:
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.
1. 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.
2. Students must be certified in Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers prior to entering the clinical sequence
3. 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.
4. Students are required to purchase their own instruments and specific clinically related supplies.
5. 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.
6. Students are also required to provide their own patients (approximately 8) for clinic during the second semester of the program.

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

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

CHM 140 Introduction to General, Organic and Biochemistry

A one semester course with laboratory designed primarily for Dental Hygiene students. Basic principles of general, organic and biochemistry are presented with emphasis on their applications to health science. Topics include measurement, states of matter, bonding theory, solutions, acids, buffers and pH, and the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, sterols, amino acids and proteins and a molecular approach to enzymatic action, digestion, metabolism and nutrition. Note: the laboratory course CHM 140L is a part of your grade for this course. Attendance in the laboratory course is required. Approved eye-protection and a laboratory coat are required materials. A student must pass the laboratory course to receive a passing grade in the entire course. Prerequisite(s): MP2 or MTH 015 and High School chemistry with Laboratory or CHM 124.

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.

EGL 102 Composition II: Writing About Literature

This is the second part of the required introductory English composition sequence. This course builds on writing skills developed in EGL 101, specifically the ability to write analytical and persuasive essays and to use research materials correctly and effectively. Students read selections from different literary genres (poetry, drama, and narrative fiction). Selections from the literature provide the basis for analytical and critical essays that explore the ways writers use works of the imagination to explore human experience. Grade of C or higher is a graduation requirement. Prerequisite(s): EGL 101

MTH 110 Statistics

Basic concepts of probability and statistical inference. Included are the binominal, normal, and chi-square distributions. Practical applications are examined. Computer assignments using Minitab form an integral part of the course. Prerequisite(s): MP2 or MTH 015

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 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

SPE 330 Professional and Technical Speech

A course designed to prepare students to develop and deliver oral presentations in a professional, business, scientific, or technical context, stressing methods of presenting information specific to students’ disciplines. Students use audio-visual materials or technology to enhance their presentations. Prerequisite(s): EGL 102

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 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 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 302 Principles of Dental Anesthesia

This course is designed to provide an in depth study of anesthesia and pain management through the use of local anesthetic agents and the administration of nitrous oxide and oxygen sedation. The mechanism of actions of anesthetic agents as well as indications and contraindications for use, and the treatment of complications and emergencies are stressed. Other methods of pain control will be discussed through research and presentations. This course meets the New York State Education’s Department’s requirements for certification in the administration and monitoring of local infiltration anesthesia and nitrous oxide analgesia in the practice of dental hygiene. This course has a co-requisite laboratory that allows students the opportunity to practice efficient techniques of pain management through local anesthesia on clinical partners under the direct supervision of clinical faculty. Prerequisite(s): DEN 102, DEN 105, DEN 106, DEN 126, DEN 212, DEN 220, and DEN 225 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 302L

DEN 310 Teaching Strategies for Health Care Educators

The Principles of education, teaching, methodology, and instructional design utilized by health care educators in schools, community outreach, hospitals, other skilled nursing facilities, and/or higher education institutions are covered in this course. Topics include performance objectives, competencies, lesson planning, syllabi construction, analysis, and formative evaluation of instruction; traditional and non-traditional teaching methodologies; academic course development; current issues in dental health and dental hygiene education. Spring Prerequisite(s): DEN 220 or Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene.

DEN 322 Dental Public Health Planning

This course will provide the students with the concepts of dental public health. These principles include health literacy, oral epidemiology, and methods used to measure dental disease in a given population. Emphasis will be placed on the process of program assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation to design an intervention program to improve oral health in the community. Evidence-based prevention and research principles will be explored. In addition, students will be involved in statistical analyses that will prepare them to become patient advocates and resource persons in the dental public health setting. Prerequisite(s): DEN 310 with a grade of C or higher.

DEN 330 Essentials of Clinical Practice Theory

This course is designed to increase the knowledge of dental hygiene practice. It is a continuation of the development, and assessment of the dental hygiene process of care. This course combines the integration of theory with clinical experience in a variety of oral hygiene preventive and therapeutic procedures. New advancements in patient care as well as the introduction of new technology and current preventive methods will be analyzed and discussed. Students will apply the knowledge gained and utilize the information to develop patient specific protocols and comprehensive treatment plans in the provision of care for the child, adolescent, adult, geriatric and special needs patient. Prerequisite(s): DEN 220, DEN 225, BIO 221 with a grade of C or higher Corequisite(s): DEN 335

DEN 335 Essentials of Clinical Practice I

This clinical course is designed to build on the foundational knowledge of dental hygiene care. There is a concentration on the development of clinical skills through the application and delivery of oral health services. A case based approach is implemented, with emphasis on dental hygiene concepts, to foster critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Clinical experiences focus on advanced instrumentation techniques and innovative advancements that include diagnostic, therapeutic and treatment technologies. Prerequisite(s): DEN 126, DEN 220, DEN 225 and BIO 221 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 330

DEN 340 Dental Hygiene Law & Practice Management

This course will focus on the professional responsibility of dental hygienists. Emphasis will be placed on dental law, the professional code of ethics, core values, and standards. Situations focusing on integrity and ethical decision making will be highlighted. Additionally, topics ranging from non-traditional career paths, the changing role of the dental hygienist in alternative practice opportunities including self-regulation and independent practice will be reviewed. Relevant aspects of the political and economic influences of managed care and its impact on the profession of dental hygiene will be discussed. Prerequisite(s): DEN 302, DEN 330, DEN 335, and BIO 221 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 345

DEN 345 Essentials of Clinical Practice II

This course is a continuation of the development 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. Prerequisite(s): DEN 302, DEN 330, DEN 335 Corequisite(s): DEN 340

DEN 401W Health Science Research: Principles and Methods (Writing Intensive)

A profession seeking to enhance its professional stature strives for the continual development of a scientific body of knowledge fundamental to its practice. Dental hygiene research involves a systematic search for knowledge about issues of importance to the dental hygiene profession. This course is designed to develop skills in scientific research. Emphasis is placed on the research process which includes problem identification, hypothesis writing, research design data collection, and data analysis and data interpretation. This is a writing-intensive course. Fall Note: DEN 401W can be used to fulfill the writing intensive requirement. Prerequisite(s): (Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene and MTH 110) or (EGL101 with a C or higher and DEN 220 and DEN 322)

DEN 406W Proposals and Grant Management for Health Programs (Writing Intensive)

This course will introduce the student to the fundamentals of proposal writing and researching grant funding sources. Students will demonstrate the preparation of supporting documentation of need, implementation, evaluation, and budgeting. The culminating project of the course will be assembling the segments of a program proposal or grant application into a final document that is worthy of submission. This is a writing-intensive course. Spring Note: DEN 406W can be used to fulfill the writing intensive requirement. Prerequisite(s): Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene and EGL 101 with a C or higher and DEN 309 or DEN 322

DEN 430 Senior Seminar I

This course will enable students to explore the role of the dental hygienist in a multidisciplinary setting while examining the principles of leadership and professional development. The course will provide information on leadership styles, qualities, traits, and virtues, mentoring, advocacy, self-reflection, and team approach healthcare. In addition, the students will identify their leadership strengths and behavioral profile. The course will encourage students to consider opportunities for professional development and team based collaborative healthcare relative to dental hygiene. Prerequisite(s): DEN 340 and DEN 345 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 435 Credit: 1

DEN 435 Advanced Dental Hygiene Practice I

This course will provide students the opportunity to advance their instrumentation and patient management skills through the participation in a dental hygiene residency program at various health care settings. Additionally, this course will emphasize the treatment of the periodontally involved patient including assessment, treatment planning, implementation of care and maintenance. Students will apply the concepts of peer evaluation and interprofessional education to prepare them for the demands of treating the more complicated patient in today’s healthcare environment. Time management skills will be enhanced in order to prepare students for demanding patient schedules in the workplace. Prerequisite(s): DEN 302 and DEN 340 and DEN 345 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 430

DEN 440 Senior Seminar II

This course will allow students to master the concepts of dental hygiene production in a dental healthcare setting. Students will investigate alternative practice settings and the emerging roles of the dental hygienist. Additionally, students will examine the role of financial planning, maximizing resources and career management, in order to gain the necessary skills for a successful dental healthcare practice. Prerequisite(s): DEN 430 and DEN 435 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 445 Credit: 1

DEN 445 Advanced Dental Hygiene Practice II

This course is a continuation of Advanced Dental Hygiene Practice I. This capstone course will require students to present case studies utilizing advanced dental hygiene practice skills. Additionally, students will spend time in a healthcare facility dental hygiene residency program. Students will also provide care to patients in the Dental Hygiene Care Center at Gleeson Hall. Prerequisite(s): DEN 430 and DEN 435 with a grade of C or higher. Corequisite(s): DEN 440

Last Modified 8/19/24