Dental Hygiene (DHP)

Includes basic assessment and clinical skills, related theory, professional role and responsibilities of the dental hygienist as a member of the dental health team. BIO 137 and BIO 139 or equivalent, with a grade of "C" or better. Lecture: 2.5 credits (37.5 contact hours); Clinical: 1.5 hours (180 contact hours).

Presents basic principles of nutrition with emphasis on nutritional counseling in relationship to dental health, determination of patient nutritional status, and application to oral health and effects of nutritional deficiencies. BIO 137 and BIO 139 or equivalent, with a grade of "C" or better. Lecture: 2.0 credits ( 30 contact hours).

Focuses on oral histology and embryology, head and neck anatomy, and dental morphology applicable to the practice of dental hygiene. BIO 137 and BIO 139 or equivalent both with a minimum grade of C. Integrated Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours). Integrated Lab: 1 credit (45 contact hours).

Examines the physical and chemical properties of dental materials with an emphasis on composition and application. BIO 137 and BIO 139 or equivalent, both with a minimum grade of C. Lecture: 1.5 credits (22.5 contact hours). Laboratory: 0.5 credits (22.5 contact hours).

Focuses on preparing the student to provide patient treatment that includes preventive and therapeutic procedures to maintain oral health and assist the patient in achieving oral health goals. Lecture: 2.0 credits (30 contact hours). Clinical: 1.0 credit (120 contact hours).

Covers the disciplines of general pathology, oral pathology, pharmacology, and therapeutics as related to dental hygiene care. Integrated Lecture: 2.5 credits (37.5 contact hours). Integrated Laboratory: 1.5 credits (67.5 contact hours).

Introduces theory and clinical practice of oral radiography. Presents the history, development, properties and uses of x-radiation. Emphasizes radiation hygiene and safety. Covers digital technology and all types of radiographic systems. Introduces radiographic anatomical landmarks and pathology seen on radiographs. Lecture: 2.5 credits (37.5 contact hours). Laboratory: 0.5 credit (30 contact hours).

Introduces the clinical, histological, and radiographic differences between healthy and unhealthy periodontal tissues. Emphasizes etiology, risk factor assessment, pathogenesis, and classification of periodontal diseases. Lecture: 2.0 credits (30 contact hours).

Emphasizes the continued treatment of clinical patients. Focuses on treatment and management of dental patients with special needs and emphasizes appropriate changes in dental treatment in response to a patient's medical condition. Clinical: 2.0 credits (240 contact hours). Discussion: 1.0 credit (15 contact hours).

Focuses on the specific oral health care needs of persons with a variety of medical, disabling or mental conditions and provides for discussion of innovative approaches to serving populations with special oral health care needs. Emphasizes special pharmacological considerations and treatment modifications. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Emphasizes the role of the dental hygienist in the identification and treatment of periodontal diseases. Focuses on non-surgical interventions and current surgical therapies in dentistry. Introduces implant management, advanced instrumentation and the dental laser. Lecture: 1.5 credits (22.5 contact hours). Laboratory: 0.5 credit (30 contact hours).

Presents a conceptual framework and clinical skills necessary to administer local dental anesthetics and nitrous oxide sedation in accordance with Kentucky state dental practice act. Lecture: 1.25 credits (18.75 contact hours). Lab: 0.75 credit (45 contact hours).

Focuses on mastery of all dental hygiene clinical skills utilized in treating all types of patients. Clinical: 2.0 credits (240 contact hours). Discussion: 1.0 credit (15 contact hours).

Emphasizes the legal, ethical, and managerial aspects of dental hygiene practice. Lecture: 1.0 credit (15 contact hours).

Examines the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of community oral health needs. Focuses on reading and interpreting evidence-based literature. Relates current trends and best practices in oral health education. Emphasizes the presentation of dental health programs and educational research projects to community groups. Lecture: 2.0 credits (30 contact hours). Lab: 1.0 credit (30 contact hours).