Dental (DENT)

DENT 094 CET Non-credit Dental Course

CEUs: 14

Term: (varies)

Non-credit continuing education and training (CET) courses offered to provide condensed coursework to meet the needs of working students and professionals. Please refer to the CET website for detailed course/program information.

DENT 101 Introduction to Dental Hygiene/Preclinic

Credits: 2 (30 Lecture Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course is an introduction to the dental clinic and dental hygiene profession. This course presents both the theoretical basis and the clinical application of the numerous procedures performed by the dental hygienist. Includes infection control, client management and positioning, ergonomics, assessment data gathering and documentation, as well as an introduction to the principles of basic dental instruments and their application for basic dental hygiene treatment.

DENT 102 Introduction to Dental Hygiene/Preclinic Lab

Credits: 2 (60 Lab Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

Entry level practical experience to complement the didactic information provided in DENT 101. This course allows the student basic experience in obtaining and documenting client assessment data. Basic instrumentation techniques will be practiced.

DENT 105 Professional Issues/Ethics in Dental I

Credits: 1

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A study of the legal restrictions and ethical responsibilities associated with the practice of dental hygiene and dentistry, including but not limited to decision making, informed consent, and HIPPA Law.

DENT 110 Theory of Infection Control and Disease Prevention

Credits: 1 (15 Online Lecture Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene or Dental Assistant Program

This course introduces the infection and hazard control procedures necessary for the safety of dental professionals and their clients during the practice of dentistry. Topics include microbiology, practical infection control, sterilization and monitoring, chemical disinfectants, aseptic techniques, infectious diseases, and OSHA standards.

DENT 115 Head, Neck, and Oral Anatomy

Credits: 3

Term: (F)

The majority of this course presents content in head, neck, focusing on osteology of the skull, muscles, nerves, and arteries of the head and neck, salivary glands, and the temporomandibular joint. Basic human anatomy and physiology concepts are also covered to provide the student an overall foundation to the dental sciences. Students successfully completing this course will be able to apply basic head and neck anatomic theory to laboratory and clinical settings.

DENT 116 Dental Office Management

Credits: 2

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Assistant Program

This course exposes students to various front office procedures and dental practice management responsibilities commonly performed in a professional dental office. Students will learn the fundamentals of computer use in the dental practice by utilizing a dental practice management software package. Skills include creating patient records and a database to set up patient accounts, scheduling appointments, billing patient and third parties, and processing payments and reports. HIPAA regulations and other legal expectations within the healthcare field will also be discussed. This course is offered in hybrid format with both online and on-campus requirements.

DENT 118 Head & Neck Anatomy for the Hygienist

Credits: 3 (45 Lecture Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course focuses on a systemic approach to the study of head and neck anatomy with an emphasis on those structures associated with the oral cavity. Students successfully completing this course will be able to apply basic head and neck anatomic theory to laboratory and clinical settings to prepare for patient care.

DENT 119 Dental Anatomy

Credits: 1

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene or Dental Assistant Program

This course focuses on dentition and dental morphology. Basic terminology for understanding tooth morphology is reviewed by the instructor. Anatomic design and tooth numbering systems are emphasized as well as eruption stages, occlusion, terminology used to describe the tissues of the teeth, and basic introduction to the periodontium. Students successfully completing this course will be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of dental anatomy and communicate using appropriate dental terminology as it relates to the practice of dentistry.

DENT 120 Oral Radiology/Radiography I

Credits: 3

Term: (Currently not offered)

Corequisite: DENT 115

This course is the first of a series of two courses and includes both didactic and laboratory instruction. Content in this course includes the history and terminology of oral radiography, radiation physics, infection control, radiology supplies/equipment and its functions, intraoral paralleling exposure technique, darkroom procedures, biological effects of radiation and radiation protection, and mounting of radiographs. The practical component applies radiographic theory and technique in practice.

DENT 121 Oral Radiology/Radiography II

Credits: 2

Term: (Currently not offered)

Prerequisite: DENT 115, DENT 120

This course includes didactic, laboratory, and clinic instruction. Content in this course emphasizes quality intraoral techniques (utilizing paralleling, bisecting, and specialty techniques), extraoral radiography, quality assurance, identifying and correcting undiagnostic radiographs, radiograph interpretation and assessment, patient relations, and application of theory in the lab/clinic setting. As an additional content area, digital radiography is emphasized in both theory and practice, and students apply this knowledge in Eaglesoft software and the use of Schick digital sensors. Students are expected to obtain their own prescription patients for final full mouth series. Dental assistant program students will be prepared to sit for the oral radiology component of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) examination upon successful completion of this course.

DENT 122 Radiology I/Lab

Credits: 2 (1 Lecture, 1 Lab)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene or Dental Assistant Program

This course is the first part of a two semester course. This semester will provide the foundation for the safe, effective use of radiation in the modern dental office. This course will involve the study of dental radiology and its application. At the completion of this course, students will be able to safely expose an image and understand what our legal and ethical responsibilities are in regards to radiation exposure. Emphasis will be placed on the following foundational knowledge: radiation physics, radiation biology, and radiation health and protection. Student learning outcomes will include techniques of intraoral and extraoral radiography, diagnostic quality of dental radiographs and digital imaging, as well as recognition of normal radiographic anatomy. Hands-on experience with digital radiography will be provided via lab sessions. DXXTR manikins will be utilized by the students in lab sessions as well as community patients, which will aid in better understanding and experience in all techniques. This course is both a lecture course and a lab.

DENT 123 Chairside Theory and Practice I

Credits: 4

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Assistant Program

Corequisite: DENT 110, DENT 115

Chairside Theory and Practice I covers all aspects of the clinical dental assistant’s duties in a general dental practice. It includes lecture, laboratory, and clinical sessions covering infection control procedures, dental instruments, equipment, impression materials, basic lab and chairside procedures (including patient preparation, medical history review, taking vital signs, dental charting, taking impressions, creating study models, and dental amalgam). Occupational safety and infection control is emphasized throughout the course.

DENT 124 Chairside Theory and Practice II

Credits: 5

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: DENT 110, DENT 115, and DENT 123

Chairside II is a continuation of Chairside I and includes lecture, laboratory, and clinical sessions. Content includes emphasis on esthetic restorative procedures, dental dam, coronal polishing, pit and fissure sealant placement, fluoride treatments, dental cements use and manipulation, specialty procedures, custom trays, golds, waxes, and fabrication and placement of temporary crowns and restorations. Students will complete clinical practice hours in assigned clinical sites during the semester.

DENT 125 Radiology II/Lab

Credits: 2 (1 Lecture, 1 Lab)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program, and successful completion of DENT 122.

This course will utilize all foundational knowledge received in DENT 122 Oral Radiology. This course will provide necessary skills to properly evaluate and interpret all radiographic series.

DENT 126 Radiology I Enhancement

Credits: 1

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Assistant Program

Corequisite: DENT 122

This course is a corequisite with DENT 122 for all dental assistant program students. It serves to enhance the information from the corequisite DENT 122 course. Topics covered include, but are not limited to, radiation physics, radiation characteristics, and radiation biology.

DENT 130 Dental Materials

Credits: 2 (15 Lecture Hours, 30 Lab Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

Materials most often used in dentistry are studied, focusing on the characteristics, physical properties, manipulation, and practical application of each material. Safety precautions relating to each material and procedure are emphasized.

DENT 140 Dental Sciences/ Preventive Dentistry

Credits: 4

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: DENT 115, DENT 123

This course includes the study of the oral plaque diseases and their prevention as well as an introduction to the science-based subjects of oral pathology, pharmacology, nutrition, and medical emergencies. Focus will be on the theory of the oral plaque diseases processes, the identification of associated pathologies, and the prevention of the diseases. Specific content areas also include caries risk assessment, drug classifications and interactions, fluoride use, oral hygiene techniques, oral health promotion, and patient education.

DENT 145 Dental Specialties

Credits: 3

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: DENT 115, DENT 123

The clinical specialties course includes an introduction to six dental specialties: periodontics, endodontics, fixed and removable prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics. It includes theory in the individual specialties along with procedure set-ups (armamentarium), materials used, and instrumentation. An observation in a specialty office will be completed by each student. The student will also apply the knowledge in the laboratory and clinical setting.

DENT 150 Clinical Dental Hygiene Theory I

Credits: 2 (30 Lecture Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course provides foundational knowledge and basic theory for the practice of Dental Hygiene. Topics include: defined roles of the dental hygienist, dental hygiene process of care, caries and periodontal risk assessment, dental hygiene care plan, oral hygiene assessment, use of fluoride, oral malodor, dentifrices, oral hygiene instruction/devices for oral self-care, dentition assessment, charting, and medical/dental emergencies. Theory background is used to support all clinical activities in DENT 151.

DENT 151 Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice I

Credits: 4 (180 Clinical Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course introduces comprehensive dental hygiene treatment for healthy adults, pediatric and adolescent patients. Students will be introduced to dental clinic procedures, policies, digital record management, along with instrumentation and patient assessment. This course accompanies DENT 150 Clinical Dental Hygiene Theory I.

DENT 160 Periodontology I

Credits: 3 (45 Lecture Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

An introduction to the science and management of periodontal diseases. Emphasis on the etiology and classification of the disease, along with an overview of the anatomy and histology of periodontal structures and oral biofilms. The dental hygienist's role in the recognition and prevention of the disease will be explored. This course will correlate theory with clinical activities in DENT 250, DENT 252 and DENT 281.

DENT 165 Oral Histology and Embryology

Credits: 2 (30 Lecture Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course provides a basic understanding of the histologic structures of the head and neck region and the amazing process of embryonic development. The field of oral histology and embryology and its pertinence to clinical dental hygiene will be explored.

DENT 191 Special Topics: Dental Assisting

Credits: 1-3

Term: (Based on sufficient demand)

This course provides an opportunity to study current Dental Assisting topics. Course content may vary each semester.

DENT 195 Clinical Office Practice and Seminar

Credits: 7

Term: (Su)

Prerequisite: Completion of Dental Assistant courses and consent of program faculty

This is the capstone course for the Dental Assistant program and requires the student to integrate and apply all dental concepts from earlier coursework to the clinical setting. It involves rotated extramural clinical office experience in the dental community, where students actively participate in the operation of the dental practice as dental assistants in training. The seminar component of the course introduces a student to job search strategies, interview techniques, and preparation of personal resumes and cover letters. This course is offered in hybrid format having clinical, online, and on-campus requirements.

DENT 205 Professional Issues/Ethics in Dental II

Credits: 1

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of the study of legal restrictions and ethical responsibilities associated with the practice of dental hygiene and dentistry, including but not limited to workplace issues, practice management, and future preparedness.

DENT 223 Clinical Dental Hygiene Theory II

Credits: 2 (30 Lecture Hours)

Term: (Su)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of DENT 150, this course increases the emphasis on the principles of instrumentation in periodontal therapy. Topics will include power scaling, air powered polishing, tobacco education, and effective ergonomic principles. Students will be introduced to various adjunctive services that can be integrated to provide comprehensive client care. Theory background is used to support activities in DENT 251.

DENT 232 Community Dental Health and Education

Credits: 2 (30 Lecture and Community Service Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A presentation of various methods and material used in community dental health education. The course provides an understanding of basic research and statistical concepts needed for sound community health practices. Emphasis on the use of evidenced based philosophy for acquiring, assessing, interpreting, critically analyzing, and incorporating scientific literature into community health practices. Field assignments in selected social settings and the development of a community project including assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation components will encourage lifelong participation in community dental health care and volunteerism.

DENT 237 Gerontology and Special Needs Patients

Credits: 2 (30 Lecture Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course provides preparation for clinical experiences with geriatric and patients with special needs. The course will explore the aging process from a physical, social, psychological, and financial perspective as well as the disease processes of special needs individuals. Emphasis will be placed on accommodation and innovative management of special needs/systemic diseases that are presented during client dental treatment.

DENT 240 Local Anesthesia/Nitrous Oxide Theory and Lab

Credits: 2 (15 Lecture Hours and 30 Lab Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course is a combination of didactic learning as well as hands-on experience with a lab component. The course builds upon prior foundational knowledge of neurophysiology and dental anatomy as well as introducing pharmacology of local anesthetics and vasoconstrictors. Considerable attention is spent on the following areas, specifically as they pertain to the proper administration of dental local anesthesia: the drugs, the armamentarium, the techniques, and the complications. Emphasis will be placed on Emergency Medicine in the dental office to ensure proper preparation and management of common medical emergencies. Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Sedation will focus on equipment and safety as well as systemic effects and administration techniques.

DENT 250 Clinical Dental Hygiene Theory III

Credits: 2 (15 Lecture Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of DENT 223, this course expands beyond the basic concepts of dental hygiene theory with exposure to more difficult oral conditions and various modes of treatment. Topics include: effective patient communication, aspects of cultural diversity in regard to patient communication and treatment, dental hygiene care plan, phases of treatment, coding treatment, root morphology, advanced instrumentation, and advanced fulcrums. This course is offered in conjunction with DENT 252.

DENT 251 Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice II

Credits: 4 (180 Clinical Hours)

Term: (Su)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of DENT 151, this course provides additional practical experience in clinical patient treatment with an emphasis on comprehensive care for healthy adults, adults with gingivitis, children and adolescents. Offered in conjunction with DENT 223.

DENT 252 Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice III

Credits: 5 (225 Clinical Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of DENT 251, this course provides comprehensive care for adults with gingivitis, periodontal disease, as well as care for specific population groups such as geriatric, medically compromised, and special needs. Increased patient load is required. This course is offered in conjunction with DENT 250.

DENT 260 Periodontology II

Credits: 1

Term: (Su)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

This course is a continuation of DENT 160 Periodontology I. In this course the principles of periodontal surgery and implantology will be discussed. Discussions of referrals will occur with emphasis on the role the dental hygienist plays in the field of dentistry. Individualized treatment plans will also be emphasized in this course.

DENT 263 General and Oral Pathology

Credits: 3 (45 Lecture Hours)

Term: (F)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

Pathology is the science that studies diseases. This course will present various pathologic processes; including pathogenesis, etiology, inflammation, tumor development, systemic manifestations, and developmental disturbances. This course’s emphasis is the study of oral diseases and the recognition of their conditions. Students will utilize this information during their clinical practice.

DENT 280 Clinical Dental Hygiene Theory IV

Credits: 1 (15 Lecture Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of DENT 250, this course includes advanced dental hygiene theory that will increase the student’s knowledge of the profession. Attention will be given to preparation for the National Board and Regional Board exams. Students will continue to explore both Advanced and Reinforced instrumentation techniques as well as Extraoral Fulcruming techniques. Emphasis will be focused toward exploration of the Dental Specialties, specifically Periodontics, Pedodontics, Oral Surgery, and Prosthodontics. Students will continue building their case study and present the case to faculty and peers. Theory background will be used to support all activities in DENT 281.

DENT 281 Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice IV

Credits: 5 (225 Clinical Hours)

Term: (S)

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program

A continuation of DENT 252, this course provides a variety of advanced clinical experiences with an emphasis on complex periodontal cases. This course also focuses on self-evaluation and board preparation. This course is in conjunction with DENT 280 Clinical Dental Hygiene Theory IV.

DENT 292 Clinical DH Practice IV Independent Study

Credits: 1-3 (225 Clinical Hours)

Term: (Su)

Additional clinical instruction to complete outstanding clinical requirements included in DENT 281 Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice IV along with a demonstration of scaling competency on a NEW Adult client with an III-IV AAP and C/D calculus level classification.