Prepares dental auxiliary students to respond proactively to dental emergencies, control infection, prevent disease, adhere to OSHA Standards and safely manage hazardous materials. Students also take patient vital signs and collect patient medical/dental histories. CPR certification is a prerequisite; students will be required to show proof of certification before beginning the course. This course is a WTCS aligned course required in both the Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant programs. This course must be taken at NTC, no transfers, because the content of this course is specific for this program/site.
Prepares dental auxiliary students to operate radiographic equipment and expose bitewing, periapical, extra oral, and occlusal images. Emphasis is placed on protection against x-ray hazards. Students also produce, mount, and evaluate dental images for diagnostic value. This course also provides the background in radiographic theory required for students to make informed decisions and adjustments.
This clinical course builds on and expands the technical/clinical skills student dental hygienists developed in Dental Hygiene Process II. In consultation with the instructor, students apply independent problem-solving skills in the course of providing comprehensive care for calculus case type I, II and III patients and case type 0, I, II and III patients. Dental Hygiene Process III introduces root detoxification using hand and ultra-sonic instruments, laser bacterial reduction, selection of dental implant prophylaxis treatment options and administration of chemotherapeutic agents. Students also adapt care plans in order to accommodate patients with special needs.
Prepares dental assistant students to chart oral cavity structures, dental pathology and restorations and to assist a dentist with basic dental procedures including examinations, pain control, amalgam restoration and cosmetic restoration. Students will also develop the ability to educate patients about preventive dentistry, brushing and flossing techniques and dental procedures, using lay terminology.
Introduces Dental Hygiene students to the basic technical/clinical skills required of practicing Dental Hygienists including use of basic dental equipment, examination of patients and procedures within the dental unit. Under the direct supervision of an instructor, students integrate hands-on skills with entry-level critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The course also reinforces the application of Dental Health Safety skills.
Helps student dental hygienists develop and apply high professional and ethical standards. Students apply the laws that govern the practice of dental hygiene to their work with patients, other members of a dental team and the community. Emphasis is placed on maintaining confidentiality and obtaining informed consent. Students enhance their ability to present a professional appearance.
Prepares student dental hygienists to counsel patients about diet and its impact on oral health. Students learn to distinguish between balanced and unbalanced diets and to construct diets that meet the needs of patients with compromised dental/oral health. Students also learn to counsel patients about the effect of eating disorders on dental health.
This clinical course builds on and expands the technical/clinical skills student dental hygienists began developing in Dental Hygiene Process 1. Under the direct supervision of an instructor, students apply patient care assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation skills to provide comprehensive care for calculus case type 1 and 2 patients and perio case patients.
Apprentices will examine packing, seals and gaskets and compare materials and applications. Then skill in layout, cutting, inspecting, removing and installing these components will be developed.
Course compares different pump types and their applications. Apprentices will complete a field inspection of pumps and learn how to troubleshoot, remove, overhaul, install and perform preventative maintenance on pumps.
This clinical course builds on and expands the technical/clinical skills student dental hygienists developed in Dental Hygiene Process III. With feedback from the instructor, students manage all aspects of cases in the course of providing comprehensive care for calculus case type 0, 1, 2, and 3 patients and for perio case type 0 I, II, and III patients. Emphasizes maximization of clinical efficiency and effectiveness. Prepares student dental hygienists to demonstrate their clinical skills in a formal examination situation.
