Examines basic concepts of human anatomy and physiology as they relate to health sciences. Using a body systems approach, the course emphasizes the interrelationships between structure and function at the gross and microscopic levels of organization. Intended to prepare health care professionals who need to apply basic concepts of anatomy and physiology to informed decision-making and professional communication in the clinical setting.Student is highly recommended to have completed two semesters of high school chemistry or one semester of college chemistry with a "C" or better. All third attempts for enrollment require Dean/Assoc. Dean approval.

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.

Provides students with skills and knowledge of organic and biological chemistry necessary for application within Nursing and other Allied Health careers. Emphasis is placed on recognizing the structure, physical properties and chemical reactions of organic molecules, body fluids and acids. Additional emphasis is placed on biological functions and their relationships to enzymes, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and DNA.

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.

Investigates historical perspectives of microbiology, microscopy, characteristics of procaryotic and eucaryotic microorganisms, control of microbial growth, microbial genetics, and classification of microorganisms, principles of disease, epidemiology, immunology and pathogenic microbiology.

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.

Prepares Dental Hygienist students to apply detailed knowledge about oral anatomy to planning, implementation, assessment and evaluation of patient care. Students identify distinguishing characteristics of normal and abnormal dental, head and neck anatomy and its relationship to tooth development, eruption and health.

Focuses on the characteristics and contributing factors of dental decay. Dental Hygiene students help patients minimize caries risk by developing treatment plans, communicating methods to patients and evaluating treatment results.

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 the student dental hygienist to determine when to consult, treat or refer clients with various disease, infection or physiological conditions. Students learn to recognize the signs, causes and implications of common pathological conditions including inflammatory responses, immune disorders, genetic disorders, developmental disorders of tissues and cysts, oral tissue trauma and neoplasm of the oral cavity.

Develops writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas and format and design documents based on subject matter and content. Also develops critical reading and thinking skills through the analysis of a variety of written documents.

Learners develop and apply skills in all aspects of the writing process. Through a variety of learning activities and written documents, learners employ rhetorical strategies, plan, organize and revise content, apply critical reading strategies, locate and evaluate information, integrate and document sources, and apply standardized English language conventions.

Prepares student dental hygienists to assess the periodontal health of patients, plan prevention and treatment of periodontal disease and to evaluate the effectiveness of periodontal treatment plans. Emphasis is placed on the recognition of the signs and causes of periodontal disease and on selection of treatment modalities that minimize risk and restore periodontal health.

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.

This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognition, memory, motivation, emotions, personality, abnormal psychology, physiological factors, social influences, and development.

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 auxiliary students to handle and prepare dental materials such as liners, bases, cements, amalgam, resin restorative materials, gypsum products and impression materials. They also learn to take alginate impressions on manikins and clean removable appliances. This course is aligned to serve students in the Dental Hygienist Associate Degree and Dental Assistant Technical Diploma programs.

Prepares student dental hygienists to select safe and effective patient premedication and within the scope of dental hygiene practice. Students will also learn to recognize potential pharmacological contraindications for specific patients and to take measures to avoid negative impact or alert other members of the dental team to possible negative impact.

Prepares the Dental Hygienist student to play a proactive role in improving the dental health of community members of all ages. Students perform and interpret dental health research to determine community dental health needs. They also participate in the development, implementation and evaluation of a community dental health program.

Introduces students to the fundamental sociological concepts, including sociological perspectives, research methods, the significance of culture in society, and the socialization process. Other topics include deviance, the impact of groups on behavior, societal inequities, global changes, the role of social institutions, and social stratification

This course prepares the learner or graduate for licensure. Simulated written and practical examinations. Individualized study plans, stress/test anxiety management strategies, and dental hygiene license obtainment are addressed. Course goal is to strengthen learner performance on written board and clinical practical examinations. No challenge test available.

Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.

Explores the fundamentals of effective oral presentation to small and large groups. Topic selection, audience analysis, methods of organization, research, supporting evidence, delivery techniques, active listening, and other essential elements of speaking successfully, form the basis of the course. Includes informative, persuasive, and occasion speech presentations. Audience requirements to be determined by individual colleges.

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.

Developmental Psychology is the study of human development throughout the lifespan. This course explores developmental theory and research with an emphasis on the interactive nature of the biological, cognitive and psychosocial changes that affect the individual from conception to death. Application activities and critical thinking skills will enable students to gain an increased knowledge and understanding of themselves and others.

This course introduces the study of diversity from a local to a global perspective using a holistic, interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration and prepares students to work in a diverse environment. The course introduces basic diversity concepts, examines the impact of bias and power differentials among groups, explores the use of culturally responsive communication strategies, and compares forces that shape diversity in an international context.

This course prepares the student dental hygienist to work within the scope of dental hygiene practice to manage anxiety and pain for dental patients. Students learn to prepare and administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide safely. The course also addresses the recommendation of alternative pain control measures.