DHCA

Classes

DHCA1203 : Dental Anatomy/Tooth Morphology

This course emphasizes the anatomical structures of tooth morphology for the Dental Hygiene student. Emphasis will be on clinical appearance of oral structures, dental terminology, morphology of the permanent and primary dentition patterns, and the occlusion and malocclusion within the dental arches.

Credit Hours

2

Prerequisites

BIOL1431, BIOL1411, BIOL1421

DHCA1208 : Head & Neck Anatomy

This course emphasizes the anatomical structures of the head and neck. Course content includes the study of osteology, musculature, neurology, vasculature, Lymph, Glands and nerves of the head and neck.

Credit Hours

2.5

Prerequisites

BIOL1431, BIOL1411, BIOL1421

DHCA1307 : General and Maxillofacial Pathology

This course provides the student with practical information to aid in the diagnosis of oral injury and disease. The focus is on etiology, clinical features, treatment, and prognosis.

Credit Hours

3

DHCA1401 : Dental Radiography

In this course, the student relates the essential theory of radiography to practice and applies basic radiographic techniques utilized in dental hygiene. The student analyzes radiographic films, interprets and identifies anatomical landmarks, radiographic quality and abnormalities. Students appraise the value of new technologies in radiography.

Credit Hours

4

DHCA1405 : Pre-Clinic II

This course builds on all of the knowledge and skills introduced in DHCA1411 with the expectation that those foundational skills will be carried on throughout in this course as students now learn initial instrumentation skills with scalers and curettes. Skills culminate in a clinical process evaluation to include all learned skill from both Pre-clinic courses.

Credit Hours

4

Prerequisites

DHCA1411

DHCA1411 : Pre-Clinic I

This course introduces basic skills that will be utilized while providing dental hygiene care in a clinical setting. These skills include infection control, process of care, medical/dental histories, vital signs, extra oral and intraoral examination, examination and charting-hard and soft tissues, and ergonomics.

Credit Hours

4

Prerequisites

BIOL1431, BIOL1411, CHEM1411, BIOL1421, CHEM1421

DHCA2301 : Dental Pharmacology

Study of pharmacology as it affects the clinical practice of dental hygiene. Emphasis will be on the drugs and drug groups most commonly used in dentistry. Oral manifestations of drugs prescribed for the dental patients will be addressed.

Credit Hours

3

Prerequisites

MATH1320

DHCA2502 : Dental Hygiene II

The students in this course continue to practice dental hygiene skills while utilizing problem‑solving skills. Students recognize and utilize advanced instrumentation techniques, power-driven scaling and implant maintenance care. Students practice delivery of local anesthesia and nitrous oxide analgesia.

Credit Hours

5.5

Prerequisites

DHCA1411, DHCA1405

DHCA2503 : Dental Hygiene III

In this course, students will continue to practice principles learned in Pre-Clinic I and II. Students will recognize and manage the special needs patient.

Credit Hours

5

Prerequisites

DHCA2502

DHCA2505 : Dental Hygiene V

In this course, the student demonstrates and maintains clinical competency of dental hygiene skills. Students will execute a comprehensive care plan for an advanced periodontal case-type patient. Students will present a case study based on the aforementioned plan. Students will study future trends and technological advances in dentistry along with dental specialties.

Credit Hours

5.5

Prerequisites

DHCA2604

DHCA2604 : Dental Hygiene IV

In this course, the student continues to refine clinical skills and techniques. The student will critically evaluate research articles and write specific components of a research project.

Credit Hours

6

Prerequisites

DHCA2503