Dental Hygiene

AAS-T

Visit the Dental Hygiene Website

2009-2010 Application Procedure

The Dental Hygiene Program is an American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation accredited seven-quarter full-time program offering an associate of applied science transfer degree. The program prepares individuals for entry into dental hygiene and for the Dental Hygiene National Board Exam given by the American Dental Association as well as all parts of the Western Regional Examining Board. As a dental hygienist and licensed oral health professional, you become an integral part of the dental team to provide patient care. The range of services performed by hygienists varies from state to state and may include cleaning and polishing teeth, taking and developing x-rays, administering local anesthetics, placing and contouring dental fillings, educating patients about oral hygiene, and providing additional preventive dental care. Special Note: The educational environment contains multiple latex products and exposure to potential blood borne pathogens and that all treatment conforms to current infection control standards as designated by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the United States Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) . . . Opportunities for part-time work and flexible schedules are common and salaries are high, making dental hygiene an exceptional career choice.

Career Opportunities

In addition to treating patients directly, dental hygienists may also work as educators, researchers, administrators, and in business. Clinical dental hygienists may work in a variety of health care settings such as private dental offices, schools, public health clinics, hospitals, managed care organizations, correctional institutions, and nursing homes or in a corporate environment. In addition to the clinical role, dental hygienists may also work in an administrative capacity in any of the above locations.

How to Get Started

  • Complete the Standard Procedure for Admission to the College
  • After matriculation by Admissions, contact the advisor, William Spence, (206) 587-4188 or email him at WSpence@sccd.ctc.edu for an appointment/interview to evaluate test scores and for counseling assistance to determine your eligibility to enter the program. Bring copies of your high school and any college transcripts, test results, and/or Transfer of Credit form with you to your interview.
  • Complete the Dental Hygiene Program Application. Make sure you have followed the application process exactly. Once you have read the application, call our advisor, William Spence at 206-587-4188 or email him at WSpence@sccd.ctc.edu to make an appointment for information.
  • Admissions criteria include completing prerequisite courses and participating in an interview process. It is recommended that student with minimal or no computer skills also take an introductory course in the use of microcomputers.
  • Students are accepted into the program each fall after successfully completing program prerequisites (with a 2.5 GPA or higher in each class), the program application procedures and participating in the student selection/interview process. Twenty students will be selected to start the program each fall quarter.
  • In accordance with health facility affiliation agreements, students enrolled in clinical courses are required to complete a Request for Criminal History form. All information will be kept confidential. Students should be aware that certain convictions may prevent clinical placement and employment and that completion of this program does not guarantee certification, licensing or employment.
  • Satisfactory physical and immunization records must be on file in the division office prior to the first day of clinical.
  • All science and math classes must be taken within the last Five (5) years. Please refer to the application packet for the 5 year limit worksheet.

Applicants having previously earned credits in science/general education courses must apply for Credit by Direct Transfer in the Admissions Office, room BE 1107. This is the responsibility of the applicant. Applicants are also responsible for submitting all prerequisite and/or supporting class grades to the department office.

Program Goals

The dental hygiene program will:

  1. Assure access to dental hygiene educational opportunities specifically targeted to underrepresented minorities, ethnic and cultural groups, immigrants and other non-traditional students of dental hygiene and for transition to higher level of preparation for career mobility.
  2. Graduate students from a program of dental hygiene which meets current standards of patient care, applied research, and community service.
  3. In the clinical settings, to include and ensure service to diverse and underrepresented populations including ethnic and racial minorities, patients with special needs, and groups with limited access to oral health care.
  4. Demonstrate evidenced-based decision making in all aspects of the program by applying research to the selection of educational methodology, pedagogy, scientific content, and patient care treatment and management.
  5. Develop and implement a financial plan that sustains the financial health of the dental hygiene program and is aligned with the dental hygiene program’s mission and strategic direction.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate of the SCCC Dental Hygiene Program is able to:

  1. Qualify for all national and regional examinations required to obtain licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) in the State of Washington.
  2. Utilize the highest standard of the dental hygiene process of care in the treatment and management of patients in all aspects of dental hygiene practice and expanded duties as allowed by Washington State practice act.
  3. Value diversity, sensitivity in treatment, and interpersonal communication skills utilized as a provider in the delivery of culturally competent care to diverse population groups.
  4. Provide competent dental hygiene providers of care for the child, adolescent, adult, geriatric and medically compromised patients utilizing the dental hygiene process of care which includes:
    • The systematic collection and analysis of the data to identify patient needs and oral health problems;
    • The establishment of realistic goals and treatment strategies to facilitate optimal oral health;
    • Provision of treatment as identified in the assessment and planning phase;
    • Measurement of the extent to which goals identified in the treatment plan were achieved.
  5. Use evidenced-based practice and a patient-centered care philosophy in all aspects of dental hygiene practice.
  6. Assess, plan, implement and evaluate community-based oral health programs including, health promotion and disease prevention activities.
  7. Demonstrate appropriate life support measures for medical emergencies that may be encountered in dental hygiene practice.
  8. Evaluate current scientific literature for evidenced-based clinical applications.
  9. Use problem solving strategies related to comprehensive patient care and management of patients.
  10. Comply with OSHA, WISHA, and HIPAA Regulations.

Information Sessions

Each quarter an information session is held at the Seattle Central Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic located at 2120 S. Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98144. Directions to SVI

Financial Aid

Inquires regarding financial aid must be directed to the Financial Aid Office. Call 206-587-3844 or visit the website at http://www.seattlecentral.edu/finaid.

Curriculum

PrerequisitesCr
BIOL&241 * HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY 1 5
(Formerly ANP 213 ? Anatomy & Physiology I) Lecture and lab exercises cover fundamental principles and establish a basis for advanced study of anatomy and physiology and clinically related subjects in the paramedical fields.
BIOL&242 * HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2 5
(Formerly ANP 214 ? Anatomy & Physiology II) Continuation of BIOL& 241.
BIOL&260 MICROBIOLOGY 5
(Formerly BIO 280) History and methods of microbiology: microbial classification, metabolism, culture requirements, molecular genetics, antimicrobial methods, immunology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis. Lab included.
CHEM&121 OR INTRO TO CHEMISTRY 5
(Formerly CHE 101 ? Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry) Fundamental inorganic chemistry, including bonding, stoichiometry, gas laws, and acid/base topics. Of particular interest to Health Science and Biotechnology students. Lab included.
1 year of high school chemistry in the last 5 yrs
CHEM&122 INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC CHEMISTRY 5
(Formerly CHE 102) Continuation of organic chemistry and introduction to biochemistry. Lab included.
ENGL&101 ENGLISH COMPOSITION 5
(Formerly ENG 101) Intro to the writing process. Writing assignments focus on non-fiction prose, with subject matter drawn from firsthand experience and observation.
ENGL&102 COMPOSITION II 5
(Formerly ENG 102) Continuation of the composition sequence with further instruction and practice in the writing process, concentrating on critical reading and writing techniques needed for the preparation and completion of documented essays.
HUM 105 INTERCULTURE COMMUNICATION 5
Interdisciplinary focus on the role of languages and culture in effective intercultural communication including values, patterns, history, and attitudes that create and sustain cultures. Emphasis on skills and empathy gained from the study of diverse cultures through literature, theory and guest lecturers.
MATH&107 MATH IN SOCIETY 5
(Formerly MAT 107 ? Math for Liberal Arts) Primarily for liberal arts majors. Designed to enhance mathematics literacy. Instructors choose college-level topics centered around a theme such as Environmental Math, History of Math, or General Topics in Math. Fulfills QSR requirement for A.A. degree. Minimum 2.0 required to meet Intermediate Algebra proficiency and QSR.
NTR 150 HUMAN NUTRITION 5
Intro to nutrition, emphasizing relationship of nutrition to growth, development, health, physical and mental functioning. Examination of sources, functions, interrelationships and human requirements of nutrients.
PSYC&100 GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY 5
(Formerly PSY 110) Intro to the scientific study of human behavior, including learning and thinking, development, perception, motivation, emotion, personality and individual differences, social and abnormal behavior, and research methods.
SOC& 101 INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY 5
(Formerly SOC 110 ? Survey of Sociology) Covers human social interaction with emphasis on group aspects of human behavior. Includes culture, socialization, family, education, urbanization, gender roles, social class, deviance, race, sexuality, demography and social change.
1'st QuarterCr
DHY 100 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE I 4
Examines the theory and scientific principles underlying the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures in dental hygiene. Focuses on the scope of practice in Washington State, legal and ethical principles that govern the profession, and professionalism. Learn effective communication, infection control, instrumentation, vital signs assessment, screening examinations, documentation and use of computers.
DHY 101 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE I 3
First in a series of supervised clinical and pre-clinical experiences involving the assessment, planning and implementation of patient care and clinical dental hygiene.
DHY 102 HEALTH PROMOTION 2
Explores the process of health-related behavioral change through planned interventions in patient education and health promotion. Emphasizes theories of change, the effect of cultural norms and values in client-provider interaction, and communication skills to assess the patient's perceptions, needs and motivation to change.
DHY 103 DENTAL RADIOLOGY I 4
Study radiation hygiene and the fundamentals of radiology relevant to dentistry. Includes demos and practice in exposing, processing, and interpreting intra-oral radiographs. Covers principles and rules for patient and operator safety.
DHY 110 HEAD AND NECK ANATOMY 2
Study the anatomy and function of the head and neck. Learn the location, characteristics and function of the hard and soft tissues of the head, neck and oral cavity, including all anatomic features, the circulatory system, muscular system, cranial nerves and teeth.
DHY 112 DENTAL ANATOMY AND MORPHOLOGY 3
DHY 117 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1
Intro to the role of the dental team in the treatment of medical emergencies, prevention of medical emergencies, patient assessment, stress minimization, emergency drugs and equipment. Participate in class simulations of emergency treatment.
2'nd QuarterCr
DHY 104 PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY 2
Study dental deposits, dental diseases, causes and prevention including the relationship between plaque and oral disease processes, dental caries and gingivitis. Includes use and methods of researching professional literature, and using oral health prevention measures such as patient education, self-care, fluoride and physiotherapies.
DHY 105 ORAL BIOLOGY 2
Study oral histology, including the microscopic structures and organization of tissues of the teeth, the embryologic development of the primary and secondary dentitions, and the development of the oral cavity. Covers general pathology, including the mechanisms and characteristics of disease and disease process.
DHY 108 PERIODONTOLOGY I 2
Learn the periodontal structures of the mouth and periodontal instrumentation, including types of instruments, names, set-ups, and their proper application to periodontal therapy and treatment. Covers techniques for providing periodontal therapy, using adjunctive periodontal therapeutic agents, patient selection, treatment and post-treatment evaluation.
DHY 109 HUMAN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 3
The study of human pathology includes the etiology, predisposing factors, mechanisms of disease, and characteristics of the disease process in each body system. Greater emphasis will be placed on specific disease entities that are most commonly seen in the clinical dental hygiene setting or that may influence an individual's dental care.
DHY 113 DENTAL RADIOLOGY II 3
Continue study of radiation hygiene and radiology relevant to dentistry. Includes laboratory demos and practice in exposing, processing, and interpreting intra-oral radiographs and extra-oral techniques.
DHY 114 RESTORATIVE PRACTICE AND MATERIALS I 3
First of 6-course sequence in clinical restorative dentistry. Focuses on the chemical, physical and mechanical properties of dental materials commonly used by hygienists, and on their manipulation. Learn to place restorations into prepared cavities.
DHY 120 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE II 2
Examines the theory and scientific principles underlying the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures in dental hygiene. Focuses on the initial assessment of the patient, charting, indices, disease assessment, treatment planning and assessing special cases involving abuse and neglect, and use of computers.
DHY 121 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE II 4
Second in a series of 7 courses. Continue learning assessment and evaluation of the patient, planning and implementing dental hygiene care, and instrument techniques.
3'rd QuarterCr
DHY 107 PHARMACOLOGY 3
Learn the general pharmacological and therapeutic actions of drugs with emphasis on those used in dentistry. Includes dosage, routes of administration, drug interactions, drug effects on the oral cavity, indications, contra-indications, and factors in patient treatment planning.
DHY 118 PAIN CONTROL ANESTHESIA FOR DENTAL HYGIENISTS 4
Covers theory and practice of pain control in dental hygiene and restorative dentistry, including nitrous oxide administration, topical anesthesia, and nerve block, field and infiltration as local anesthesia applications.
DHY 119 RESTORATIVE PRACTICE AND MATERIALS II 3
Second of 6-course sequence in clinical restorative dentistry. Deepen learning of chemical, physical and mechanical properties of dental materials, their manipulation, and placing restorations into prepared cavities.
DHY 122 ORAL PATHOLOGY 2
Study lesions, pathologies, and abnormal conditions of the head, neck and oral cavity.
DHY 130 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE III 2
Examines the scientific principles the scientific principles underlying the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures. Focuses on the selection of detection instruments and scaling instruments, selection and u se of ultrasonic instruments, use and application of desensitization agents, custom trays, margination, area-specific curets, periodontal files, Nabors probe, tooth whitening, and principles of risk assessment in the development of individualized treatment plans for clinic patients, presentation of these plans, and written case documentation.
DHY 131 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE III 4
Third in a series of supervised clinical experiences with patient care involving assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures.
4'th QuarterCr
DHY 200 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE IV 2
Fourth in a series focusing on the scientific principles underlying the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures. Emphasizes biochemistry of food, nutritional counseling in dental hygiene practice, and personal, professional, and community issues related to HIV/AIDS.
DHY 201 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE IV 8
Fourth in a series of supervised clinical experiences with patient care involving the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures.
DHY 222 COMMUNITY HEALTH I 1
First of 3 courses in public and community health approaches to the prevention and management of dental and oral health needs. Emphasizes identification of community dental health programs with experience in schools, nursing homes, community centers and hospitals.
DHY 233 RESTORATIVE PRACTICE AND MATERIALS III 2
Third laboratory course in restorative dental practice and materials focusing on correct placement of dental restorations on mannequins in the laboratory and patients in the clinic. Develop manipulative and carving skills in placement of amalgam and composite restorations as allowed by Washington law.
5'th QuarterCr
DHY 208 PERIODONTOLOGY II 2
Deepen study of periodontal diseases, including prevention, cause, prevalence, recognition, patient education, advanced treatment planning, and appropriate treatment. Apply prevention and treatment techniques to patients with moderate to severe disease.
DHY 220 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE V 3
Fifth in a series focusing on the scientific principles underlying the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures. Emphasizes higher level concepts needed for successful board certification and national examinations.
DHY 221 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE V 8
Fifth in a series of supervised clinical experiences with patient care involving the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures. Provide care to a broader range of clients in clinic. Emphasizes refining and integrating previously learned concepts and skills into an effective pattern of comprehensive case management. Demonstrate clinical judgment and decision making based on scientific evidence and treatment outcomes.
DHY 223 COMMUNITY HEALTH II 2
Study community dental health program planning and development focusing on prevention of dental disease and practice through learning projects. Develop a community outreach program and execute it.
DHY 234 RESTORATIVE PRACTICE AND MATERIALS IV 2
Fourth laboratory course in restorative dental practice and materials focusing on correct placement of dental restorations on mannequins and patients. Develop manipulative and carving skills in placement of amalgam and composite restorations as allowed by Washington state law.
6'th QuarterCr
DHY 215 SELECTIVE POPULATIONS 2
Study the specific care modifications required to effectively deliver oral health services to patients with special mental, emotional and physical challenges or medical problems such as salivary dysfunctions, neurological impairments, immune system dysfunctions, cancer treatments and surgery.
DHY 224 COMMUNITY HEALTH III 2
Covers community dental health program planning and development focusing on prevention of disease. Integrates concepts and techniques regarding the selection and delivery of oral health services and education to underserved populations. Emphasizes program implementation and evaluation.
DHY 230 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE VI 3
Explores the scientific principles underlying the clinical practice of dental hygiene. Develop high level skills to enhance patient assessment, management, and treatment.
DHY 231 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE VI 8
Sixth in a series of supervised clinical experiences with patient care involving the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures.
DHY 235 RESTORATIVE PRACTICE AND MATERIALS V 2
Fifth laboratory course in restorative dental practice and materials focusing on correct placement of dental restorations on mannequins and patients. Develop manipulative and carving skills in placement of amalgam and composite restorations as allowed by Washington state law.
7'th QuarterCr
DHY 203 ETHICS AND JURISPRUDENCE 2
Focuses on the ethical, legal and regulatory issues facing a dental hygienist in a private dental office, community agency or independent practice. Through simulated cases, consider professional traits, theories of moral development, ethical dilemmas and principles, the Washington state dental practice act, the hygienist-patient relationship and risk management in dental hygiene practice.
DHY 217 COMMUNITY ROTATIONS 2
Clinic rotations to existing community dental clinics servicing low-income patients, non-English speaking clients, pedodontic and adolescent patients, and special needs populations.
DHY 236 RESTORATIVE PRACTICE AND MATERIALS VI 2
Final laboratory course in restorative dental practice and materials focusing on correct placement of dental restorations on mannequins and patients. Develop manipulative and carving skills in placement of amalgam and composite restorations as allowed by Washington state law.
DHY 238 PROFESSIONAL ISSUES 1
Lecture and discussion regarding the practice of dental hygiene including resume development, interviewing techniques, patient scheduling systems, employment contracts, dental staff relations, understanding the business aspects of a dental practice, and development of a personal philosophy of practice.
DHY 240 FUNDAMENTALS OF DENTAL HYGIENE VII 2
Focuses on the scientific principles underlying clinical practice dental hygiene. Focuses on inter-professional relations, team building, sharing new knowledge and the responsibilities of a practicing dental hygienist for professional development and life-long learning.
DHY 241 CLINICAL DENTAL HYGIENE VII 8
Seventh in a series of supervised clinical experiences with patient care involving the assessment, planning and implementation of clinical procedures in dental hygiene.

* Both BIOL&241 and BIOL&242 must be taken at the same college.

Total Prerequisite Credits = 60
Total Program Credits = 122

Program Costs

Tuition and fees are set by the Washington State Legislature and are subject to change. The Seattle Community College District reserves the right to change any of its fees or charges without notice. Rates listed here are for the 2007-2008 academic year

For Further Information:

Dental Hygiene Program
Health and Human Services
Seattle Central Community College
1701 Broadway, Room 2BE3204
Seattle, WA 98122
PHONE: (206) 587-4186
TTY: (206) 344-4347
FAX: (206) 587-6337

Program Contact:
 scccdh@sccd.ctc.edu 206.587.4186

Dental Hygiene Clinic is located at SVI:

Directions to SVI
2120 S. Jackson Street, Room 407
Seattle, WA 98144
Patient Appointment Line:
PHONE: (206) 344-4423
FAX: (206) 516-3196