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An introduction to the basic fundamentals of the science of nutrition for the dental hygienist. Essentials of adequate dietary intake and nutritional balances and imbalances including total body health and dental care are discussed. Topics include the role of nutrients in the development and maintenance of hard and soft oral tissues, nutritional needs throughout the life cycle, and nutritional issues that may impact oral health. Special emphasis is placed on the application of dietary analysis and nutritional counseling as a preventive dental service.

A detailed study of the anatomy of primary and permanent dentitions. Other topics include tooth morphology, tooth eruption sequence, basic dental terminology and occlusion. This course is coordinated with hands on laboratory exercises that allow students to practice tooth identification and application of the visible anatomical landmarks of the oral cavity. The included laboratory sessions are coordinated with lectures to provide practical applications of dental anatomy.

A detailed study of the embryonic development of the hard and soft tissues of the face and oral cavity. This course includes the study of the anatomical structure of the head and neck with emphasis on the cranial nerves, muscles of mastication and facial expression, temporomandibular joint, vascular and lymphatic systems, tooth development and histology of dental tissues and supporting structures.

Provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the appropriate use of diagnostic imaging in a dental practice, including digital radiography, radiation biology and protection, quality assurance procedures, radiation physics, radiographic interpretation, radiographic landmarks, and ethics. Emphasis is placed on patient and operator protection and equipment function. Lectures and laboratory demonstrations are coordinated with laboratory practice on a manikin to develop mastery of digital dental radiographic techniques. Patients will be scheduled near the end of the term when students exhibit acceptable radiographic skills and basic principles of radiographic interpretation.

Methods of preventive oral hygiene education, including patient motivation, will be discussed. Lectures in nutrition will stress the importance of good eating habits in maintaining optimal general and dental health. Emphasis will be given to the essential role of the dental assistant in counseling the patient in these disciplines. (

Study of the composition and properties of materials used in dentistry. Lab sessions emphasize practice in manipulation of various materials.

An introduction to the composition and properties of dental materials with emphasis on materials currently utilized in dental and dental hygiene treatments. Lab sessions are coordinated with lectures to provide practice in manipulation of materials with emphasis on impression taking and preparation of study casts.

Designed to teach the dental assisting student clinical techniques. Includes information on sterilization and disinfection techniques, charting, and the use of dental equipment and instruments. Students are introduced to four-handed chairside assisting as it pertains to all types of dental procedures including oral evacuation, instrument transfer, tray set-ups, and completing dental clinical records. Emphasis is placed on the dental health team concept.

Development of working knowledge of office procedures to include communication and telephone techniques, appointment scheduling, and document management including HIPAA regulations. Other topics include fundamentals of financial systems, dental insurance, inventory control, and job search preparation.  Technology in the business office and the use of specialized office management software is highlighted.

Clinic sessions are coordinated with lectures in preclinical theory. Demonstration and practice of procedures in simulated clinical situations include maintaining office asepsis, instrument sterilization, 4-handed chairside assisting, patient interaction and comfort, health history management, preliminary oral inspection, and taking alginate impressions. Recording patient information in Dentrix is introduced. A classroom seminar for learning activities and group discussion is included. All students enrolled in ADED 191C will be charged a clinical surcharge per semester.