DHYG 121 Preventive Dentistry

2 credits

This course introduces students to basic principles of dental diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. Students will learn concepts of preventive oral health, patient oral self-care, and ergonomics for the dental practitioner.

Prerequisites: DHYG 111, DHYG 112, DHYG 113, DHYG 114, DHYG 115, DHYG 116, DHYG 118, DHYG 119.

Corequisites: DHYG 122, DHYG 123, DHYG 124, DHYG 127, DHYG 137, DHYG 139.

Quarters Offered: Winter

Student Outcomes/Competencies:
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Explain the dental caries process and its treatment and prevention strategies
Describe the three types of fluorides, their applications, and their relation to the caries process
List and explain anti-microbial medicaments in the treatment of dental disease
Describe the process of dentinal hypersensitivity and its treatment options
Explain the importance of dental sealants and their application procedure for the prevention of dental caries
Describe the processes, uses, and potential side effects of tooth whitening and coronal polish
Identify the various intraoral stains, their etiology, and methods of removal
Describe the basic principles of occlusion and their relationship to temporomandibular dysfunction
Assess the patient’s individual needs and make appropriate recommendations for post-operative care for healing of the periodontal tissues
Identify the requirements of special needs patients in the use of dental self- care aids
Describe, properly utilize, and list the limitations of oral hygiene aids, such as tooth brush and floss
Make appropriate recommendations to the dental patient regarding oral hygiene aids and medicaments after identifying the patient’s oral conditions
Explain the importance of ergonomics for the dental practitioner and use the neutral position to aid in attaining career longevity