Dental Hygiene DEH.S.AAS
Associate of Applied Science - 69 Credit Hours
Division: Health Sciences
Department: Dental Health Sciences
Effective as of Fall 2017
A career as a dental hygienist offers a wide range of challenges and rewards. In the dental office, the dentist and the dental hygienist work together to meet the oral health needs of patients. Since each state has its own specific regulations regarding their responsibilities, the range of services performed by hygienists varies from state to state. One of the most enjoyable aspects of a career in dental hygiene is working with people. Personal fulfillment comes from providing a valuable health care service while establishing trusting relationships with patients. As a result of their education and clinical training in a highly skilled discipline, dental hygienists are respected as valued members of the oral health care team.
What is the program about?
Working as part of a dental team, dental hygienists treat patients needing non-surgical periodontal therapy and radiographs, apply preventive agents, provide intra- and extra-oral exams and oral hygiene instructions. Registered dental hygienists work in private dental offices, public health settings, and in higher education. The Dental Hygiene program is designed to be completed in five (5) semesters on a full-time basis when the student begins the technical portion of the program. The degree program consists of open enrollment courses (general education and division specific) and program specific courses with limited enrollment. The open enrollment courses may be taken prior to entry into the limited enrollment courses. To qualify for entry to limited enrollment courses, please see the Applicant Information packet located on the webpage. In order to be invited into the Dental Hygiene Program all students must have a GPA of 2.7 with an overall TEAS score of 60 and a score on the sciences portion of the test of 50. You have three opportunities to successfully take the TEAS. For any students applying under the Accelerated Admission for Academic Achievement (AAAA) you must have a GPA of 3.0 with an overall TEAS score of 65 and a science score of 55. A student may take the TEAS test two times for consideration. In addition, you must earn an or A or B in all required biology and chemistry courses. Complete CHE 1111/CHE 1151 (Introduction to Chemistry I) or provide proof of High School chemistry with a C or better within past 5 years to the Dental Health Sciences Department.
Program Outcomes
- Develop an understanding and appreciation for an inclusive society embracing diversity and equity in the delivery of oral health services.
- Demonstrate competence in the dental hygiene process of care including assessment, dental hygiene diagnosis, planning, implementation, evaluation, and documentation.
- Demonstrate professionalism in all aspects of dental hygiene care, including the ability to make ethical and evidence-based decisions.
- Embrace a professional commitment to continuing education and life-long learning.
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with patients, healthcare providers and the public regarding the significance of dental hygiene care and overall health.
Career Opportunities
Career options may vary according to state practice act restrictions. Dental hygienists have a variety of career opportunities in a wide range of employment settings, including private practice, hospitals, HMOs, community health programs, long-term care facilities, school systems, dental product research, marketing and sales, military bases, universities and research centers.
Transferability
Formal articulation agreements with other colleges and universities indicate how Sinclair programs and courses will transfer to other institutions.
Prerequisites
- ALH 1101 AND BIO 1141 AND DEH 1102 AND ENG 1101 AND MAT 1130
- or Approval of Department
- or OTM Mathematics Elective
Credentials
The graduate is eligible to sit for the Dental Hygiene National Board, the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment or similar state boards, and to apply for state licensing. Students are required by the Ohio State Dental Board to have a federal background check, and any convictions could possibly prevent a graduate from receiving licensure. Any questions or concerns should be directed to the Ohio State Dental Board.
Additional Information
Immunizations/Vaccinations must be submitted; TEAS score of 60 or higher;
Background Check when entering and graduating from program.
Distance Education Policy for Dental Health Sciences
Curriculum
Program Accreditation Information
The program in Dental Hygiene at Sinclair Community College is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of Approval (without reporting requirements). The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (800) 621-8099 or (312) 440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678.
