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Description

The Dental Hygiene program will prepare the student to assume a position as a dental hygienist capable of providing preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services utilizing the Dental Hygiene Process. In all roles and practice settings, the dental hygienist works with the client and community using a problem-solving framework; basing all decisions, judgments and interventions on current dental hygiene research and theory. The program will prepare the graduate for the legal and ethical responsibilities of a dental hygienist and with a basic understanding of business practices related to self-employment.

This program consists of five semesters delivered over, two years. The graduate of this program is entitled to write the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board Examination. Upon successful completion of this examination and the Georgian College Dental Hygiene Program, the graduate will be eligible for registration to practice in the province of Ontario as specified in the regulations of the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Dental Hygiene Act. Registration with the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario is a legal requirement to practice and is subject to the regulations and restrictions established by this governing body.

External Recognition

Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada.

Career Opportunities

As a dental hygienist, the graduate may work independently, interdependently and collaboratively with health professionals in a variety of practice settings, including private dental practices, community clinics, public health programs, institutions and long term care facilities. The graduate may choose to work as an employee or be self-employed.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• work effectively as a member of a team to provide oral health services;
• make decisions regarding dental hygiene services that reflect critical thinking and problem solving;
• communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken, and visual form with clients and other professionals regarding oral health issues;
• adapt to change, recognize the need to maintain and renew knowledge and skills, and respond appropriately to societal challenges arising in community, family and working life situations;
• ensure client and personal safety in the practice environment;
• utilize the dental hygiene process to provide oral health services and programs for individuals and communities;
• practice in a professional and competent manner, consistent with relevant legislation and current practice standards;
• manage client and practice information according to relevant legislation, codes of ethics, practice standards, and business;
• recognize a well managed practice environment within health care settings and the community;
• use strategies for systematic inquiry to justify and/or revise oral health services;
• participate actively within the dental hygiene profession.

Program Progression

Sem 1 - Fall 2011

Sem 2 - Winter 2011

Sem 3 - Fall 2011

Sem 4 - Winter 2012

Sem 5 - Summer 2012

Articulation Agreements

A number of articulation agreements have been negotiated with universities and other institutions across Canada, North America and internationally. These agreements are assessed, revised and updated on a regular basis. Please contact the program co-ordinator for specific details if you are interested in pursuing such an option. Additional information can be found on our website at http://www.georgianc.on.ca/articulations/.

Admission Requirements

Applicants following the OSS curriculum must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD - 30 credits) or equivalent. Applicants following the OSS curriculum must also have Grade 12 English (C) or (U) (ENG 4C, ENG 4U), Grade 12 Chemistry College or Grade 11 or 12 University Chemistry (SCH 4C, SCH 4U, SCH 3U), any Grade 11 or 12 College or University Biology (SB13C, SB13U or SB14U).

Computer skills and knowledge of basic math calculations are highly recommended.

In addition to these requirements, applicants must also provide proof of a current First Aid and C.P.R. Level "C" or "HCP" certification, prior to the commencement of preclinical courses in Semester 1. Annual CPR re-certification is mandatory.

Additional Information

Applicants are advised that the clinical requirements of the program and future employment require good vision (with or without corrective lenses) and visual perception; ability to sit for prolonged periods of time and manipulate small instruments with repetitive motion. Applicants with back/neck/wrist or visual problems should discuss individual concerns with the program Co-ordinator. Applicants must also be comfortable speaking in front of individuals and groups. Certain clinical placements will require students to have updated flu shots, TB testing and Hepatitis B vaccination as well as a Police Record Check (including Vulnerable Sector Screening"/ and a check of the Pardoned Sex Offender Data Base). It is the student's responsibility to ensure he or she is eligible to participate in clinical placements. The College assumes no responsibility for these matters and students should be aware that tuition will not be refunded in the event that access to a placement is denied.

Registration with the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario (CDHO) is mandatory to practice as a dental hygienist in Ontario.

Note: A history of criminal offences or charges of professional misconduct in another jurisdiction or another profession may interfere with your ability to become registered in Ontario. Should either situation apply, you are recommended to seek clarification with the CDHO before applying to the dental hygiene program at Georgian College.

Applicants who are 19 years of age or over by the first day of classes, and who lack the academic entrance qualifications, may be considered for entrance to an appropriate post-secondary diploma or certificate program as mature applicants. Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis and acceptance will be determined by counselling, Communication Placement Assessment (CPA), previous post-secondary education and evaluation of experience. Some programs also have specific prerequisite requirements that must be met prior to admission. Mature applicants must meet all program specific prerequisites. Those applying as mature students and having no documentation of Grade 12 education must supply, if required, proof of age, such as a copy of an official birth certificate or driver's licence. Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 of the Academic Calendar for further details.

Do you need Academic Upgrading?

You can take Academic Upgrading courses at Georgian College, please visit www.georgianc.on.ca/coned09/areas-of-interest/college-and-career-preparation.

Selection Process

Applicants are required to complete the Health Occupations Aptitude Examination as part of the selection process. This test measures reading comprehension, spelling, natural sciences and verbal/non-verbal reasoning. Scores from this test as well as academic grades are used to determine acceptance. Applicants will be assessed and ranked based on the results of their testing and their academic background.

Graduation Requirements

22 Mandatory Courses

2 Communications Courses

3 General Education Courses

Graduation Eligibility

To graduate from this program, the passing weighted average for promotion through each semester, from year to year and to graduate is 60%. Additionally, a student must attain a minimum of 50% or a letter grade of P (Pass) or S (Satisfactory) in each course in each semester.

General Education Courses

To be chosen from the College list of general education courses. It is recommended that students take Introductory Psychology during Year 1 as well as a Sociology course at some point during the program.

Mandatory

BIOL1001 Anatomy and Physiology - Introductory Concepts

BIOL1002 Anatomy and Physiology - Advanced Concepts

DENT1013 General and Oral Microbiology

DENT1014 Dental and Orofacial Anatomy

DENT1015 Preclinical Dental Hygiene

DENT1016 Dental Hygiene Process

DENT1017 Dental Practice Administration

DENT1018 Applied Oral Health Promotion Strategies

DENT1019 Oral Histology and Embryology

DENT1020 Dental Radiography

DENT1021 Medical and Pharmacological Considerations for Dental Hygiene Care

DENT1022 Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist

DENT1023 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Intermediate

DENT2000 General and Oral Pathology

DENT2001 Professional Issues in Dental Hygiene

DENT2002 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Advanced

DENT2003 Oral Care for Unique Populations

DENT2004 Dental Hygiene Clinical Consolidation

DENT2005 Role of the Dental Hygienist in Orthodontics and Paedodontics

DENT2006 Introduction to Research Methods in Health Sciences

DENT2007 Health Promotion and Community Dental Health

DENT2008 Applied Clinical Theory

The descriptions that follow provide brief outlines of the courses. Please note that some courses have prerequisite and/or corequisite requirements not shown here, that need to be met in order to enroll in the course. You will be advised of any requisite requirements during the registration process, or you can contact the academic area for further details.

Communications

COMM1000 College Communications

COMM1001 Communications at Work

COMM1004 World Links: Wired Communications

COMM1006 Professional Writing

COMM1007 Oral Presentations

COMM1012 Visual Analysis in Communication

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

BIOL1001 Anatomy and Physiology - Introductory Concepts 42.0 Hours

This course is the study of normal anatomy and physiology beginning with an orientation to the body and continuing through the cell, and four of the major systems: the integumentary system, the musculoskeletal system, the nervous system and the endocrine system. An introduction to microbiology is included. Three unifying themes, the interrelationships of body organ systems, homeostasis, and the complementarities of structure and function, will provide the basis of understanding the workings of the human body.

BIOL1002 Anatomy and Physiology - Advanced Concepts 42.0 Hours

This course is the study of normal anatomy and physiology of the human body. It is a study of the following major body systems: circulatory system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, urinary system and reproductive system. Three unifying themes, the interrelationships of body organ systems, homeostasis, and the complementarities of structure and function, will provide the basis of understanding the workings of the human body.

COMM1000 College Communications 42.0 Hours

Effective communication skills are essential for success in college and career. This entry-level course promotes development of college level skills including the use of current communications technology. Students focus on researching, writing, and editing, with an emphasis on essays. They analyze and evaluate information, incorporate writing conventions, edit and proofread material, and present it orally.

COMM1001 Communications At Work 42.0 Hours

Students develop their communication skills for the workplace. Using available technology, they research, write and edit work- related correspondence and short reports, individually and collaboratively. With audio-visual support, they prepare and deliver professional presentations that have vocational emphasis. In addition, students complete other communication tasks specific to their vocational areas.

COMM1004 World Links: Wired Communications 42.0 Hours

Computers are revolutionizing our ability to communicate for the purposes of learning and conducting business. This project-based course develops skills to communicate effectively using electronic media. Hands-on experience is combined with an examination of the characteristics of computer-mediated communication, its role in society, and its use in the workplace. Prior experience with basic Internet functions and Web page construction is strongly recommended. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.

COMM1006 Professional Writing 42.0 Hours

Professional writing skills are required in all service, technical, and business environments. In this advanced course, students develop researching, planning, designing, and writing skills used to prepare workplace materials. Individually and collaboratively, they learn and practise the processes involved in producing such information as policies and procedures, written instructions, training materials, and online help. Experience with word processing is expected. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.

COMM1007 Oral Presentations 42.0 Hours

This advanced communications course is designed to further students' proficiency in verbal communication in both individual and group presentations. Students develop their delivery and presentation skills while working on a range of oral communication activities that start with short, informal introductions and comments and work up to more researched, persuasive, multimedia presentations. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.

COMM1012 Visual Analysis in Communication 42.0 Hours

In the modern visual world, the way messages are viewed and disseminated has changed dramatically with technological advances. In this course, students develop their theoretical and practical communication skills at an advanced level by investigating the power of visual imagery. Students focus on interpreting, analyzing, and critiquing a broad range of visuals in terms of intention and effectiveness. In addition, students complete research projects including presentations.

DENT1013 General and Oral Microbiology 42.0 Hours

The student will study groupings of micro-organisms starting with the general characteristics of morphology and growth. The role these micro-organisms play in the initiation and progression of human diseases will be considered as well as modes of disease transmission, and the necessity for infection control procedures within dental settings. The student will be introduced to the microbiology of the oral cavity and its relationship to common dental/oral diseases.

DENT1014 Dental and Orofacial Anatomy 42.0 Hours

This course discusses the oral anatomic landmarks and establishes an understanding of the relationship between structure and function. The student will learn detailed anatomy of the teeth and the relationships between the structures in and around the mouth, including the skull, muscles of mastication, blood vessels, nerves, salivary glands and oral soft tissues.

DENT1015 Preclinical Dental Hygiene 84.0 Hours

This is an introductory course involving the theory and practice of specific dental hygiene skills. Theory will include study of the fundamentals of positioning, instrumentation, instrument sharpening, coronal polishing, application of topical fluoride, personal safety, infection control procedures, and response to basic medical emergencies. Students will apply these concepts during preclinical lab sessions. In addition, students will develop an awareness of WHMIS and equipment maintenance. Additional Information: Students must have current CPR and First Aid Certifications and a completed immunization record on file with the College to be scheduled in clinic.

DENT1016 Dental Hygiene Process 126.0 Hours

This course introduces the student to direct client care. The Dental Hygiene Process, including assessment skills, treatment planning and evaluation of treatment outcomes will be discussed. Additional clinical skills will be taught such as pit & fissure sealants, alginate impressions, fabrication of study models, mouthguards, placement and removal of rubber dam. Student will first apply these concepts during preclinical lab sessions followed by an introduction to client care. Various dental specialties and common dental materials will be introduced through lectures and practical demonstrations. Additional Information: Students must have current CPR and First Aid Certifications and a completed immunization record on file with the College to be scheduled in clinic.

DENT1017 Dental Practice Administration 42.0 Hours

In this course, the student will study the principles and practices necessary to operate a dental/dental hygiene practice. The student will learn how to complete third party insurance predeterminations and claim forms, establish and use an expense and disbursement account system and the operation of a computerized dental office management system.

DENT1018 Applied Oral Health Promotion Strategies 42.0 Hours

This course will introduce theory to familiarize the student with prevention of oral diseases, halitosis and trauma by promoting behavioural change in individuals. Emphasis is placed on self care methods for oral plaque control including oral/dental aids, toothpastes and mouthrinses, diet and client motivation. The use of topical fluoride as an anticaries agent and adoption of oral safety measures will be examined. Students will use this knowledge to create instructional materials.

DENT1019 Oral Histology and Embryology 42.0 Hours

In this course the student studies normal development of the oral cavity and facial complex and the influence of diseases on normal development. A histological background is provided for the development of bone, cartilage, teeth, oral mucosa, tongue, temporomandibular joint, the periodontium, and salivary glands. This knowledge provides the foundation for further study of developmental disturbances and histological changes in oral diseases.

DENT1020 Dental Radiography 42.0 Hours

This course prepares the student to take and process acceptable dental radiographs. The student learns the basic principles of radiation production and safe operation of the dental x-ray unit. Additional instruction will be provided in recognizing and solving problem situations, client management and identification of normal anatomic landmarks and developmental disturbances. Students will expose dental radiographs using bisecting angle and paralleling techniques

DENT1021 Medical and Pharmacological Considerations for Dental Hygiene Care 42.0 Hours

This course examines the use of pharmaceuticals to treat general and oral health problems. The study of drugs used in dental treatment will include consideration for their origin, physical and chemical properties, modes of administration and effects upon the body systems. In addition, the impact of client medication (prescribed or over-the-counter) on oral structures treatment will be discussed. Pain management and management of various medical conditions will also be examined.

DENT1022 Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist 42.0 Hours

In this course the student will study the histology, physiology, and pathology of those tissues that surround and support the teeth. The student will learn about the disease process affecting the periodontal tissues and the fields of preventive and therapeutic periodontics with emphasis on the clinical role of the dental hygienist.

DENT1023 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Intermediate 84.0 Hours

The student will continue to provide clinical services using the Dental Hygiene Process for a variety of dental hygiene clients. Students will expand their client base to include periodontal clients. Advanced instrumentation skills will be taught. The role of the dental hygienist as a health educator will be explored. Students will be expected to assume more responsibility for decision-making regarding client care and personal and professional growth. Additional Information: Students must have current CPR and First Aid Certifications and a completed immunization record on file with the College to be scheduled in client care clinics.

DENT2000 General and Oral Pathology 42.0 Hours

Principles of general pathology in relation to the diseases of the teeth, soft tissues, and supporting structures of the oral cavity are discussed including inflammation, regeneration and repair, immune system disorders, heredity and neoplasia. The emphasis in oral pathology is on the etiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment of oral diseases and lesions. The role of the dental hygienist in identification, treatment, and referral will be considered.

DENT2001 Professional Issues in Dental Hygiene 42.0 Hours

This course will explore the profession of Dental Hygiene including regulations, ethical decision-making and conflict resolution. The role of the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario will be reviewed in detail with emphasis placed on the Standards of Practice and Quality Assurance program. Various career options and employment relationships will be discussed. Students will develop a professional portfolio that fulfills the regulatory requirements of the CDHO.

DENT2002 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Advanced 84.0 Hours

The student will continue to provide clinical services for a variety of dental clients. Students will also work in a collaborative relationship with dental assistant students. In addition, students will experience the dental hygiene process in a non-traditional setting. Students will be expected to assume more responsibility for decision-making regarding client care and personal and professional growth. Additional Information: Students must have current CPR and First Aid Certifications and a completed immunization record on file with the College to be scheduled in client care clinics.

DENT2003 Oral Care for Unique Populations 56.0 Hours

This course will allow the student to gain better awareness and empathy for individuals who have cognitive, physical, psychological, sensory or emotional needs including how to recognize barriers to care and modify care to meet needs. Further consideration will be given to cultural issues that influence access to dental care. The unique needs of various ethnic/cultural groups and women will also be investigated.

DENT2004 Dental Hygiene Clinical Consolidation 168.0 Hours

The student will continue to provide dental hygiene services for clients in traditional and non-traditional settings. Emphasis will be placed on time management and consolidation of skills. Students will be expected to assume responsibility for decision- making regarding client care and personal and professional growth at the level expected by the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario for entry to practice. Additional Information: Students must have current CPR and First Aid Certifications and a completed immunization record on file with the College to be scheduled in client care clinics. In addition, some placement agencies may require police background checks and additional immunization (i.e. flu shot).

DENT2005 Role of the Dental Hygienist in Orthodontics and Paedodontics 42.0 Hours

This course provides knowledge of the specialties of orthodontics and paedodontics. During the study of orthodontics, the student will learn the theory of tooth movement, malocclusions and treatment while gaining practical lab experience with associated clinical skills. In paedodontics, issues related to development and care of the primary and mixed dentitions will be reviewed with emphasis on child management and teaching strategies.

DENT2006 Introduction to Research Methods in Health Sciences 42.0 Hours

In this course the student will learn basic research methods commonly used in health sciences. Data collection and analysis will be discussed and the student will be able to critically review scientific literature. Students will conduct a basic research project.

DENT2007 Health Promotion and Community Dental Health 42.0 Hours

In this course the student will discuss the role of the dental hygienist in health promotion and health related education activities for individuals and groups; the assessment of factors which affect oral health of populations and the development of policy in response to population needs; and the conditions which are conducive to good health for all. Teaching and learning principles will be reviewed and lesson/program planning will be introduced.

DENT2008 Applied Clinical Theory 42.0 Hours

This course will allow students to apply knowledge learned in previous semesters while expanding their understanding of client care and collaborative working relationships. Practical experiences within this course will assist students in their transition to direct client care. An emphasis is placed on effective communication with other health care professionals and clients and the use of clinical evidence to make decisions.

How To Apply

Last Update: July 28, 2011.