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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.

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:

• practise in a professional and competent manner within the defined scope of practice and consistent with current regulations and standards of practice.
• evaluate clients' oral health status using determinants of health and risk analysis to identify needs, justify treatment decisions and provide appropriate referrals to other health care professionals as required.
• design, implement and evaluate a range of primary, interceptive, therapeutic, preventative, and on-going oral health care services to meet the unique needs of clients.
• analyze oral health issues in need of advocacy, identify networks and promote actions that will support change and facilitate access to care.
• identify, select, implement and evaluate quality assurance standards and protocols which contribute to a safe and effective working environment.
• establish and maintain professional and interprofessional relationships which contribute to client care safety and positive health care outcomes.
• facilitate the development of specific oral health attitudes, knowledge, skills, and behaviours in clients by selecting and utilizing principles of teaching and learning.
• develop and present a model for a DH practice that addresses relevant business principles, current legislation and standards of practice;
• recognize and stress the importance of utilizing environmentally friendly products and supplies within the work environment.

Program Progression

UNDER REVIEW

Sem 1 - Fall 2011

Sem 2 - Winter 2012

Sem 3 - Summer 2012

Sem 4 - Winter 2013

Sem 5 - Summer 2013

Sem 6 - Fall 2013

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 www.georgianc.on.ca/articulations/.

Admission Requirements

OSS curriculum

:: OSSD or equivalent

:: 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).

Highly recommended

:: Computer skills and knowledge of basic math calculations

OR Academic and Career Entrance Certificate (ACE) program with:

:: Communications

:: Chemistry

:: Biology

OR Ontario High School Equivalency Certficate (GED)

:: meets English requirements, not sciences

OR mature applicant with standing in the required courses and/or mature student testing that meets the minimum standards for admission

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.

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.

 

Additional Information

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.

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.

Graduation Requirements

31 Mandatory Courses

2 Communications Courses

5 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

BIOL2008 Human Pathophysiology

BUSI3007 Business Principles for Regulated Health Professionals

DENT1013 General and Oral Microbiology

DENT1014 Dental and Orofacial Anatomy

DENT1016 Dental Hygiene Process

DENT1017 Dental Hygiene Practice Administration

DENT1018 Applied Oral Health Promotion Strategies

DENT1019 Oral Histology and Embryology

DENT1021 Medical and Pharmacological Considerations for Dental Hygiene Care DENT1022 Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist

DENT1044 Preclinical Dental Hygiene

DENT1045 Introduction to the Dental Hygiene Profession

DENT1046 Dental Radiography for the Dental Hygienist

DENT2000 Oral Pathology

DENT2001 Professional Practice & Jurisprudence

DENT2005 Role of the Dental Hygienist in Orthodontics

DENT2007 Health Promotion and Community Dental Health

DENT2008 Applied Clinical Theory

DENT2017 Clinical Dental Hygiene – Introduction

DENT2018 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Intermediate

DENT3005 Evidence Based Dental Hygiene Practice

DENT3006 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Advanced

DENT3007 Dental Hygiene Clinical Consolidation

HLTH1000 Health Care in Canada

HLTH1003 Preparation for Clinical Practice

HLTH2003 Diverse Populations and Health Beliefs

HLTH3000 Interprofessional Practice

HLTH3001 Health Policy and Advocacy

STAT2005 Introduction to Statistics and Research Methodology

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

COMM1001 Communications at Work

Plus one addition communications to be selected from College list

(Note: this is in addition to any mandatory communications listed for the program)

 

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.

BIOL2008 Human Pathophysiology 42.0 hours

This area will be an introduction to human disease and will focus on the fundamental principles of homeostatic mechanisms. The student will explore how alterations in homeostatic mechanisms will disrupt the human body. Mechanisms of disease will be studied by systems and will be examined for the effect that they produce on the structure and function of the body. Common diseases will be used to illustrate concepts.

BUSI3007 Business Principles for Regulated Health Professionals 42.0 hours

In today's economic reality, many health care professionals will find themselves either self-employed, or employed on a part-time basis or on a contract by a small business. Students

in this course will learn about their rights and responsibilities under various forms of employment. Students will also be exposed to the basic business concepts for establishing and operating a successful small business in their chosen health care field, and under the guidelines provided by the appropriate College and/or regulatory agency.

 

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.

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.

DENT1016 Dental Hygiene Process 126.0 Hours

In this course students will continue to apply the Dental Hygiene Process with emphasis on periodontal assessment skills, instrumentation skills, treatment planning and evaluation of treatment outcomes. Various dental specialties and common dental materials will be introduced through lectures and practical demonstrations. Students will protect the environment by responsible use of consumables and disposal of waste products including biohazardous wastes.

DENT1017 Dental Hygiene 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. An introduction to teaching and learning theories and learning plans for individualized instruction will be provided.

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.

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.

DENT1044 Preclinical Dental Hygiene 98.0 Hours

This is an introductory course integrating the theory and practice of specific dental hygiene skills; in particular assessment skills, positioning and infection control. Students will apply these concepts during preclinical and dental materials lab sessions. In addition, students will develop an awareness of WHMIS and equipment maintenance and the importance of protecting the environment by responsible use of consumables and safe disposal of waste products.

DENT1045 Introduction to the Dental Hygiene Profession 42 hours

This area relates to the profession of dental hygiene and the regulatory context for dental hygiene practice. An overview of the history of the profession, its evolution as a self-regulated profession in Ontario will provide the background for further discussion regarding the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, role of the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario, scope of practice and recognition of dental hygienists as a clinician, oral health educator, health promoter, advocate and coordinator. The significance of standards of practice, quality assurance, ethics and professional associations are explored. Finally students will be introduced to the concept of interprofessional care.

DENT1046 Dental Radiography for the Dental Hygienist 56.0 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 and manage waste to minimize impact on environment.

DENT2000 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 Practice & Jurisprudence 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.

DENT2005 Role of the Dental Hygienist in Orthodontics 42.0 Hours

This course provides knowledge of the specialties of orthodontics. 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.

DENT2007 Health Promotion and Community Dental Health 42.0 Hours

This area relates to the role of the dental hygienist in community and public health, health promotion and health related education activities and messaging for individuals and groups. Included in this area is an introduction to strategies for the promotion of health under marketing, health education, collaboration, mass media use, and community organization. The dental hygiene process of care model as it relates to community oral health will also be examined. A study of epidemiological data assessment, social determinants of health, current trends and issues, the processes in program planning, the principles of teaching and learning and key factors for program evaluation will set the foundation for more advanced courses and service learning practicum in community settings.

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. Current technology used in dental hygiene practice will be introduced as well as dietary counselling and tobacco product cessation. 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.

DENT2017 Introduction to Dental Hygiene Clinical Practice 84.0 hours

During this course students will transition into the provision of direct client care. Students will provide comprehensive dental hygiene care for a student partner prior to providing services to community clients. The Dental Hygiene Process of Care will be reinforced; advanced instrumentation skills introduced; and environmentally friendly practices encouraged.

DENT2018 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Intermediate 126.0 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. The provision of dental hygiene services will be extended to a community setting. Students will be expected to assume more responsibility for decision-making regarding client care and personal and professional growth. Students will protect the environment by responsible use of consumables and disposal of waste products.

DENT3005 Evidence Based Dental Hygiene Practice 42.0 hours

The course will build on a basic knowledge of statistics and research methods used in health research. The student will examine the use of scientific research in professional practice. The student will also learn to critically appraise scientific articles and make clinical decisions using an evidence based process. Finally the student will disseminate information in writing and orally.

DENT3006 Dental Hygiene Clinical - Advanced 126.0 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 protect the environment by responsible use of consumables and disposal of waste products. In addition, some placement agencies may require police background checks and additional immunization (i.e. flu shot).

DENT3007 Dental Hygiene Clinical Consolidation 126.0 Hours

The student will continue to gain experience in clinic and non-traditional settings. Emphasis will be placed on time management, positive environmental practices and consolidation of skills. Students will be expected to assume responsibility for decision-making regarding client care, personal and professional growth. In addition, some placement agencies may require police background checks and additional immunization (i.e. flu shot).

HLTH1000 Health Care in Canada 42 hours

This course will increase your students understanding of the principles of the Canada Health Act and the social, technological and economical factors that influence health care. You will develop a global view through exploring our national health care system. You will develop an awareness of what it means to be a health care worker as you explore the influence of professional values and ethics on health care decisions. Trends that are currently affecting health care delivery will be discussed.

HLTH1003 Preparation for Clinical Practice 42.0 hours

This course will assist the student in preparing for entry into clinical practice within Georgian College. The student will learn the characteristics of a positive client/practitioner relationship and the professional and ethical responsibilities related to client care. In addition the student will learn how to collect client information consistent with current privacy regulations and professional standards of practice. Finally students will experience how to share information with other health care professionals within the client's Circle of Care.

HLTH2003 Diverse Populations and Health Beliefs 42.0 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 health care. The unique needs of various groups including the elderly, children and women will also be investigated.

HLTH3000 Interprofessional Practice 42.0 hours

This course considers the role of the healthcare professional as part of an interprofessional health team. Students will engage in health activities as part of interprofessional teams through case management scenarios and practical experiences. Students will develop skills in communicating with and gaining a deeper understanding of other professions. Recognizing the relative strengths of each group and managing conflict will also be reviewed.

HTLH3001 Health Policy and Advocacy 42.0 hours

This course explores the impact of health policy on self and society. A broader overview of how policies are developed will allow for the discussion of health issues in need of policy decisions and the evaluation of policy alternatives. The role of advocacy by individuals in society as well as stakeholder groups will be considered as it relates to influencing policy directions. An overview of policy writing will be provided. Encouragement for future involvement as community citizens will be fostered.

STAT2005 Introduction to Statistics and Research Methods 42 hours

This area relates to the principles and methods used in health research both quantitative and qualitative. An overview of research methodology, rigor, bias and research ethics will be included to ensure the student can critically appraise a research paper. Students will be introduced to the methods used to present and describe information as well as some ability to draw conclusions about populations of data based on samples. The selection and use of summary values such as measures of central tendency and measures of variation are examined as well as some inferential statistical techniques.

How To Apply

Last Update: March 08, 2012.