2016 – 2017
Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title:	Dental Hygiene
Career Cluster:	Health Science

AS	
CIP Number	1351060200	
Program Type	College Credit	
Standard Length	88 credit hours 	
CTSO	HOSA: Future Health Professionals	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	29-2021 Dental Hygienists  	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml 	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

This program is designed to prepare students for employment as dental hygienists SOC Code-29-2021 Dental Hygienist or to provide supplemental training for persons previously or currently employed in this occupation.

The content includes but is not limited to patient assessment, dental hygiene instrumentation and direct patient care services (scaling/root planing/curettage/radiographs/oral hygiene-instruction/expanded functions), community dental health, dental office emergencies, infection control, special needs dental care, office management, employability skills, ethics and jurisprudence.

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 88 credit hours.

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the health care delivery system and health occupations.
02.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively.
03.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities.
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts.
05.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures.
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures.
08.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare.
09.0	Demonstrate employability skills.
10.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
11.0	Apply basic math and science skills. 
12.0	Perform expanded functions for the dental hygienist.
13.0	Perform dental office procedures.
14.0	Identify, describe, maintain and utilize dental instruments and equipment.
15.0	Identify and perform dental and radiographic procedures.
16.0	Identify properties and uses, and manipulate dental materials.
17.0	Describe the legal and ethical responsibilities of the hygienist. 
18.0	Identify and explain the formation and function of the head, neck, dental structures and tissues including pathological conditions of the human body in relation to the oral cavity. 
19.0	Identify and explain principles of microbiology, disease transmission, disease prevention and perform principles of infection control procedures relating to dental care.
20.0	Identify and explain usage, administration, indications, contraindications, adverse reactions and precautions of pharmaceutical and anesthetic agents used in the treatment of dental disease and of those agents which may influence patient care while receiving dental treatment.
21.0	Describe principles and perform techniques of preventive dentistry.
22.0	Perform patient assessment.
23.0	Perform direct patient services.
24.0	Implement and evaluate community health interventions and research activities.

2016 – 2017
Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title: 	Dental Hygiene 
CIP Number: 	1351060200 
Program Length: 	88 credit hours 
SOC Code(s): 	29-2021

Standards 1-11 are referred to as the Health Science Core and are required standards in this program. Secondary and Postsecondary students completing the health science core will not have to repeat the core in any other health science program in which it is a part.  When the recommended sequence is followed, the structure allows students to complete at specified points for employment or remain for advanced training or cross-training.  

To ensure consistency whenever these courses are offered, the health science core standards (1-11) have been placed in a separate document. You can access the course standards and benchmarks by visiting this link: http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/5652/urlt/health_sci_-core_psav_cc_1617.rtf

The AS degree requires the inclusion of a minimum of 15 credits of general education coursework according to SACS, and it must be transferable according to Rule 6A-14.030 (2), F.A.C.  At the completion of this program, the student will be able to:	

Dental Hygiene Students completing the following intended outcomes (12-24) have met the requirements of the Dental Hygiene Program and qualify to make application for the Dental Hygiene National Board and state licensure examinations. 
	
12.0	Perform expanded functions for the dental hygienist as permitted by Florida Statutes/Law--The student will be able to:	
12.01	Demonstrate instrument transfer, evacuation, and the principles of four-handed dentistry.	
12.02	Perform expanded functions as permitted by the Florida Statutes/Law pertaining to the practice of dental hygiene.	
13.0	Perform dental office procedures--The student will be able to:	
13.01	Maintain appointment control with effective time management skills.	
13.02	Assess, create, modify, and maintain an active recare system.	
13.03	Prepare and maintain accurate patient records.	
13.04	Prepare and maintain patient financial records, collect fees.	
13.05	Prepare and maintain office financial records.	
13.06	Prepare and maintain dental office inventory control and purchasing.	
13.07	Demonstrate public relations responsibilities of the secretary/receptionist.	
13.08	Demonstrate skills on office equipment to include computers and dental office management systems.	
13.09	Maintain a positive office environment.	
13.10	Receive and dismiss patients and visitors.	
13.11	Demonstrate reporting and recording of adverse events.	
14.0	Identify, describe, maintain and utilize dental instruments and equipment--The student will be able to:	
14.01	Identify various types, functions and operations of dental operatory and laboratory equipment.	
14.02	Maintain dental operatory equipment and instruments including proper sharpening techniques.	
14.03	Identify types and functions of dental hygiene instruments. 	
15.0	Identify and perform dental and radiographic procedures--The student will be able to:	
15.01	Describe history, physics and biological effects of ionizing radiation.	
15.02	Identify parts of the imaging machine including accessories.	
15.03	Demonstrate radiologic health protection techniques.	
15.04	Perform various forms of processing procedures that include application and care.	
15.05	Place and expose dental and radiographs that should include chemical emulsion, digital and phosphor plates, and understand the relevance of exposure settings, times and patient record keeping.	
15.06	Identify radiographic anatomical landmarks.	
15.07	Mount radiographic surveys and/or save and store digital files.	
15.08	Maintain unexposed film inventory and storage.	
16.0	Identify properties and uses, and manipulate dental materials--The student will be able to:	
16.01	Identify properties and uses and manipulation of gypsum.	
16.02	Identify properties and uses and manipulation of restorative materials.	
16.03	Identify properties and uses and manipulation of dental cements.	
16.04	Identify properties and uses and manipulation of impression materials.	
16.05	Identify properties and uses and manipulation of acrylics and/or thermoplastics.	
16.06	Identify properties and uses and manipulation of waxes.	
16.07	Perform dental laboratory procedures to include the fabrication of casts, custom trays, temporary crowns and/or bridges.	
16.08	Clean and removable dental appliances.	
17.0	Describe the legal and ethical responsibilities of the dental hygienist--The student will be able to:	
17.01	Define commonly used legal vocabulary relating to dentistry.	
17.02	Describe ethical considerations/obligations in the dental team-patient relationship.	
17.03	Explain risk management and root cause analysis.	
17.04	Identify areas of Florida Statute 466 and Rule chapter 64B5 applicable to dentistry and dental hygiene.	
17.05	Apply self-assessment skills to prepare for life-long learning.	
17.06	Apply ethical principles, legal and regulatory concepts to resolve ethical dilemmas.	
18.0	Identify and explain the formation and function of the head, neck, dental structures and tissues including pathological conditions of the human body in relation to the oral cavity--The student will be able to:	
18.01	Identify structures and functions of head and neck anatomy including bones, muscles, sinuses, salivary glands, lymph nodes, nerves and blood vessels.	
18.02	Identify embryonic development of head, oral cavity, and teeth.	
18.03	Describe the histological components of the head, oral cavity, and elements of the teeth and supporting structures.	
18.04	Describe and differentiate between normal and malocclusion.	
18.05	Identify the elements of the chemical basis of life, cellular metabolism and the structure of the major tissue types of the human body.	
18.06	Describe the metabolism of nutrient foods, vitamins and minerals by the human body and pathological conditions related to nutrient deficiencies.	
18.07	Identify anatomical structures and physiological function of the principle systems of the human body including the skeletal, muscular, integumentary, circulatory, lymphatic, endocrine, digestive, reproductive, respiratory, urinary, and nervous systems.	
18.08	Recognize and describe oral pathological conditions related to the teeth and their supporting structures.	
18.09	Identify teeth and their landmarks, and the morphological characteristics of each individual tooth.	
18.10	Recognize and describe developmental anomalies related to the teeth, face, and oral structures.	
19.0	Identify and explain principles of microbiology, disease transmission, disease prevention, and perform infection control procedures--The student will be able to:	
19.01	Differentiate between pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms.	
19.02	Describe pathogens and modes of disease transmission.	
19.03	Differentiate between aseptic and non-aseptic environments.	
19.04	Perform aseptic handwashing technique.	
19.05	Describe ,apply and differentiate methods of cleaning, disinfection and sterilization 	
19.06	Demonstrate the use of the microscope.	
19.07	Collect and prepare slides for examination for pathology.	
19.08	Recognize the need for and proper precautions for the prevention of disease transmission during all dental related procedures.	
19.09	Identify the role of prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells, viruses, and bacteria in the infections and mechanisms of diseases.	
19.10	Identify the genetics of microbes including replication of DNA and protein synthesis, mutation and gene transfer.	
20.0	Identify and explain usage, administration, indications, contraindications, adverse reactions and precautions of pharmaceutical and anesthetic agents used in the treatment of dental disease--The student will be able to:	
20.01	Identify drug requirements, agencies, and regulations.	
20.02	Record a drug prescription on a patient's chart.	
20.03	Identify drug actions, side effects, indications and contraindications; verify with Physician's Desk Reference or its equivalent. 	
20.04	Identify common drugs used in dentistry.	
20.05	Prepare and apply a topical anesthetic agent.	
20.06	Identify properties of anesthetics.	
20.07	Prepare armamentarium and administer local anesthetics using recognized techniques for pain control.	
20.08	Monitor and identify precautions in the use of nitrous oxide-oxygen conscious sedation.	
20.09	Identify drugs and chemicals used for infection control in the dental office.	
20.10	Recognize specific conditions in the oral cavity caused by pharmaceutical agents accordingly.	
20.11	Describe methods of administering local and topical anesthetics.	
20.12	Identify the tissues innervated by each of the nerves associated with dental local and topical anesthesia.	
20.13	Describe properties and mode of action of the ideal local and topical anesthetic.	
20.14	List medical considerations in choosing a local and topical anesthetic.	
20.15	Describe the process of drug metabolism.	
21.0	Describe principles and perform techniques of preventive dentistry--The student will be able to:	
21.01	Identify, communicate, and instruct patients on applicable methods of preventive dentistry that utilize risk assessment, evidence based learning, individualized preventive care plans, counseling regarding health status and rationale for preventive care plan, and training to perform necessary oral hygiene skills.	
21.02	Perform oral prophylaxis and anticariogenic treatments.	
21.03	Identify and describe deficiencies that manifest symptoms in the oral cavity and communicate applicable therapies.	
21.04	Formulate and present diets to address specific dental needs and provide nutritional counseling.	
22.0	Perform patient assessment--The student will be able to:	
22.01	Take, record, and correlate medical/dental history with dental hygiene treatment plan and services to be performed.	
22.02	Use appropriate armamentarium to assess and chart suspected findings of the oral cavity.	
22.03	Take, record, and correlate vital sign observations with dental hygiene treatment plan and services to be performed.	
22.04	Assess vital signs in order to prevent patient complications.	
22.05	Perform record and correlate extraoral and intraoral examination findings with dental hygiene treatment plan and patient services to be performed.	
22.06	Conduct comprehensive periodontal examination including pocket depth, mobility, furcations, radiographic findings, and tissue health.	
22.07	Consult with dentist and physicians to verify dental and medical information and develop the treatment plan to be implemented.	
22.08	Observe and record existing restorations, conditions, and suspected pathologies.	
22.09	Interpret and correlate dental radiographs and dental charting with dental hygiene treatment plan.	
22.10	Perform soft tissue reassessment and evaluate the effects of initial dental hygiene therapy and make appropriate therapy modifications or referrals.	
22.11	Recognize systemic diseases from oral manifestations.	
22.12	Record diagnosis made by dentist.	
22.13	Recognize and react appropriately to contraindications to dental treatment found in medical and dental history.	
22.14	Identify and assess dental office emergencies and follow the appropriate protocol for treatment.	
23.0	Perform direct patient services--The student will competently provide dental hygiene process of care for the child, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient as well as the special needs patient and be able to:	
23.01	Detect calculus for removal and differentiate between deposits and other causes of tooth surface roughness.	
23.02	Scale and root plane the teeth, performing periodontal debridement using appropriate armamentarium and instrumentation technique.	
23.03	Apply appropriate chemo-therapeutic agents.	
23.04	Manipulate mechanical instruments for deposit removal, i.e. ultrasonic and prophyjet and/or slowspeed handpiece.	
23.05	Perform soft tissue curettage with appropriate instruments.	
23.06	Apply desensitizing agents where applicable.	
23.07	Communicate to patients all home therapies intended to restore and maintain soft tissue health for long term care.	
23.08	Provide and communicate dietary counseling for health maintenance and specific healing needs.	
23.09	Provide and communicate recommendations for patient use of caries prevention agents.	
23.10	Provide a comprehensive collection of patient data to identify the physical and oral health status.	
23.11	Provide analysis of assessment findings and use of critical thinking in order to address the patient’s dental hygiene treatment needs.	
23.12	Establish a dental hygiene care plan that reflects the realistic goals and treatment strategies to facilitate optimal oral health.	
23.13	Provide patient-centered treatment and evidence-based care in a manner minimizing risk and optimizing oral health.	
23.14	Measure the extent to which goals identified in the dental hygiene care plan are achieved.	
23.15	Complete an accurate recording of all documentation relevant to patient care.	
24.0	Implement and evaluate community health interventions and research activities--The student will be able to:	
24.01	Demonstrate competence in assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of community health interventions.	
24.02	Formulate and analyze research methodologies for community health interventions.	
24.03	Interpret research findings in scientific literature.	
24.04	Apply research findings to dental hygiene care delivery.	
24.05	Apply statistical analysis and evidence based research to health trends and community interventions.	
24.06	Collaborate and perform a needs assessment with community partners.	
24.07	Differentiate scientific value of literature found in both electronic and traditional mediums.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students. In depth clinical information and requirements can be found in the Commission on Dental Accreditation Dental Hygiene Standards. 

Special Notes

General education content must include oral and written communications, Psychology and Sociology.

Biomedical science content must include content in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, general pathology and/or pathophysiology, nutrition and pharmacology.

Dental sciences content must include tooth morphology, head, neck and oral anatomy, oral embryology and histology, oral pathology, radiography, periodontology, pain management, and dental materials.

Graduates must be competent in providing the dental hygiene process of care which includes:  Assessment, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation. 

Students are prepared to take the Dental Hygiene National Board and state licensure examinations.  Dental Hygiene Programs accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation are required to implement clinical experiences outlined in these program standards.

This program meets the Department of Health HIV/AIDS, domestic violence education and prevention of medical errors requirements.

If students in this program are seeking a licensure, certificate or registration through the Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635 F.S. for more information on disqualification for a license, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health. 

Outcomes 01-11 are referred to as the Health Careers Core and do not have to be completed if the student has previously completed the Core in another health science program.  The Core should be taken first or concurrently with the first course in the program.  Following the successful completion of the core, the student is eligible to take the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio.

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

HOSA: Future Health Professionals is the intercurricular career and technical student organization providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. 

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Additional Resources

For additional information regarding articulation agreements, Bright Futures Scholarships, Fine Arts/Practical Arts Credit and Equivalent Mathematics and Equally Rigorous Science Courses please refer to:
http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml