Erie Community College, State University of New York

DENTAL HYGIENE

Program Description

The Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a licensed health-care professional dedicated to the maintenance of optimal oral health and the prevention of oral disease. These professional goals are accomplished through individual and community education, through delivery of preventive dental health services, and through highly skilled patient treatment. Professional responsibilities vary by state or province but generally include the following clinical skills: perform thorough patient assessment including review of health history, recording vital signs, head and neck inspection, oral cancer screening, and dental charting; develop individualized oral self-care strategies; educate patients on the value of good oral health and its relationship to systemic health; perform various types of dental radiographic films; administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation; remove deposits and stains from the teeth; apply chemotherapeutic agents to treat or prevent dental diseases; manage special needs and medically compromised patients.

Dental Hygiene offers exceptional career opportunities to men and women of all ages and backgrounds. Most graduates are employed in general or specialty dental practices. Alternate practice settings may include hospitals, schools, nursing homes, public and private agencies and the military. Graduates may continue their education in baccalaureate or higher degree programs to expand their career options to teaching, research, management, consulting or the dental products industry.

Dental Hygienists are licensed by the state or province in which they plan to practice. Generally, candidates for licensure must be graduates of an accredited dental hygiene program, must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination taken near graduation and must pass a state or regional clinical examination. New York State uses the clinical examination administered by the Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners. This examination is also accepted by 13 other states and the District of Columbia. Canadian provinces require the National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination given in Canada.

Dental Hygienists are valuable members of the dental health- care team who work with dentists to provide oral health services to patients. They enjoy helping people, welcome challenging opportunities like performing detailed work and have an interest in life sciences. As a respected member of the dental team, Dental Hygienists can have a positive influence on the health of others, play a key role in the prevention of oral diseases, and enjoy a flexible, rewarding career.

Program Accreditation

The program in dental hygiene is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (312) 440-4653 at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.

Degree: Associate in Applied Science
Hegis: 5203
Curriculum Code: 0545
Total Degree Credits: 72.0
Campus Location: North
Health Sciences Division