Revised 05/2010
DNH 146 - Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist (2 CR.)
Course Description
This course introduces the theoretical and practical study of various concepts and methods used in describing, preventing, and controlling periodontal disease. Presents etiology, microbiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of diseases. Lecture 2 hours per week.
General Course Purpose
This course is intended to provide a study of the etiology, clinical manifestations, prognosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontal examinations, treatment planning, and the dental hygienist’s role in periodontal therapy are emphasized.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
None.
Course Objectives
Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:
- Describe the periodontium in health and in disease.
- Discuss the role of inflammation in periodontal disease.
- Discuss the host response and host-bacterial interactions.
- Discuss the mechanisms of bone loss and patterns of bone destruction.
- Name the major classifications of periodontal disease.
- Discuss iatrogenic and systemic influences on the periodontium.
- Discuss the physiologic adaptive capacity of the periodontium to occlusal forces.
- Discuss the treatment sequence used for periodontal therapy.
- Describe the techniques used in nonsurgical and surgical periodontal therapy.
- Discuss the rationale for periodontal treatment and the role of the dental hygienist.
- Discuss the role of prevention and maintenance in periodontal therapy.
- Discuss periodontal considerations for restorative procedures and dental implants.
Major Topics to Be Included
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Periodontium
- The Role of Inflammation and the Host Response in Periodontal Disease
- Microbiology of Periodontal Disease
- Iatrogenic and Systemic Influences
- Periodontal Disease and Associated Conditions
- Periodontal Emergencies
- Occlusal Trauma
- Clinical Assessment and Treatment Planning
- Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy
- Principles of Periodontal Surgery
- Prevention and Maintenance
- Oral Rehabilitation for the Periodontal Patient