About the Program

Dental Hygiene


Emphasis

The course of study in the Dental Hygiene program provides a broad-based education in the social, behavioral, and biological sciences with special emphasis toward:

  • teaching,
  • community health,
  • and research. 

Dental Hygiene Activities

Although legal dental hygiene functions vary from state to state, some of the functions routinely performed by a dental hygienist include, but are not limited to:

  • calculus and plaque removal (hard and soft deposits) from above and below the gum line
  • examination of the teeth and oral structure, including a soft tissue exam
  • exposing, processing, and interpreting dental radiographs – Digital and Standard film
  • plaque control instruction and developing personal oral hygiene programs for home care
  • placing temporary fillings, applying periodontal dressings, removing sutures, polishing and re-contouring amalgam restorations (Only with advanced training)
  • dietary and tobacco use counseling
  • applying caries-preventive agents, such as fluorides and pit and fissure sealants
  • educating the individual patient and the general public about the importance of good oral hygiene habits
  • oral cancer and blood pressure screening
  • designing community dental health programs
  • oral health care research, data collection, and tabulation
  • working with special population groups (eg, minority groups, geriatric, mentally/physically disabled persons)

CODA logoAccreditation

TSU's program in Dental Hygiene is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of “approval without reporting requirements.” 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 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.

Mission Statement

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Policies

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Passing Rates

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