Dental Hygiene Care II Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

DHYG-2231-001 Dental Hygiene Care II

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: DHYG 2201

Course Description

A continuation of Dental Hygiene Care I. Dental hygiene care for the medically or dentally compromised patient including advanced instrumentation techniques.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(2 sem hrs; 1 lec, 4 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Students are required to have the most current edition of textbooks.

• Wilkins' Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist and access code for Navigate 2 by Linda D. Boyd, Lisa F. Mallonee, and Charlotte J.Wyche, 14th edition, Jones & Bartlettt Learning, 2023.
• Active Learning Workbook for Wilkins' Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist by Jane. F Halaris and Charlotte J. Wyche, 14th edition, Jones and Bartlett Learning, 2023.
• Case Studies in Dental Hygiene by Evelyn M. Thompson, 3rd edition, Pearson, 2013.
• Current Elsevier Adaptive Quizzing

Teaching Methods

The course is taught in a lecture/lab format.  Various teaching methods will be used to facilitate the goals and objectives of this course, including lectures, group discussions, and lab projects.  The material will be posted on Blackboard Ultra.  Lab assignments are included to support learning and will encompass case studies, homework, and adaptive quizzing. 

Supplies

Technical Skills and Requirements

The use of the computer is an integral part of this course. Students are responsible for bringing a tablet or laptop to class. Please ensure the battery is charged and ready to go, as well as any required updates, to avoid computer issues in the classroom during testing. Install and ensure that the Respondus Lockdown Browser is functioning correctly. Utilize CTL resources for technical help by contacting the CTL Student Help Center at ctlstudenthelp@actx.edu or by phone at 806-371-5992.

Communication

The course syllabus contains my email address and office phone number. The best way to contact me is through your student email in Blackboard. I will check my emails Monday-Friday first thing in the morning and throughout the day as time allows. I will respond to your email within 24 hours. I will answer emails sent over the weekend the following Monday morning. Please remember the use of netiquette when corresponding with faculty, staff, and peers. 

Other Supplies

1. Students are required to have regular, reliable access to a computer with a stable internet connection.
2. Library card for AC and/or city library.
3. Printer, print cartridges. Students may be required to print material.
4. Additional materials may be needed.

Student Performance

Changes to the Syllabus and the Course

The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the Syllabus and the course as deemed necessary. Any changes will be posted on the Blackboard Announcements page of the course, and students will also be notified by email. 

Course Description

A continuation of Dental Hygiene Care I. Dental hygiene care for the medically or dentally compromised patient, including advanced instrumentation techniques. 

End-of-Course Outcomes

At the end of the course, the student will formulate a dental hygiene care plan for the medically and/or dentally compromised patient and describe advanced instrumentation techniques.       

Participation and Instructor Help

Learning activities in this course are designed to enhance the understanding of concepts. As a student, you are expected to prepare for these sessions and participate appropriately. All students are considered mature enough to ask questions, seek help and assistance from faculty, and are encouraged to ask questions during class.                                   

Review of Special Needs and Medical Conditions

Chapter Objectives

After studying  the material, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the categories of the ASA Physical Status Classification System and provide examples of adaptations necessary when providing dental hygiene care for a patient in each category.

2. Outline the current prophylactic regimens for dental procedures.

3. Outline the resting vital sign ranges for infants through older adults.

4. Outline the current adult blood pressure classifications.

5. Compare and contrast the following cardiovascular conditions: a)  angina, b) myocardial infarction, c) hypertension, d) angioplasty, e) congestive heart failure, f) arrhythmia,  g) artificial valve, h) infective endocarditis, i) ischemic stroke, j) hemorrhagic stroke

Chapter 55:  The Patient with Cancer

Chapter Objectives

After studying  the chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Identify healthcare professionals involved in the multidisciplinary oncology team.

2. Explain several systemic medical treatment options utilized in cancer management.

3. Describe common oral complications secondary to cancer treatment.

4. Provide examples of evidence-based dental hygiene care strategies for mucositis management.

Chapter 56:  The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Patient

Chapter Objectives

After studying  the chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Discuss the dental hygienist's role in the pre-and post-surgery care of the oral and maxillofacial surgery patient.

2. Discuss the pre-and post-surgical care planning for the maxillofacial surgery patient.

3. Identify the types of maxillary and mandibular fractures and discuss treatment options.

4. Describe the modifications for dental hygiene treatment, diet, and personal oral care procedures needed after maxillofacial surgery.

5. Explain the dental hygiene care needed before and after general surgery.

Chapter 57: The Patient with a Seizure Disorder

Chapter Objectives

After studying  this chapter, the student will  be able to:

1. Define each term associated with the type of seizure disorder.

2. Describe the etiology of seizure disorders.

3. Discuss the clinical manifestations of seizure disorders.

4. Develop a dental hygiene care plan, including patient education and prevention strategies, for working with patients with seizure disorders.

5. Prepare an emergency care protocol for a patient having a seizure.

Chapter 58: The Patient with a Mental Health Disorder

Chapter Objectives

After studying this chapter, the student will  be able to:

1. Describe the various types of mental health disorders and significant symptoms.

2. Summarize the side effects of treatment for mental health disorders that may have oral health complications.

3. Explain dental hygiene treatment considerations for each major category of mental health disorder.

Chapter 59:  The Patient with a Substance-Related Disorder

Chapter Objectives

After studying  the chapter, the student will  be able to:

1. Explain key terms and concepts related to the metabolism, intoxication effects, and use patterns of alcohol.

2. Identify physical health hazards, medical effects, and oral manifestations associated with alcohol and substances of abuse.

3. Interpret names of the most commonly abused drugs and describe their intoxication effects and methods of use.

4. Discuss modifications for the dental hygiene process of care for chemically dependent patients. Recognize patients who are cognitively impaired and cannot be treated safely.

5. Employ the National Institute on Drug Abuse Quick Screen to assess patients at risk for alcohol or substance abuse and provide resources for the patient to seek help.

Chapter 60:  The Patient with a Respiratory Disease

Chapter Objectives

After studying  this chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Identify and define key terms and concepts related to respiratory diseases.

2. Differentiate between upper and lower respiratory diseases.

3. Describe the respiratory disease's etiology, symptoms, and management.

4. Plan and document dental hygiene care and oral hygiene instructions for patients with compromised respiratory function.

Chapter 62:  The Patient with a Blood Disorder

Chapter Objectives

After studying this chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the major types of blood disorders.

2. Explain the general and oral signs and symptoms of the significant types of blood disorders.

3. Identify clinical implications of selected blood values, including the INR (international normalized ratio), platelet count, and neutrophil count.

4. Provide examples of dental hygiene treatment modifications necessary for the patient with a blood disorder.

Chapter 63: The Patient with an Autoimmune Disease

Chapter Objectives

After studying this chapter, the student will  be able to:

1. Describe how autoimmune diseases affect the immune system.

2. Identify the various types of autoimmune diseases, the identifying symptoms, and the treatment.

3. Plan dental hygiene care modifications for the patient with an autoimmune disease.

Chapter 39:  Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy and Adjunctive Therapy and Advanced Instrumentation Techniques

Chapter Objectives

After studying  the chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Apply the principles of periodontal instrumentation to the treatment of patients with moderate to advanced disease.

2. Describe advanced instrumentation techniques.

3. Explain the goals and describe clinical endpoints or outcomes for nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

4. Devise a care plan for a patient with each of the periodontal classifications.

5. Describe the changes in the subgingival bacteria after periodontal debridement.

6. Describe the current evidence related to laser therapy for initial therapy.

7. Develop postoperative instructions for a patient following a nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

8. List the steps in re-evaluation of nonsurgical periodontal therapy and the decisions that must be based on the clinical outcomes.

9. Compare and contrast the risks and benefits of systemic antibiotics and local delivery of antimicrobials.

10 . Critically evaluate the benefit of local delivery of antimicrobials on changes in pocket depth and clinical attachment level (CAL).

Chapter 14:  Family Violence

Chapter Objectives

After studying  the chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the general, extraoral, and intraoral signs of child abuse and neglect.

2. Describe the general, physical, extraoral, and intraoral signs of elder abuse and neglect.

3. Discuss the signs and attitudes of the abused in an intimate partner violence situation.

4. Discuss the role of the dental hygienist in reporting suspected abuse or neglect of children, elders, and intimate partners.

5. Discuss Munchausen syndrome by proxy and describe indicators associated with the syndrome.

6. Describe the general and behavioral indicators of human trafficking victims.

Reyes Syndrome, Renal Failure, Epidermolysis Bullosa

Chapter Objectives

After studying the material, the student will be able to: 

Reye's Syndrome

1. Describe the etiology, signs, and symptoms of Reye's Syndrome, with emphasis on its connection to aspirin use in children.

2. Identify oral and systemic considerations that may affect the delivery of dental hygiene care in patients with a history of Reye's Syndrome.

3. Explain the importance of medication history review, especially in pediatric patients, and how to educate caregivers about the risks of aspirin use.

4. Demonstrate appropriate communication strategies when educating patients and guardians about safe medication practices in dental settings.

Renal Failure (Chronic Kidney Disease)

1. Define renal failure and differentiate between acute and chronic kidney disease, including stages and systemic complications.

2. Describe the oral manifestations commonly associated with chronic kidney disease (e.g., uremic odor, xerostomia, and gingival bleeding.

3. Modify dental hygiene treatment plans based on the patient's dialysis schedule, medical status, and bleeding tendency.

4. Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with medical providers, including nephrologists, to ensure safe and effective dental care.

5. Identify the need for antibiotic prophylaxis or other medical consults before treatment, particularly for patients with dialysis shunts or transplant history.

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB)

1. Describe the types and clinical features of Epidermolysis Bullosa, and how the condition affects oral mucosa and dental structures.

2. Identify specific dental hygiene modifications needed to prevent tissue trauma during care (e.g., use of nonabrasive instruments, gentle retraction).

3. Develop a preventive oral care plan tailored to the needs of patients with EB, emphasizing home care strategies and desensitization techniques.

4. Demonstrate sensitivity in patient management, including emotional and physical considerations for patients with painful or fragile skin conditions.

5. Discuss the interdisciplinary approach to care, including coordination with dermatology, nutrition, and pediatric care when applicable.

Case Studies in Dental Hygiene

Chapter Objective 

1. Distinguish the signs and symptoms of the disease from conditions considered within normal limits.

2. Recognize risk factors and behaviors that exacerbate the disease. 

3. Understand the disease process.

4. Apply appropriate modes of treatment management to assist the patient in arresting disease progression and achieving and maintaining optimal oral health. 

5. Integrate core scientific concepts and apply the dental hygiene process of care relating to specific case studies. 

6. Assess patient characteristics and interpret radiographs.

8. Plan and manage dental hygiene care.

9. Perform periodontal procedures.

10. Use preventive agents.

11. Provide supportive treatment services.

12. Demonstrate professional responsibility.                                           

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Cell Phone Policy Classroom/Lab

Cell phones including smart watches are not allowed in the classroom or lab.  If a student is found with a cell phone they will be immediately dismissed and marked absent.  Students with children or those expecting urgent calls must provide the Office Supervisor's number ( 806-354-6050) to caregivers and have calls directed there.  If you have a personal situation that requires you to have your cell phone, you must see your instructor.

Mailboxes

Each student is assigned a mailbox located inside the student locker room. Students are required to check their mailbox daily for various communication from the faculty.

Bulletin Board

First and second-year dental hygiene students have designated areas on a shared bulletin board inside the student locker room where various announcements may be posted.

Emergency Contacts

Phone numbers that family members may use to reach a student in case of an emergency are as follows:

Dental Clinic Office Supervisor:   (806) 354-6050

Amarillo College Police:   (806) 371-5163

Academic Grievance Procedure

A student who has a grievance concerning an academic course in which he or she is enrolled is directed to appeal in the following order to the: (1) Instructor (2) Department Chair/Program Director (3) Dean of Health Sciences/Division Committee (4) Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs (5) Vice President of Academic Affairs and (6) College President in that order.

Grading Criteria

Required Course Assignments and Learning Activities

The course calendar indicates the due date and time for all assignments.  Late work is not accepted and the students will receive a grade of 0 for missed or late assignments. 

Grading Criteria

The course will consist of the following:  chapter tests, homework, a mid-term exam,  a case study exam, and a comprehensive final exam. 

The final course grade will be computed as follows:

Chapter tests count for  25% of your final grade.

The mid-term exam counts for 20% of your final grade.

Homework counts for 15% of your total grade.  

The case study exam counts for 15% of your grade.

Comprehensive Final  Exam counts for 25% of your grade.

The following grade scale applies throughout this course:

A = 93-100%

B = 83-92%

C = 75-82%

F = Below 75%

Note:  A grade of “D” is not possible in this course.

In order to pass the course, a student must achieve a final grade of 75% and meet all requirements of the course.

Make-up Policy for Missed Work

If a student is absent when an examination is given, the student may make up the missed work as follows:

• It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the instructor within 24 hours of returning from the absence to reschedule the examination.
• The missed work must be made up within TWO Amarillo College school days, where the day ends at 4:00 p.m.
• The student's make-up work may earn a maximum of 80% of the original point value.

Attendance

Attendance Policy

"Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class in accordance with the requirements of the course as established by the instructor." (Amarillo College Student's Rights and Responsibilities Publication).

The Health Sciences Division follows established attendance requirements for all classroom, lab, and clinical experiences. Students should refer to their program handbook or course syllabus for specific attendance standards.

Attendance is defined as being present, alert, and engaged for the entire class or lab session. Students who fall asleep or fail to participate may be asked to leave and will be marked absent. This policy applies to both in-person and virtual formats.

Absences will be monitored and evaluated to determine a student's final course grade. A student with less than 90% attendance in class or lab may fail the course. Student absenteeism jeopardizes the completion of the course. Students must report any anticipated class/lab absence to the instructor. Students who are not present for roll call are counted absent. A student who leaves class or lab early is counted absent.

A student will receive ONE bonus point to the final grade for perfect attendance with a prior passing minimal average of 75%.

Classroom Remediation Policy

To support student success and ensure mastery of course material, any student scoring below 75% on a test (excluding the final exam) must complete a remediation process.

Within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the grade, the student must schedule and attend a tutoring session with the program tutor. The course instructor will provide a targeted remediation assignment by email.

The remediation assignment must be completed and submitted to the instructor before the next scheduled test. Failure to complete any part of the remediation process, including timely tutoring and assignment submission, will result in a 10% deduction from the total possible points on the next test.

Repeated non-compliance within a semester will result in a meeting with the Program Director and may lead to further academic action. This policy is designed to provide timely support and promote ongoing success in the Dental Hygiene Program.

Calendar

Additional Information

Course Lab Instructors:

Dr. Plunk, DDS

Haley Epperson, RDH