Dental Materials Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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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.
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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

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Course

DHYG-1219-001 Dental Materials

Prerequisites

Course Description

Physical and chemical properties of dental materials including the application and manipulation of the various materials used in dentistry.

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.

• Dental Materials: Clinical Applications for Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists, Eakle and Bastin, 5th edition.

Supplies

Technical Skills and Requirements

Students will need access to a laptop, computer, or tablet for quizzes, tests, and assignments.

Students are required to have regular, reliable access to a stable internet connection.

Students need to be proficient in sending and receiving emails with attachments, uploading documents, and participating in discussion boards.

Computers can break, servers can crash, and electric power can go out. It is your responsibility to identify solutions for unexpected catastrophes by thinking ahead about solutions to potential problems. Possible solutions for each of the above scenarios include using a friend or relative's computer and accessing a computer in one of the computer labs on campus. Students will be responsible for bringing their tablets or laptops to every class session. Please have the battery charged up and ready to go. Students will ensure that the Respondus Lockdown Browser has been installed on the computer.

Utilize CTL resources for technical help. CTL Student Help Center: (806) 371-5992 or ctlstudenthelp@actx.edu

Communication

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. Library Card for AC and/or city library
2. Computer and Internet Access, Printer, Print Cartridges
3. Index cards, Paper, Pens, Markers
4. Additional Lab materials will be needed that are in your Dental Hygiene Kit

Student Performance

Course Meeting Day and Times

     Lecture: Friday @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am (Jones Hall Room 110)

     Lab: Monday @ 8:00 am - 12:00 pm (Jones Hall Room 136)

Additional Laboratory Faculty:

Ashlie Lang, RDH, MS

Kara Webb, RDH, BS

Becca Fronk, RDH

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 and all changes will be posted on the Blackboard Announcements page of the course and students will also be notified by email.

End of Course Outcomes  ( Workforce Education Course Manual WECM )

Differentiate between the various types of dental materials and their respective properties; and manipulate materials used in dentistry, Recognize various materials that have been used or placed for patients.

Course Outcomes (CODA-Aligned)

In alignment with the standards of Commission on Dental Accreditation, upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate competency in dental materials through the following measurable outcomes:

1.     Analyze the physical, mechanical, and biological properties of dental materials and relate these properties to their performance in the oral environment and long-term patient outcomes.

2.     Evaluate dental materials using evidence-based decision-making to support preventive, therapeutic, and restorative dental hygiene care.

3.     Apply principles of adhesion, bonding, and material science in the delivery of dental hygiene services, including sealants, desensitizing agents, and provisional restorations (as permitted by law).

4.     Demonstrate proper manipulation, placement, finishing, and polishing of dental materials commonly used in dental hygiene practice (e.g., sealants, fluoride, temporary restorations, polishing agents).

5.     Assess the condition and integrity of existing restorations and dental materials, identifying defects such as wear, fracture, and microleakage, and communicate findings to the dentist. 

6.     Select appropriate materials and armamentarium for preventive and therapeutic procedures based on patient assessment, risk factors, and clinical indications. 

7.     Integrate infection control principles, OSHA standards, and hazard communication guidelines in the safe handling, storage, and disposal of dental materials. 

8.     Evaluate the effectiveness of preventive agents (e.g., fluorides, antimicrobials, sealants, remineralization products) in reducing caries risk and managing oral disease.

9.     Analyze the impact of the oral environment, including biofilm, occlusal forces, and patient behaviors, on the longevity and performance of dental materials. 

10.   Educate patients on the benefits, limitations, and maintenance of dental materials, restorations, implants, and prostheses to support oral health and disease prevention.

11.   Apply critical thinking and clinical judgment to recognize material-related complications and recommend appropriate interventions or referrals.

Participation and Instructor Help

Learning activities in this course are designed to enhance the understanding of concepts.  As a student, you must 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.

Instructor Objectives:  This course will enable the student to use dental materials in accordance with their design features and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition, the student will be taught safety precautions and OSHA compliance.  The class will include introduction to the Eaglesoft Dental Software that will be used in the Clinic along with the Casey patient education modules. 

 After studying the material presented in this course of study and completing the projects in the lab, the student will be able to do the following:

1. Identify the materials commonly used in dentistry for restorative and lab procedures.
2. Demonstrate safe and appropriate handling of these materials
3. Recognize the clinical appearance and intraoral presence of restorative materials
4. Begin to understand the reasoning of a Dentist in choosing different materials
5. Feel comfortable in answering basic questions from patients concerning dental materials
6. Apply your knowledge base of dental materials to problems or opportunities that arise to help make reasonable opinions or suggestions and to help educate your patients as to what action or treatments might be appropriate, to report or present your findings to the dentist for their diagnoses and treatment of the patients.
7. Evaluate Case Studies and understand how to begin to build a patient Chart in Eaglesoft.
8. Utilize Casey patient education system to better educate your patients about dental care.

Chapter Objectives:

After reading each chapter, the reader should be able to:

Chapter 1-Introduction to Dental Materials

1. Discuss the importance of the study of dental materials for the allied oral health practitioner.
2. Examine why it is necessary that the allied oral health practitioner have an understanding of dental materials for the delivery of dental care.
3. Discuss evidence-based decision-making as it relates to dental materials. What questions might you ask yourself or your practice to make sure you are increasing the potential for successful patient care outcomes?
4. Review the historical development of dental materials.
5. List and compare the agencies responsible for setting standards and specifications for dental materials.
6. Discuss the requirements necessary for a consumer product to qualify for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Chapter 2-Oral Environment and Patient Considerations

1. Identify the qualities of the oral environment that make it challenging for long-term clinical performance of dental materials.
2. Describe the long-term clinical requirements of therapeutic and restorative materials.
3. List and give examples of the four types of biting forces and the tooth structures most ideally suited to them.
4. Define stress, strain, and ultimate strength and compare the ultimate strength of restorative materials during each type of stress to tooth structures.
5. Summarize how moisture and acidity in the mouth can affect dental materials.
6. Explain how galvanism can occur in the mouth and how it can be prevented.
7. Discuss thermal conductivity and thermal expansion and contraction, and compare the values of thermal expansion and conductivity of restorative materials with those of tooth structures.
8. Determine how mechanical and chemical adhesion, or bonding, work to retain restorations.
9. Describe the factors that determine successful adhesion, including wettability, viscosity, film thickness, and surface characteristics.
10. Describe microleakage and how it can lead to recurrent decay and postoperative sensitivity.
11. Define biocompatibility and discuss why requirements for biocompatibility may fluctuate.
12. Describe tooth color in terms of hue, value, and chroma.
13. Discuss the characteristics of oral biofilm and its role in the etiology of dental caries and periodontal disease.
14. Explain the importance of detection of restorations and methods for detection.

Chapter 3-Physical and Mechanical Properties of Dental Materials

1. Describe primary and secondary bonds and give an example of how each determines the properties of the material.
2. List the three forms of matter and give a defining characteristic of each.
3. Define density and explain the relationship between density, volume, and crystalline structure.
4. Define hardness and describe how hardness contributes to abrasion resistance.
5. Define elasticity and give an example of when elasticity is desirable in dental procedures.
6. Relate stiffness and proportional limit, and describe how these properties apply to restorative dental materials.
7. Define ductility and malleability, and explain how these characteristics contribute to the edge strength of a gold crown.
8. Explain the difference between toughness and resilience.
9. Describe brittleness and discuss how this property applies to restorative dental materials.
10. Define viscosity and thixotropy and describe the clinical significance of each.
11. Differentiate between therapeutic, preventive, and restorative materials.
12. List and describe the three main types of restorative dental materials.
13. Describe the reaction stages a material undergoes to acquire its final state.
14. Identify the variables in the manipulation of a material.

Chapter 4-General Handling and Safety of Dental Materials in the Dental Office

1. Identify five job-related health and safety hazards for employees in dental offices, and explain the methods of prevention for each one.
2. Explain the components of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Hazard Communication Standard.
3. Describe the ways that chemicals can enter the body.
4. Describe the employee and employer responsibility for safety training.
5. Describe the basic infection control methods for the handling of dental materials in the treatment area.
6. Identify the concepts and benefits of going green in the dental practice.
7. Discuss how the American Dental Association's Top 10 Initiatives of Sustainability can be incorporated into a general dental practice.

Chapter 5-Impression Materials

1. Describe the purpose of an impression.
2. Identify the three basic types of impressions.
3. Explain the importance of the key properties of impression materials.
4. Explain why alginate is an irreversible hydrocolloid.
5. List the supplies needed to make an alginate impression and explain how they are used.
6. Select trays for obtaining alginate impressions on a patient.
7. Demonstrate proper mixing of alginate, loading and seating the tray, and removing the set impression.
8. Evaluate upper and lower alginate impressions to ensure criteria for acceptablity has been met.
9. Identify proper methods to disinfect alginate impressions and prepare them for transport to the office laboratory.
10. Identify and troubleshoot problems experienced with alginate impressions.
11. Compare and contrast the physical and mechanical properties of polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) and polyether impression materials.
12. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using polyether impression material for a crown impression.
13. Explain the difference between a hydrophobic and a hydrophilic impression material.
14. Determine acceptability of cord placement and gingival retraction.
15. Identify how the use of ferric sulfate astringent can control gingival bleeding before making an impression.
16. Demonstrate the proper steps to make registration of a patient's bite in centric occlusion.
17. Assemble the cartridge of impression material with mixing tip and load into the dispenser.
18. Explain what a digital impression is and how it is used.
19. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of digital impressions.
20. Demonstrate proper disinfect of PVS and polyether impressions and prepare them for transport to the dental laboratory.

Chapter 6-Gypsum and Wax Products

1. Differentiate between positive and negative reproduction of oral structures.
2. Differentiate among diagnostic cast, working cast, and dies.
3. Describe the chemical and physical nature of gypsum products.
4. Explain the manufacturing process for gypsum products and how this affects their physical characteristics.
5. Compare the following properties and behaviors of gypsum products: strength, dimensional accuracy, solubility, and reproduction of detail.
6. List the American Dental Association-recognized gypsum products and their most appropriate uses.
7. Explain initial and final set of gypsum and the factors that affect the setting time, setting expansion, and strength.
8. Explain the procedure for mixing and handling gypsum products to create diagnostic casts.
9. Identify the common components of dental waxes.
10. Compare the properties of waxes.
11. Describe the clinical/laboratory significance of each of the properties of waxes.
12. Discuss the three classifications of waxes.
13. Differentiate between direct and indirect waxings and identify which property of dental waxes is most important in their difference.
14. Describe the usual color, form, and use of inlay, casting, baseplate, boxing, utility, and sticky waxes.
15. Prepare model plaster or stone for pouring.
16. Pour the anatomic and base portions of maxillary and mandibular diagnostic casts.
17. Trim maxillary and mandibular diagnostic casts.
18. Obtain a bite registration, using bite registration materials or utility wax.

Chapter 7-Principles of Bonding

1. Discuss the effects of acid etch on enamel and dentin.
2. List the basic steps of bonding.
3. Explain the differences between bonding to enamel and bonding to dentin.
4. Discuss the significance of the smear layer.
5. Describe "wet" dentin bonding.
6. Compare etch-and-rinse and self-etch bonding techniques.
7. Identify how the hybrid layer is formed and its importance in bonding to dentin.
8. Explain how universal adhesives differ from etch-and-rinse and self-etch adhesives.
9. Discuss the factors that interfere with good bonding.
10. Discuss the adverse effects of microleakage at restorative margins.
11. Demonstrate proper etching of enamel and dentin with phosphoric acid as permitted by state law.
12. Apply a bonding system to etched enamel and dentin as permitted by state law.

Chapter 8-Composites

1. Describe the various types of composite resin restorative materials.
2. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of each type of composite resin.
3. Discuss the similarities and differences among chemical-cured, light-cured, and dual-cured composite resins.
4. Describe how fillers affect the properties of composites.
5. Describe the important physical properties of composites.
6. Explain why incremental placement of composite resin is recommended.
7. Describe the factors that determine how long an incremental of composite resin should be light-cured.
8. Demonstrate proper placement of a sectional matrix for a class II composite.
9. Identify the appropriate type of composite for a class II cavity preparation.
10. Describe the process of selecting an appropriate shade of composite for a patient's restoration.
11. Demonstrate proper placement and light curing of a composite in a class II cavity preparation as permitted by the state dental practice act.
12. Light cure a composite resin restoration following recommended exposure times.
13. Demonstrate proper use of eye/retina protection.
14. Finish and polish a class III composite restoration as permitted by the state practice act.

Chapter 9-Glass Ionomers, Compomers, and Bioactive Materials

1. Describe the composition of glass ionomer cement restorative materials.
2. Explain the uses of glass ionomer cement restorative materials and their advantages and disadvantages.
3. Explain the effects of fluoride-releasing, resin-modified glass ionomer restorations in the prevention of recurrent caries.
4. List the two major components of compomers.
5. Describe the uses of compomers.
6. Compare the clinical applications of composite resin restorative materials with glass ionomer cement restorative materials.
7. Describe what bioactive dental materials are and what they are used for.

Chapter 10-Dental Ceramics

1. Discuss the attributes and shortcomings of dental porcelains.
2. Compare the clinical applications of restorations made from porcelain with those made from lithium disilicate.
3. Explain why crowns made from zirconia can be used to restore molars.
4. Describe the methods to process ceramic restorations.
5. Present a rationale for the selection of ceramic materials for restorations used in the anterior and posterior parts of the mouth.
6. Describe how porcelain bonds to metal for porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
7. Identify common causes for failure if ceramic restorations.
8. Compare the relative strengths of feldspathic porcelain, lithium disilicate, and zirconium.
9. Explain how CAD/CAM technology is used to fabricate a ceramic crown.
10. List the clinical applications for all-ceramic restorations.
11. Assist the dentist in cementing an all-ceramic crown or veneers.
12. Properly prepare the conditions in the operatory for shade taking and assist the dentist in obtaining a shade.

Chapter 11-Dental Amalgam

1. List the main components of dental amalgam.
2. Describe the particle shapes in lathe-cut, admix, and spherical alloys, and discuss their effects on condensation resistance of freshly mixed amalgam.
3. Identify corrosion and tarnish.
4. Compare the strength of amalgam with that of composite resin or glass ionomer cement.
5. Discuss the effect of mixing time on the strength and manipulation of amalgam.
6. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of amalgam as a restorative material.
7. Discuss the safety of amalgam as a restorative material.
8. Perform safe mercury hygiene practices in the dental office.
9. Collect and process amalgam scrap for recycling.
10. Select an appropriate size of matrix band for a class II amalgam preparation.
11. Assemble a Tofflemire band in its retainer.
12. Evaluate a class II amalgam matrix setup for meeting proper placement criteria.
13. Assist or place (as allowed by state law) amalgam in a class II cavity preparation.

Chapter 12-Metals and Alloys

1. Describe the differences among the types of gold alloy used for dental restorations.
2. Differentiate between high-noble, noble, and base-metal alloys.
3. Describe the properties of casting alloys.
4. Describe the properties of metals used for casting partial denture frameworks. 
5. Describe the properties needed for porcelain bonding alloys.
6. Explain the biocompatibility issues associated with some alloys.
7. Explain how solders are used.
8. List metals used for solders.
9. Identify how wrought metal alloys differ from casting alloys.
10. Describe the uses of wrought wire.
11. Explain the use of different types of metal for orthodontic archwire.
12. Explain the differences between cast and preformed endodontic posts.
13. Describe the types of materials used for preformed endodontic posts.

Chapter 13-Dental Implants

1. Describe the components of an implant used for a crown.
2. List the most common materials used for dental implants.
3. Explain osseointegration of an implant.
4. Discuss the indications and contraindications for dental implants.
5. Identify risks to the patient for implant surgery.
6. Compare the one-stage, two-stage, and immediate surgical procedures.
7. Make an impression for an implant using open-or-closed tray procedure (as permitted by state law).
8. Identify the uses for mini-implants.
9. Describe the assessments that should be done for dental implants at a hygiene visit.
10. Demonstrate to a patient the use of home care aids for dental implants.
11. Explain the rationale for the selection of instruments for cleaning titanium implants.
12. List the different types of sutures.
13. Demonstrate the removal of sutures.

Chapter 14-Polymers for Prosthetic Dentistry

1. Describe the formation of long-chain polymers from monomers.
2. Explain the effect that cross-linking has on the physical and mechanical properties of polymers.
3. Describe the stages of addition polymerization.
4. List the important properties of acrylic resins.
5. Compare the properties of hard and soft lining materials.
6. List the indications for long- and short-term soft liners.
7. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of chairside and laboratory-processed hard liners.
8. List the indications for the use of acrylic denture teeth versus porcelain teeth.
9. Demonstrate proper adjustment of a denture to relieve a sore spot as permitted by state law.
10. Demonstrate accurate use of the ultrasonic cleaner for cleaning complete and partial dentures in the office.
11. Describe how patients should be educated regarding the home care regimen for complete and partial dentures and necessary precautions to be taken when cleaning these appliances.

Chapter 15-Provisional Restorations

1. Explain the purpose of provisional coverage.
2. Describe circumstances that may require provisional coverage.
3. Identify the criteria necessary for a high-quality provisional restoration.
4. Describe the properties of provisional materials.
5. Distinguish among properties that are important for coverage in both posterior and anterior areas.
6. Differentiate between intracoronal and extracoronal restorations.
7. Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of preformed and custom crowns.
8. Differentiate among direct and indirect fabrication techniques.
9. Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of acrylic and composite resin provisional materials.
10. Describe the technique for fabrication of performed metal and polycarbonate crowns, custom crowns, and intracoronal cement provisional restorations.
11. Summarize patient education and home care instructions.
12. Fabricate and cement metal, polycarbonate, and custom provisional crowns.
13. Place an intracoronal cement provisional restoration.

Chapter 16-Dental Cement

1. Compare the various types of cement for: Pulpal protection - Luting - Restorations - Surgical dressing.
2. Describe the properties of cement and explain how these properties affect selection of cement for a dental procedure.
3. Identify the components of the various dental cements and how those components affect the properties of the cement.
4. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of each cement.
5. Describe the manipulation considerations for mixing cements.
6. Describe the procedure for filling a crown with luting cement and removing excess cement after cementation.
7. Apply the mixing technique for each type of cement.

Chapter 17-Abrasion, Finishing, Polishing, and Cleaning

1. Define abrasion, finishing, polishing, and cleaning.
2. Discuss the purpose of finishing, polishing, and cleaning of dental restorations and tooth surfaces.
3. Identify and discuss the factors that affect the rate and efficiency of abrasion.
4. Compare the relative ranking of abrasives on restorations and tooth structures.
5. List methods by which dental abrasives are applied.
6. Describe the contraindications to the use of abrasives on the tooth structure and restorations.
7. Describe the clinical decisions made to determine which abrasive to sue when finishing, polishing, or cleaning dental restorations or tooth structures.
8. Identify the abrasives and the procedures used for finishing and polishing metals, composite, and porcelain.
9. Describe the abrasives and procedures used for polishing and cleaning metals, composite, ceramic, and gold alloys as part of oral prophylaxis. 
10. Describe the safety and infection control precautions taken by the operator when using abrasives.
11. Relate the instructions given to patients to prevent and remove stain from tooth surfaces and restorations.
12. Finish and polish a preexisting amalgam restoration.
13. Polish a preexisting composite restoration.

Chapter 18-Preventive and Desensitizing Materials

1. Describe the applications of fluoride in preventive dentistry.
2. Explain how fluoride protects the teeth from caries.
3. Discuss the various methods of fluoride delivery.
4. Explain the benefits of using an antimicrobial rinse in conjunction with fluoride.
5. Describe the antimicrobial effects of chlorhexidine.
6. Apply topical fluoride gel, foam, varnish, or silver diamine fluoride as permitted by the state Dental Practice Act.
7. Describe how dental sealants protect pits and fissures from dental caries.
8. List the components of sealant material.
9. Apply sealants to teeth as permitted by the state Dental Practice Act.
10. Recite causes of tooth sensitivity.
11. Explain how desensitizing agents work.
12. List the types of materials used to treat sensitive teeth.
13. Apply desensitizing agents to sensitive teeth as permitted by the state Dental Practice Act.
14. Explain the remineralization process of enamel.
15. Describe how products for remineralization work.
16. Explain how resin infiltration of the early white spot lesion works.
17. Apply remineralizing products as permitted by the state Dental Practice Act.

Chapter 19-Teeth Whitening Materials and Procedures

1. Describe how whitening materials penetrate the teeth.
2. Compare and contrast the various whitening materials available for in-office, take home, and over-the-counter home use.
3. Describe the necessary precautions to take to protect the oral tissues when applying in-office power whitening products.
4. List the steps in the procedures for in-office power whitening.
5. Identify the potential side effects associated with in-office power whitening, and home whitening products.
6. Describe the methods to whiten nonvital teeth.
7. Discuss the relative effectiveness of whitening products and whitening toothpastes in removing stains from teeth.
8. Demonstrate proper fabrication of home whitening trays.
9. Explain to the patient how various whitening products are used.
10. Identify clinical situations in which enamel microabrasion might be used.
11. Explain how enamel microabrasion works. 

Chapter 20-Preventive and Corrective Oral Appliances

1. Describe the uses of mouth guards.
2. List the materials for the fabrication of mouth guards.
3. Explain to a patient how to care for a mouth guard.
4. Describe the steps to fabricate a sports mouth guard.
5. Define obstructive sleep apnea.
6. Describe the use of oral appliances to prevent snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.
7. Explain how preventive orthodontics prevent or eliminate the need for full orthodontics.
8. Identify how interceptive orthodontics correct malalignments of the dentition.
9. Describe how thermoplastic orthodontic aligners perform.
10. Identify how 3D printing is being utilized in dentistry.

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

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program has specific policies which apply to student conduct within the program. These policies may be implied or written. The course syllabi and the program manual are sources for specific student conduct policies for dental hygiene students at Amarillo College.

Your professionalism will be observed continuously while you're in the program.

Expected Student Behavior

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program requires all students to consistently demonstrate professionalism in every aspect of their education. These expectations apply throughout your time in the program and are detailed in the course syllabi and the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Manual. Policies may be written or implied and are essential for preparing students for clinical and professional success.

Professional Standards and Expectations

As a dental hygiene student, you are expected to maintain professional conduct at all times. This includes how you present yourself, look, speak, and act with classmates, instructors, and staff. Your professionalism is continuously observed and evaluated throughout the program.

Professional Appearance

As a representative of the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program, your appearance must reflect professionalism at all times. This includes:

• Wearing clean, well-fitting attire that complies with the program dress code
• Maintaining personal hygiene and a polished, professional presentation

Examples of prohibited items include, but are not limited to:

• House shoes, slippers, or inappropriate footwear
• Bare midriffs, low-cut tops, or revealing clothing
• Torn, stained, or excessively casual clothing such as hoodies and pajamas
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Hair must be neat, well-groomed, and a natural human hair color (no bright or unnatural shades).

Your appearance should promote confidence, safety, and respect. Failure to meet appearance standards may result in dismissal from class until corrected.

Interactions and Communications

• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally in all situations - whether with classmates, faculty, or staff.
• Manage disagreements and conflicts calmly and maturely.
• Use professional language in all verbal and written communication.

Ethics and Responsibility

• Take responsibility for your actions, clinical outcomes, academic performance, and professional growth.

Academic and Program Conduct

• Strive for excellence, going beyond the minimum requirements.
• Support a positive, collaborative learning environment.
• Maintain composure and professionalism under pressure, during conflicts, or when receiving constructive feedback.

If you disagree with a grade:

• Follow the official grievance procedure in the program manual and course syllabus.
• Maintain professionalism throughout the appeals process, including in all related communications.

Examples of Professional Behavior

• Consistently following the program's appearance and hygiene standards.
• Communicating respectfully and clearly with all individuals.
• Accepting feedback and taking accountability for your performance and decisions.
• Demonstrating resilience, professionalism, and maturity when facing challenges.
• Appropriately addressing grade concerns or program issues by following the formal grievance process as outlined in the program manual and course syllabus.

Unprofessional Behavior

Behaviors that are considered unprofessional and may lead to disciplinary action, including documentation through the college's Student Behavior Alert form, include but are not limited to:

• Repeated misconduct, such as chronic lateness, poor attitude, or failure to follow program rules.
• Any behavior that jeopardizes the health or safety of others.
• Failure to maintain appropriate hygiene or dress code.
• Disrespectful, unprofessional, or inappropriate communication in any form.
• Violating ethical guidelines.

Statement of Confidentiality

Confidentiality is the duty owed by dental hygiene professionals, including students enrolled in Dental Hygiene accredited programs, to protect the privacy of ALL patient information. Dental Hygiene professionals clearly have an obligation to keep MEDICAL and PERSONAL information about patients in the strictest confidence at all times. Unless disclosure is mandated by patient consent, statute, a duty to inform third parties, or special circumstances, dental hygiene professionals share a clear duty to maintain the confidentiality of ALL patient information.

Breach of duty to hold such information in the strictest confidence may cause liability for the individual student such as fines, imprisonment, and dismissal from the program. The American Dental Hygienists' Association has published the following statement which all dental hygiene professionals (including students) must always follow the "Code of Ethics."

"We respect the confidentiality of client information and relationships as a demonstration of the value we place  on individual autonomy. We acknowledge our obligation to justify any violation of confidence."

Mandatory Skills Building/Tutoring

To increase student success in the DHYG courses and assist students with difficulty understanding complex subject areas, any student who scores below a 75% on any exam (excluding the final) must complete a mandatory skills-building assignment before taking the next exam.

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 his/her 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 they are enrolled is directed to appeal in the following order to the:  (1)  Instructor (2)  Clinic Coordinator (3)  Department Chair/Program Director (4)  Dean of Health Sciences/Division Committee (5) Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs (6) Vice President of Academic Affairs and (7) College President in that order.

Grading Criteria

The final course grade will be computed as follows:

• Chapter Tests = 30%
• Lab Participation, Quizzes, Projects, and Competencies = 30%
• Midterm = 20%
• Comprehensive Final Exam = 20%

The following grade scale applies throughout this course:

A = 93 to 100%
B = 83 to 92%
C = 75 to 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.

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy

The tutoring for success policy applies to any student whose grades or performance falls below a minimum of 75% on any assigned assessment. The student will be required to complete mandatory remediation assigned by the instructor. A student will receive a remediation ticket with the instructor keeping the duplicate copy. Students will be required to complete a hand-written assignment that is to be turned in the following week. Remediation will not change the student's grade. The initial grade will stand. The purposes of remediation is to strengthen the content area failed. 

Faculty Assistance

All students are considered mature enough to seek assistance from the course director and to monitor their progress in meeting course requirements. If you have any questions concerning assignments, content, etc., or if a problem arises that warrants instructor help, plese do not hesitate to call or email me to schedule an appointment. I prefer to work with a schedule appointment to devote the time and attention necessary to meet each student's needs. 

Make-up Policy for Missed Work

If a student is absent on the day when a major 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 pm.
• The make-up work may earn a maximum of 80% of the original point value.

Electronic Testing Procedures: In this course, all tests will be administered electronically through the Blackboard platform. To facilitate a smooth testing process, students are required to bring their own fully charged tablets or laptops to each scheduled test. Testing will utilize the Respondus LockDown Browser, so please ensure it is installed on your device beforehand. It is imperative that all students submit their completed tests on Blackboard before closing their laptops and/or leaving the classroom. Failure to submit within the designated timeframe may result in a grade penalty. Upholding academic integrity is paramount in this course, and any form of cheating, plagiarism, or unauthorized collaboration during tests will be strictly addressed in accordance with the AC Rights and Responsibilities policies. By participating in electronic testing, students acknowledge and agree to comply with these procedures.

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 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

The Amarillo College Catalog

The Amarillo College Academic Catalog can be viewed at:  http://catalog.actx.edu. 

https://www.actx.edu/resources/

This website can be used to find those needed resources for Amarillo College students and their families.

Our goal is to provide as much information as possible for employees and students to be able to access campus and community resources when needed. There are many more resources in this community that are not listed on these pages. Some of these agencies and programs will change; so if you call and cannot get assistance, or cannot access a broken link, please contact me, Jordan Herrera, for more updated information.

The website will be updated as often as possible; therefore, most will be current. If the resources listed do not serve the needs you have or if you have any questions concerning this website, please call or email: Jordan Herrera, LMSW, Coordinator of Social Services, 806-371-5439, jordan@amarillocollege.com