Clinical Dental Hygienist III 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-2260-001 Clinical Dental Hygienist III

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: DHYG 1360

Course Description

A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional.

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; 12 clinic)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

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

• Fundamentals of Periodontal Instrumentation and Advanced Root Instrumentation, Jill Neild-Gehrig; Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 8th Edition. (Available in Hard Copy Text)
• Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist 14th Edition, Linda Boyd;  Mallonee,  Wyche (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• Student Workbook to Accompany Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist 14th Edition Linda Boyd; Mallonee,  Wyche
• Health Professional and Patient Interaction, Ruth Purtilo, Amy Haddad, Regina Doherty; Elsevier, Saunders Publisher (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• Ethical Dimensions in the Health Professions, Ruth B. Purtilo, Regina F. Doherty; Elsevier, Saunders Publisher (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office, Stanley F. Malamed, 8th Edition; Elsevier, Saunders Publisher (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Manual will be available to you in Blackboard.

Supplies

Technical Skills and Requirements

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

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 to the clinic every session.  Please have the battery charged and ready to go.  Students will need to 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

Other Supplies

1. You are responsible for bringing all required materials to every clinic session. This includes your typodont, all assigned instruments, and any needed supplies such as calculus. Failure to arrive fully prepared will result in a clinic error and may impact your grade or ability to participate in clinic activities. Bring what you need—every time. No exceptions.
2. Students may be required to print some materials.
3. Library Card for AC or city library
4. Flash Drive (1)

Student Performance

Course Meeting Days and Times

Clinic (Jones Hall Room 112)

• Monday 11:50pm - 3:20pm
• Tuesday  7:30am - 11:00am
• Wednesday 7:30am - 11:00am; 11:50pm - 3:20pm
• Thursday 7:30am - 11:00am
• Friday 7:30am - 11:00am

Morning Report (Rm 111) --Upcoming dates will be announced when scheduled. 

• Mondays 8:00am - 11:00pm 

Afternoon Report (Lab)

• Wednesdays 3:30pm-4:30pm

Clinic Manager:  Ashlie Lang, RDH, MS

In our clinical courses, the Clinic Manager is your main contact for anything related to the clinic. The manager oversees daily operations and can help you with clinic procedures and expectations. They also facilitate morning and afternoon reports. The Clinic Manager’s role is to provide guidance, organization, and support throughout your clinical experience.

Additional Faculty

• Lacey Briscoe, RDH, BS
• Kara Webb, RDH, BS
• Donna Cleere, RDH, M.Ed.
• Lynette Hayhurst, RDH, M.Ed.
• Monica Cryer, RDH, BS
• Charlene Mastick, RDH, BFA
• Carli Ogburn, RDH, BSDH
• Becca Fronk, RDH
• Rachel Rubalcaba, RDH
• Mitzi Leonard, RDH
• Haley Epperson, RDH
• John Sparkman, DMD
• Rick Dunham, DDS
• Folger Vallette, DDS
• Dennis Plunk, DDS

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 Blackboard Announcements page of the course and students will also be notified by email.

Clinical Dental Hygiene

Clinical Dental Hygiene is the portion of the dental hygiene curriculum focused on developing the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills necessary for the delivery of preventive, educational, and therapeutic services to the public.  The delivery of patient-centered comprehensive care is accomplished through adherence to the process of care:  assessment of patient needs, formulation of a dental hygiene diagnosis, planning for the prevention and treatment of oral disease, implementation of various dental hygiene interventions (services), and evaluation of both the patient and practitioner efforts and oral health outcomes.  The patient care experiences are required for all students in order to attain clinical competence and to complete the dental hygiene program.  This education is provided in the program's clinical facilities as defined in the Accreditation Standards and is supervised and evaluated by program faculty according to predetermined criteria.

End-of-Course Outcomes

A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. The instructor's primary role will be to function as a facilitator to aid the student through functional assessment and quality patient-centered treatment of clients. Clinic III is the bridging course from the academic clinical environment to enter into the profession. This competency-based clinical course uses the process of care model of assessment, dental hygiene diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Critical thinking skills, time management, and self-assessment are emphasized for the practical application of dental hygiene theory. Patient cases include medically compromised, advanced complex treatment cases, pediatric, and special needs populations. In the clinical setting, students will serve as patients for their classmates in the clinical setting, complete manikin exercises, treat all patients without discrimination, and attend all assigned rotations.

DHYG 2260 – Clinical Dental Hygiene III

Competency-to-Evaluation Mapping Matrix

The AC Dental Hygiene Program has clearly defined graduation competencies that establish the expected knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors students must demonstrate upon program completion. These competencies guide curriculum development and form the basis for instruction and assessment throughout the program.

Each course in the curriculum contributes to the development of these competencies. Learning activities are structured to progressively build knowledge and skill toward entry-level dental hygiene practice. Evaluation methods vary across courses and may include written exams, laboratory or clinical skill assessments, case-based evaluations, reflective writing, and formal competency testing.

This course evaluates the following graduation competencies:

• Program Competency #1: Demonstrate systematic planning and management of patient treatment by applying the Dental Hygiene Process of Care.
  • Measurement Method:
    • TalEval Clinical Evaluation
• Program Competency #3: Analyze and interpret assessment data.
  • Measurement Method:
    • TalEval Clinical Evaluation
• Program Competency #6: Synthesize information in a scientific and effective manner.
  • Measurement Method:
    • Tobacco Cessation Skill Evaluation
• Program Competency #8: Demonstrate professionalism and ethics.
  • Measurement Methods:
    • Chapter Assessments: Ethics and Professionalism
• Program Competency #9: Demonstrate competence and preparation for boards.
  • Measurement Method:
    • Clinical Mock Board (Skill Evaluation)

Method of Instruction

In the clinical setting, the faculty-to-student ratio does not exceed 1:5. Individualized feedback is provided both verbally and through documentation in Upscale and Blackboard. Student performance is evaluated using direct observation through process performance evaluations and indirect observation through end-product evaluations.

Morning and Afternoon Report
These clinic forums are designed to provide a space for discussing clinical concerns and introducing additional procedures, techniques, and materials. Attendance is mandatory—if you miss Morning or Afternoon Report, you will be counted absent for the entire clinic day.
Being present when roll is called is required; arriving late will result in an absence.
Your participation is encouraged—this is a valuable opportunity to ask questions and learn from one another.

Clinical Dental Hygiene:  Primary Educational Goals

Clinical dental hygiene experience provides preventive and therapeutic care according to the process of care: 

• Assessment 
• Dental hygiene diagnosis
• Planning
• Implementation 
• Evaluation
• Documentation (including electronic health records)

This requires critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making skills that guide the provision of dental hygiene care within a focused scope of practice.  Upon the completion of the clinical curriculum, the student will be able to:

• Apply the process of care to preventive and therapeutic oral health management to a diverse patient population.
• Assess and analyze objective and subjective patient findings to formulate an evidence-based, patient-centered dental hygiene diagnosis.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate intervention strategies that will promote and maintain oral health, including oral self-care behaviors.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and skill in applying dental hygiene methodology of care.
• Apply the principles of professional and ethical behavior in providing care to individuals of all populations.

Special Learning Objectives

1. A comprehensive collection of data and assess a comprehensive health history, including social history.
2. Perform and record extraoral and intraoral examinations, clinical and radiographic assessment of the periodontium and dentition, and assessment of occlusion. 
3. Assess the need for, expose, develop, evaluate, and interpret dental radiographs to support the clinical examination.
4. Expose, assess, and transmit intraoral photography.
5. Formulate a dental hygiene diagnosis and supportive dental hygiene treatment plan.
6. Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate a dental hygiene treatment plan for the prevention and/or treatment plan for the prevention of oral diseases.
7. Assess the need for and perform a periodontal risk assessment and initial and supportive therapies.
8. Assess the need for and perform therapeutic hand and ultrasonic periodontal debridement therapies.
9. Perform care and maintenance of procedures for dental implants.
10. Assess the need for and perform extrinsic stain removal procedures.
11. Assess the need for and apply adjunctive topical chemotherapeutic and controlled released agents.
12. Assess the need for and apply pain and anxiety management strategies.
13. Assess the caries risk and plan appropriate interventions and therapies.
14. Assess the need for and application of professional topical fluorides and/or self-applied fluoride
15. Apply principles of nutritional and/or tobacco cessation counseling to the management of oral and systemic health.
16. Assess the need for and place pit and fissure sealants.
17. Assess, plan, and perform patient oral self-care education.
18. Apply standard precautions for the prevention of disease transmission.
19. Follow all state and federal regulatory requirements when rendering patient care.
20. Apply the principles of comprehensive record-keeping.
21. Apply principles of professional and ethical behavior.
22. Apply principles of evidence-based decision-making.
23. Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills when providing patient care.
24. Demonstrate professional communication skills in all aspects of patient care that includes interacting with diverse populations and other members of the healthcare team.
25. Demonstrate concern and understanding of a variety of patient needs to be based on overall health, oral health, cultural, social, and economic circumstances.
26. Recognize those patients whose medical, physical, psychological, or social situations make it necessary to modify normal dental routines in order to provide dental treatment for that individual.  These individuals include, but are not limited to, people with developmental disabilities, complex medical problems, and significant physical limitations.
27. Obtain informed consent by discussing with the patient his/her oral health findings, goals, and comprehensive treatment needs.  Patients that are accepted for dental hygiene care must be advised of the scope of dental hygiene care available in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Clinic.
28. Recommend a re-care schedule for continued supportive care.
29. Recommend referral for additional assessment and/or treatment.
30. Assess overall patient satisfaction with the care provided.
31. Self-assess ability to perform dental hygiene services at a high standard of care.
32. Value patient confidentiality and patient rights according to HIPAA guidelines.
33. Evaluate the relevancy and accuracy of new information in order to provide evidence-based client care.
34. Accept constructive criticism and peer review as a learning experience that contributes to professional knowledge and growth.
35. Apply basic, dental, and behavioral sciences to clinical practice.
36. Use the dental hygiene process of care to render comprehensive preventative oral health services.
37. Demonstrate appropriate time management strategies when rendering dental hygiene services to patients.
38. Demonstrate clinical emergency medical protocol procedures.
39. Comply with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for the prevention of disease transmission during the rendering of dental hygiene services to patients.
40. Provide specialized treatment that includes preventative and therapeutic services designed to achieve and maintain oral health and assist in helping the patient formulate and achieve oral health goals.
41. Evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of dental hygiene services and make modifications as needed.
42. Demonstrate accurate, consistent, and complete documentation skills.
43. Evaluate the effectiveness of sterilization procedures, and identify and demonstrate the need for accurate documentation, i.e., biological indicators.
44. Develop awareness and sensitivity for the scope of health and dental health needs in the community.
45. Provide dental hygiene services to an under-served population
46. Observe and appreciate the role of dental support staff in managing patient communication and care.
47. Develop an appreciation for the different roles and responsibilities of each person within private practice and how they work together for the successful management of the office.
48. Recognize, experience, and understand the front office/receptionist's role and function in the dental setting, including phone skills, greeting patients, scheduling, and using Eaglesof and Operadds to create treatment plans. 
49. Complete HESI modules and examinations.

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 that 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.

Professional Standards

All dental hygiene students are expected to demonstrate professionalism in behavior, manner, and judgment while in the dental hygiene program. The area of professionalism includes appearance, asepsis, patient management, peer, faculty, and staff interaction, and documentation. Guidelines for professionalism and professional appearances are discussed in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Manual.  Professionalism will be evaluated on a continual basis throughout the program.

Students will exhibit professional maturity and an acceptable level of clinical judgment as determined by the clinical faculty. Unprofessional behavior will be documented in written form by the faculty to the Program Director. Unprofessional behavior may be defined as a continual pattern of misconduct and/or an egregious act that endangers the health of the patients, students, faculty, and/or College. Egregious acts also include violations of the Texas Dental Hygiene Practice Act and falsification of patient records and/or faculty signatures. Documentation may also include reporting via the Amarillo College Student Behavior Alert form with the college.

Students must be competent in applying the principles of ethical reasoning, ethical decision-making, and professional responsibility as they pertain to patient care. Dental hygienists should understand and practice ethical behavior consistent with the professional code of ethics throughout their educational experiences. Below are representative examples of professional standards which are not inclusive:

• Students are concerned with excellence in learning rather than just meeting minimal criteria.
• Students maintain composure, dealing with conflict in a constructive way.
• Students exhibit an attitude of respect for classmates, faculty, and staff. 
• If a student has a conflict with a grade given by the instructor, the student must follow the outlined grievance procedure. 
• Faculty will not change a grade given to a student from another faculty member.

Safety: Individual Responsibility

This course supports Amarillo College policies regarding responsibility for a safe environment.

Amarillo College complies with environmental, health, and safety regulations and therefore requires that all AC employees, students, and visitors comply to maintain a safe environment:

• Report hazardous conditions and safety concerns immediately to their supervisors, instructors, staff, and/or emergency management personnel, as appropriate.
• Abide by safe practices and procedures established by the College.
• Adhere to and cooperate fully with all local, state, and federal regulations concerning environmental, health, and safety issues.
• Take action to resolve safe workplace issues when appropriate.

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 have 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."

Instructor Help and Student Participation

• You must seek faculty input regarding your performance so that you may:
  • Gain confidence in your performance
  • Identify problem areas and determine methods for correcting deficiencies
  • Attain competency in your clinical skills
• All students are considered mature enough to seek faculty assistance and to monitor their progress.
• All students are expected to meet with the Program Director if they have any questions or difficulties in this course. The faculty is committed to supporting your success; please remember that you are the only person who can make us aware that you need assistance.

Advising

• Advising each semester with the Program Director is designed to provide guidance, support, and clear expectations for students and instructors. These policies ensure that students make informed decisions about their academic and professional goals while progressing successfully through the program.
• Mandatory advising sessions help track students' progress, identify potential issues, provide timely support and guidance, and assist students with any barriers that have presented in their process. Clinical experiences will be reviewed, as well as academic progress. Documentation of this session will be kept in the student record, including referrals to appropriate support services, such as tutoring or counseling.
• Attendance at an advising session with the Program Director during the middle of each course is mandatory. The Program Director will determine the timing of the session and send you an email invitation. It's essential to either confirm your attendance by accepting the invitation or provide a valid reason if you're unable to attend.  To make the most of the advising session, you can prepare by:
  • Compiling a list of inquiries you might have.
  • Establishing daily and weekly objectives for advancing through the program.
  • Evaluating your progress toward these objectives.
  • Identifying any obstacles hindering your goal achievement.
• Notably, failure to uphold these appointments will result in a deduction of two points from your final clinical course grade for every instance during the semester.

Mentoring

Clinical instructors play a crucial role in providing mentorship, guidance, and hands-on training to dental hygiene students. They bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, helping students develop the skills and competencies required to become successful dental hygienists.

The essential roles and responsibilities of mentoring:

• Supervision and Guidance: Oversee students' practical experiences in dental hygiene clinics.
• Skill Development: Teach instrumentation, dental procedures, radiography, patient assessment, and hygiene techniques.
• Patient Interaction: Instruct students on effective communication and patient interaction skills.
• Critical Thinking: Encourage students to make decisions based on patient assessments and treatment plans.
• Ethics and Professionalism: Instill professionalism, ethics, and infection control practices.
• Problem-Solving: Challenge students with real-world dental cases to enhance problem-solving abilities.
• Feedback and Evaluation: Provide constructive feedback on clinical performance and set improvement goals.
• Adaptation to Changes: Keep students updated on industry trends and evolving dental practices.
• Student Support: Offer emotional support and guidance throughout the educational journey.
• Role Modeling: Demonstrate professionalism, technical skills, and patient-centered care.

Overall, clinical instructors in a dental hygiene program play a vital role in shaping the future dental hygienists' clinical skills, professionalism, and overall patient care abilities. They contribute to the education and development of well-rounded and competent dental hygiene professionals.

Assigning clinic instructors as mentors to students in a dental hygiene program is a vital process that contributes to student success and growth. At the beginning of each semester, students will be assigned a new clinic instructor mentor. This consistent practice ensures that students benefit from diverse perspectives and guidance throughout their program.

Email Instructions for Scheduling a Mentor Meeting:

• Express that you'd like to schedule a meeting to discuss progress, seek advice, or address questions.
• Offer a selection of dates and times for the meeting.
• Ensure your proposed times consider both your availability and your mentor's office hours.
• Flexibility increases the chances of finding a suitable time.
• Politely request confirmation of the meeting time and convey appreciation for their time and guidance.

By following these steps, you'll effectively request a mentor meeting through email while being clear, respectful, and considerate of your mentor's schedule.

Mandatory Clinical Remediation Policy

To support student success in the clinical environment and strengthen competency in essential skills, any student who scores below 75% on a clinical evaluation, such as a patient care experience, radiograph assessment, process evaluation, mock board, or skills-based assessment, will be required to complete a mandatory clinical remediation assignment. You will receive an email notification outlining your remediation plan, required steps, and the deadline for completion.

Policy Guidelines:

• Students must schedule a meeting with their clinical instructor to review performance and identify areas for improvement.
• A targeted remediation plan will be assigned during the meeting, which may include practice sessions, written reflections, or additional assessments.
• Completion of the remediation assignment is required by the deadline given. Failure to complete the assignment on time will result in a grade of zero, and clinical privileges may be revoked until the assignment is satisfactorily completed.

This policy ensures early support, reinforces critical clinical competencies, and promotes safe and effective patient care.

Program Resources
As a student in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program, you are expected to be familiar with and refer to the Clinic Manual, Program Handbook, and the Appendix to the Clinic Manual throughout your clinical education.

• The Clinic Manual outlines all clinic policies, procedures, scheduling protocols, grading criteria, and expectations related to patient care, infection control, radiology, and medical management.
• The Program Handbook includes academic and professional expectations, ethical standards, student responsibilities, remediation policies, and graduation/licensure requirements.
• The Appendix provides detailed rubrics, forms, and evaluation criteria for clinic rotations, radiographs, skill assessments, and population-based competencies.

These documents are essential resources for understanding clinic operations, evaluation standards, and your responsibilities as a student clinician.

You can access all these materials in Blackboard under the Clinic Resources folder. Students are responsible for reviewing and following the policies outlined in these documents.

Course Failure-Remediation Policy

If you fail to attain the required minimum requirements for each Clinic and have less than three absences during the semester, an I (Incomplete) may be given. The "I" (Incomplete) will be removed, and a grade of "C" will be given for the course after you have completed the required work. If an "I" is received in the first (spring) semester, it must be removed by the end of the first four weeks of the next second (summer) semester. If an "I" (incomplete) is received in the summer session, it must be removed during the fall session before you can register for the subsequent academic year. If you fail to remove the "I" grade from your record in the allotted time, a grade of "F" will be posted automatically. No, "I" s can be given the final semester before graduation.

Cell Phone Policy

Cell phones including smart watches are not allowed in the dental hygiene clinic, sterilization, or office areas. Cell phone use is only permitted outside clinic hours and outside the clinic, once you have clocked out in Go Track. If a student is found with a cell phone in hand, in a uniform pocket, or anywhere in the clinic bay during clinic hours, 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. The supervisor will then notify the student. If you have a personal situation that requires you to have your cell phone, you must see the Lead Instructor before clinic begins. Your children will not be allowed in the Clinic.  Please, no exceptions.

Upscale & Blackboard

Students can track clinical progress and communicate with faculty through Upscale (dental hygiene grading software) and Blackboard (Amarillo College’s learning management system).

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. Faculty will also correspond via email and announcements on Amarillo College Blackboard.

Bulletin Board

First and second-year dental hygiene students have designated areas on a common 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

Emergency Management: In the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Clinic, we have medical emergency management procedures and safety policies.  Please refer to the program manual for further detail regarding these procedures and policies.

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)  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 (7) College President in that order.

Grading Criteria

General Clinic Guidelines

Please see the Grading Criteria in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Clinic Manual Regarding Upscale.  

Although the Department of Dental Hygiene maintains a system for recalling patients and providing maintenance oral hygiene care, students will be responsible for recruiting new patients to the Dental Hygiene Clinic to meet the student's needs for various dental hygiene requirements.  Additionally, students will be expected to recruit and maintain a list of potential patients who are available and willing to make an appointment on short notice.  Students will also be required to select a patient who meets the criteria for CRDTS or another regional clinical board to pursue licensure to practice dental hygiene.

• Each student must understand the necessity of taking a proactive and responsible role in obtaining his/her education.  Your signature on the "syllabus documentation form" is evidence that you understand your responsibility in recruiting the type(s) of patients you will need to complete requirements/competencies to graduate from the Dental Hygiene Program at Amarillo College.
• In a competency-based clinical system, dental hygiene students are expected to demonstrate the mastery of skills and a progressive continuum toward entry-level competence.  Once you have demonstrated mastery of skill, you are expected to maintain that level of mastery.  Each skill assessment serves as the foundation for your continued skill development.  Therefore, your maintenance of the base skills will be evaluated on a continual basis.
• All Screening, Radiograph and Rotation Assessments are due to the instructor by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday. 
• Sealant placement will be graded as either satisfactory or unsatisfactory. 
• Radiographs will be graded as outlined in the Program Manual and must be critiqued and submitted by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday.  An instructor must grade all radiographs. 
• Clinic requirements must be completed by the final clinic day of clinic.  A student who does not complete all clinic requirements in Clinic III by the last day of clinic will receive an (I) incomplete.
• The course will also consist of clinical assessments, quizzes and other online/computer assignments.  Quizzes may or may not be announced in advance.  All grades will be counted and will not be dropped.
• Critical Errors may drop a student's grade.  Examples of critical errors may include breach of infection control, critical Medical History error, dismissing or re-appointing a patient without faculty approval, unprofessional conduct toward a patient, student, or faculty/staff member, a breach of confidentiality, scheduling a fictitious patient(s) or phone number (s), canceling or moving a patient without the patient's permission and or faculty member, failure to accept a patient assignment from the front office supervisor or faculty, clocking in or out of the clinic/lab for a classmate.

Minimum Number of Successful (75% or greater) Learning Experiences Required for Clinic III: 

Periodontal Maintenance of Oral and Perio Status (must be a moderate or severe periodontal classification.)  Complete the Perio Exam in Eagle Soft which includes noting all periodontal readings, bleeding, suppuration, furcation involvement, mobility, clinical attachment loss (CAL), clinical descriptors, and periodontal diagnosis. See Rubric in Blackboard.

Hand Instrumentation Experience involves utilizing hand instrumentation only to remove calculus and stain.  Utilizing hand instruments and not combining the ultrasonic inserts is a learning experience allowing the clinician to focus on the correct use of diverse instruments.  You will be required to have 1 learning experiences in Clinic III, with one experience on a A or B patient.  See Rubric in Blackboard.

Rapid A Competency is completing 2 A patients in one appointment time.  This competency aims to assess the needs of these patients and provide thorough care while managing time efficiently.  You will be required to complete 1 Competencies for Clinic III, including 2 patients that will be graded and count towards your A patient requirements.  See Rubric in Blackboard

Mock Board Patient Experience with CRDTS Exam Criteria. This patient must qualify for CRDTS criteria to count toward competency.  In order for you to count the Mock Board Patient Experience as a competency, the patient MUST meet Board Criteria and the student must achieve a minimum of 75% on the skill evaluation.  If your grade falls below a 75% on the Mock Board Exam, you will be required to remediate on a typodont and/or a clinical patient (preferably the same patient) by the end of the semester.  (The Remediation must be done and documented by December 3, 2025)

Rubrics Available for the following Clinical Assessment in Blackboard.

• Arestin® Clinical Assessment
• Ultrasonic Area Specific Inserts (Right/Left) Assessment
• Oral Irrigation Clinical Assessment
• Perio Maintenance Clinical Assessment
• Rapid A Skill Evaluation
• Hand Instrumentation Evaluation (A or B patient)
• EMS Air Flow® Clinical Assessment                                                                

Tobacco Cessation Competency is a video presentation that is due December 1, 2025, the rubric and the instructions are in Blackboard under content. 

Ethics, Professionalism, and Medical Emergency Quizzes Due Date: December 1, 2025. 

AC Dental Hygiene Rotation Assignments:  (Rotations will be evaluated in Blackboard) Rubrics Attached 

• Office Assistant-Evaluated by Ms. Rubalcaba
• Sterilization-Evaluated by Mrs.Leonard

Screening Rotations will be Evaluated in Upscale. Your Pano, 4BWX, and 2 PAs will count towards your requirements.   See SCREENING Goals, Responsibilities, and Rubric under CONTENT in Blackboard.

FINAL GRADE DETERMINATION

The Clinical Grade is obtained successfully by completing procedures in the following categories:

• Care Assessment Grade (includes Screenings) – 75%
• Radiographs – 10%
• Process Evaluations – 5%
• Quizzes, Rotations, and Special Assignments – 10%

Grading Breakdown – Where to Find Your Grades

Grades Tracked in Upscale – 90%

These will be entered and monitored in Upscale:

• Care Assessment Grade (includes Screenings) – 75%
• Radiographs – 10%
• Process Evaluations – 2%

Grades Tracked in Blackboard – 10%

These will be submitted and graded through Blackboard:

• Quizzes, Rotations, and Special Assignments
  • Rotation evaluations – 2%
  • Quizzes and Mock Board and Tobacco Cessation assignment – 6%
  • Reflective Journal – 2%

The final course grade will be computed as follows:

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. All students are considered mature enough to seek faculty assistance and to monitor their own progress in meeting course requirements. Students who continually fall below the minimal level of 75% on graded material should seek assistance from the course faculty for remediation.

Make-Up Policy

Students are required to make up all missed quizzes and assignments.  A zero will be given for each missed quiz or online assignment. 

Radiographic Procedures:

Images must be critiqued on the same day as the appointment and are due by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday. All images must be submitted for grading.

Undiagnostic Images:

If your Panoramic Image is undiagnostic, you will receive a grade of 0 for that image. Please see your instructor for assistance with the Re-take.

Retakes:

The student must have the instructor's permission to retake an image. In Clinic III, students who are given permission to retake an image will lose ½ of the point value for each retake.   

Horizontal Bitewing & 2 Anterior PA Radiographs (Competency Level of 75% or above) Radiographs will be graded as outlined in the Program Manual. Radiographs must be critiqued on the same day as the appointment and are due by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday.

Vertical BWX Series (7 Radiographs in the series) (Competency Level of 75% or above) Radiographs will be graded as outlined in the Program Manual.  Radiographs must be critiqued on the same day as the appointment and are due by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday.

Panoramic Image (Competency Level of 75% or above)  Radiographs will be graded as outlined in the Program Manual.  Radiographs must be critiqued on the same day as the appointment and are due by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday.   

Full Mouth Series (Competency Level of 75% or above)  Radiographs will be graded as outlined in the Program Manual.   Radiographs must be critiqued on the same day as the appointment and are due by 5pm Monday-Thursday and 12pm on Friday. 

It is the students responsibility to email your instructor and advise them that you have completed your self-assessment and are ready for them to evaluate your images. 

Screening Radiographs

 Radiographs must be critiqued and self-assessed by the end of the appointment.

Journaling: You will be responsible for journaling after every assigned clinical session.  Journal assignments for the week will be due each Friday at noon.  The rubric for journaling is in Blackboard.  Journaling is mandatory in this course and will go towards your final grade.

Patient No-Show and Short-Notice Cancellation Policy for DH Students
Purpose:
To promote student accountability in patient communication, scheduling, and clinic preparedness while managing patient no-shows and short-notice cancellations efficiently.

1. Patient Communication & Confirmation

• Students are responsible for confirming all patient appointments at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled clinic session.
• All reasonable efforts (e.g., phone, text, email) should be made to ensure patients are aware of and committed to their scheduled appointment.
• Students are strongly encouraged to have a backup patient ready in the event of a last-minute cancellation or no-show.

2. No-Show Tracking and Limits

• Students are allowed up to three no-shows per clinic semester without academic penalty.
• The office supervisor will document all no-shows in the patient records, and these occurrences will also be tracked as downtime in Upscale.
• After the third no-show, the student will receive a 1% deduction from their total course grade for each additional occurrence.

3. Short-Notice Cancellations and Rescheduling Policy

• If a patient no-shows or cancels within 24 hours of their appointment, that patient will not be rescheduled with the same student.
• These patients will be moved to the extra patient column and assigned to an available student on the day of their next appointment.
• This is to preserve limited clinic time and ensure all students can meet clinical requirements.

4. Student Responsibilities and Consequences

• Students must clearly communicate to patients the importance of keeping scheduled appointments and the impact of late cancellations or no-shows.
• Students may not reschedule a no-show or short-notice cancellation with the same patient without the clinic manager's permission. Doing so will result in a 1% deduction from their total course grade for poor patient management.
• Students should explain to patients that repeated missed appointments may limit their ability to be seen in the future.

Rationale:
This policy is intended to reinforce the value of professional responsibility, time management, and patient care. It ensures that students understand the importance of planning ahead, proactively confirming appointments, and managing their clinical schedules effectively—critical skills for success in real-world dental hygiene practice.

Attendance

Clinic Attendance Policy
Regular attendance is essential for satisfactory progress and achievement. It is the student’s responsibility to attend all scheduled class and clinic sessions in accordance with course and program requirements. Students are required to complete 100% of assigned clinical hours. Clinical experience is a critical part of the Dental Hygiene Program, and any absences may jeopardize successful completion of course outcomes. Failure to report an absence prior to the clinic session may result in failure of the course. These guidelines are in place to ensure efficient clinic operations and to support students in their clinical training.

1. Absences & Make-Up Policy

• Students must make up the missed clinic session at the discretion of the Clinic Manager.
• Missed sessions may not be made up during a regularly scheduled clinic rotation.
• The Clinic Manager will determine the type of experience that qualifies as make-up time.
• The maximum grade a student can earn for a make-up clinic session is 85%.
• If a student misses more than three clinic sessions, their record will be reviewed by the Dental Hygiene Attendance Committee, which may result in disciplinary action, up to and including failure of the course.

2. Reporting Absences

    Students must report all clinical absences in advance to the following:

• Clinic Manager: (Ms. Lang)
  • Office Manager (Ms. Rubalcaba)
  • Clinic Supervisor (Mrs. Leonard)
  • Clinic Instructor (Mrs. Ogburn)

3. Tardiness & Early Departures

• Students who arrive late may be dismissed from clinic, as punctuality is essential to ensure safe and effective patient care.
• Leaving clinic early without prior approval is treated the same as a late arrival.

4. Arriving Late & Leaving Early will result in the following point deductions:

• 1 to 15 minutes late/early: -5 points from session grade
• 16 to 30 minutes late/early: -10 points from session grade
• Over 30 minutes late/early: Counted as an absence and subject to the absence policy

5.  Morning & Afternoon Report

• Student attendance is mandatory for Assigned Morning Reports on Mondays from 8-11 and Afternoon Report every Wednesday from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.

• Being late or absent for Morning or Afternoon Report will result in a point deduction in Upscale or be treated as a clinic absence.

6.  Pefect Attendance Bonus

• Students who maintain perfect attendance (no absences, tardies, early departures, or clock-in/out errors) and have a minimum average of 75% in clinic will receive 1 bonus point added to their final clinic grade.

Attendance Tracking through GoTrak
Students are responsible for clocking in and out independently.

Clinic Arrival and Departure

• Login Requirements: 
  • Students must scan their student ID at the front office computers no later than 30 minutes before the start of their clinic session and log out no earlier than the scheduled end time.
  • Morning session: Login by 7:30 am and Logout no earlier than 11:00 am
  • Afternoon session: Login by 11:50 am and Logout no earlier than 3:20 pm 
• Technical Errors:
  • Students must promptly report any technical issues with GoTrak to Mrs. Ogburn to request corrections.
• Failure to Clock- In or Out:
  • Results in a 10-point deduction in Upscale for that session.

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