Dental Hygiene Care II Syllabus for 2026-2027
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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 .

Statement on State-Authorized Courses at Amarillo College

For-credit academic and workforce education courses offered at Amarillo College are limited to the course options available in the statewide inventory for two-year public institutions. Courses in the state-authorized lower-division Academic Course Guide Manual and Workforce Education Course Manual have specific descriptions that prescribe course content and may include specific student learning outcomes. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) maintains and regularly updates these manuals. Amarillo College faculty and leaders ensure that these courses are aligned with THECB guidelines and evaluated based on student performance outcomes. Students enrolled in these courses are expected to engage with and learn course content. According to the AC Board of Regents Policy Manual, "faculty members are entitled to academic freedom in the conduct of research and teaching and are tasked with the associated responsibilities" (DGC). Students are entitled to academic freedom in the classroom, as well, and faculty "must not attempt to force on students a personal viewpoint and must at all times allow diversity of opinion" (Amarillo College Academic Affairs Manual).

Course

DHYG-2231-001 Dental Hygiene Care II

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: DHYG 2201

Course Description

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

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

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

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

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

Hours

(2 sem hrs 1 lec 4 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

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

• Wilkins' Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist and access code for Navigate 2 by Linda D. Boyd, Lisa F. Mallonee, and Charlotte J.Wyche, 14th edition, Jones & Bartlettt Learning, 2023.
• Case Studies in Dental Hygiene by Evelyn M. Thompson, 3rd edition, Pearson, 2013.
• Applied Pharmacology for the Dental Hygienist by Elena Bablenis Haveles, Elsevier, 2024.

This course is taught in a lecture/lab format and uses a variety of instructional methods to support student learning and achievement of the course goals and objectives. Instructional methods may include lectures, class discussions, collaborative learning activities, demonstrations, and case studies.

Course materials, announcements, assignments, and other instructional resources will be provided through Blackboard Ultra. Students are expected to regularly access Blackboard Ultra and complete assigned activities by the designated deadlines.

Laboratory assignments and learning activities reinforce course concepts and give students opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills. These activities may include continuing education courses, homework assignments, student presentations, laboratory projects, and other instructor-assigned learning activities. Students are expected to come prepared for each class and actively participate in both lecture and laboratory activities.

Supplies

Computer and Technology Requirements

Computer use is integral to this course. Students must bring a tablet or laptop to every class session. Please ensure your device is fully charged and ready to use before class.

Students must have the Respondus LockDown Browser installed and functioning on their computer by the first day of class. Students are responsible for ensuring that their device meets the necessary technical requirements and is ready for use during class activities and examinations.

For technical assistance, please utilize the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) Student Help Center:

CTL Student Help Center
Phone: 806-371-5992
Email: ctlstudenthelp@actx.edu

Please address any technical issues as soon as possible to avoid disruptions to your coursework.

Communication

The best way to contact me is through your student email in Blackboard. I will check my email Monday through Friday first thing in the morning and throughout the day as time allows.

I will respond to emails within 24 hours during the week. I will answer emails received over the weekend the following Monday morning.

When communicating with faculty, staff, and peers, please remember to practice professional netiquette. Use respectful, professional, and appropriate language in all electronic communications.

Other Supplies

Students are responsible for obtaining and maintaining access to the following supplies and resources as needed for the course:

1. Library Access: Access to the Amarillo College (AC) Library and/or a local public library.
2. Computer and Internet Access: Reliable access to a computer, the internet, and a printer. Students may be required to print course materials, assignments, or other documents.
3. Printing Supplies: Adequate printer ink or toner and paper as needed to complete course requirements.
4. Additional Materials: Other supplies or materials may be required as needed throughout the course. Students will be notified of any additional requirements in advance whenever possible.

Student Performance

Course Meeting Day and  Time

The course will meet on Thursday afternoon from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM in Jones Hall Room 123.

Changes to the Syllabus and the Course

The instructor reserves the right to change the syllabus or course as needed to support the course goals and objectives. Students will be notified of any changes through the Blackboard Announcements page and, when appropriate, by email. Students are responsible for regularly checking Blackboard and their student email for updates and ensuring they are aware of any changes that may affect the course.

Participation, Instructor Help, and Tutoring

Learning activities in this course are designed to enhance your understanding of course concepts and provide opportunities to apply what you have learned. Students are expected to come prepared for each class session, actively participate in learning activities, and engage appropriately in class discussions and exercises.

As a college student, you are responsible for taking an active role in your learning. You are encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification, and request assistance from the instructor whenever you need additional support. Please do not hesitate to ask questions during class or communicate with the instructor when you need help understanding course material or completing assignments. Seeking assistance is an important part of the learning process and is encouraged throughout the course.

Tutoring and Academic Support

Students are encouraged to utilize the departmental tutor as an additional resource for academic support and reinforcement of course concepts. The instructor may require a student to participate in tutoring when additional academic support is needed, including when a student is struggling with course content, assignments, examinations, or overall course performance. When tutoring is assigned, attendance and participation are mandatory and count as part of the student's academic responsibilities. Students are expected to come prepared for tutoring sessions and actively participate in the recommended activities. The departmental tutor is available to help students strengthen their understanding of course material; however, tutoring does not replace attending class, preparing for class, completing assignments, or seeking assistance from the instructor.

End-of-Course Outcomes (Workforce Education Course Manual:  WECM)

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

Specific Course Outcomes:

Review of Special Needs and Medical Conditions

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

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

2. Outline the current prophylactic regimens for dental procedures.

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

4. Outline the current adult blood pressure classifications.

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

Chapter 55:  The Patient with Cancer

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

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

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

3. Describe common oral complications secondary to cancer treatment.

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

Review of Antineoplastic Drugs ( Pharmacology Text)

1.  Review antineoplastic agents and summarize their use, mechanisms of action, and classification.

2.  Describe several adverse drug effects associated with antineoplastic agents.

3.  Discuss dental implications of patients planning to take or actively taking antineoplastic drugs. 

Chapter 56:  The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Patient

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 57: The Patient with a Seizure Disorder

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

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

2. Describe the etiology of seizure disorders.

3. Discuss the clinical manifestations of seizure disorders.

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

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

Review Chapter 14:  Drugs for the Treatment of Seizure Disorders ( Pharmacology Text)

1.  Review drug therapy of patients with epilepsy and describe the general adverse reaction to antiepileptic agents.

2.  Review the pharmacologic effects, adverse reactions, and drug interactions of the main antiepileptics - valproate, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, carbamazepine, and phenytoin.

Chapter 58: The Patient with a Mental Health Disorder

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

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

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

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

Review Chapter 9:  Antianxiety Agents ( Pharmacology Text)

1.  Review the pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, pharmacologic effects, adverse reactions, drug interactions, medical uses, and dental relevance of benzodiazepines and barbiturates.

2.  Review the name and mechanism of action of  the non-benzodiazepine-non-barbiturate sedative-hypnotics and the non-benzodiazepine-non-barbiturate receptor agonists. 

3.  Review the workings of the centrally acting muscle relaxants and how they are used.

4.  Review the general precautions about which the dental practitioner should be aware with the use of antianxiety agents.

Chapter 59:  The Patient with a Substance-Related Disorder

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review Chapter 23:  Substance Use Disorders ( Pharmacology Text)

1.  Review the types of central nervous system depressants that are commonly abused, and outline the typical pattern of abuse, treatment, adverse reactions, management of overdose and withdrawal, and dental treatment implications.

2.  Review several types of central nervous system stimulants that are commonly abused.

3.  Review psychedelic hallucinogens and recognize the symptoms produced by their use.

Chapter 60:  The Patient with a Respiratory Disease

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

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

2. Differentiate between upper and lower respiratory diseases.

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

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

Review Chapter 17:  Drugs for the Treatment of Respiratory Disorders and Allergic Rhinitis (Pharmacology Text)

1.  Review the mechanisms of action of several types of drugs used to treat respiratory diseases.

2.  Review the types of drugs used to treat respiratory infections.

3.  Review the dental implications, pharmacologic effects, adverse reactions, and toxicity of antihistamines.

4.  Review the dental implications, pharmacologic effects, and adverse reactions of the intranasal corticosteroids. 

Chapter 62:  The Patient with a Blood Disorder

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

1. Describe the major types of blood disorders.

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

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

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

Chapter 63: The Patient with an Autoimmune Disease

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

1. Describe how autoimmune diseases affect the immune system.

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

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

Chapter 14:  Family Violence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Renal Failure (Chronic Kidney Disease)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Describe advanced instrumentation techniques.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Case Studies in Dental Hygiene

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

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

3. Understand the disease process.

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

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

6. Assess patient characteristics and interpret radiographs.

8. Plan and manage dental hygiene care.

9. Perform periodontal procedures.

10. Use preventive agents.

11. Provide supportive treatment services.

12. Demonstrate professional responsibility.                                           

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

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

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

Expected Student Behavior

Professionalism and Student Conduct

Program Handbook and Student Responsibilities

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Handbook contains the complete policies, procedures, standards, and expectations for students enrolled in the Dental Hygiene Program. The handbook provides detailed information regarding professional conduct, appearance, attendance, academic and clinical expectations, communication, ethical responsibilities, disciplinary procedures, grievance procedures, and other program requirements.

Because the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Handbook explains these policies in detail, each course syllabus does not repeat them in full. Students are responsible for reading, understanding, and following all policies and procedures outlined in the current Program Handbook, as well as the policies specific to this course.

The policies and expectations outlined in the Program Handbook are part of this course's requirements, even when they are not specifically repeated in the syllabus. Students are expected to consult the Program Handbook whenever they have questions regarding program policies, procedures, or professional expectations.

Students should refer to the current Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Handbook for complete information regarding program policies and expectations. If a question or concern arises regarding a program policy, students should consult the handbook and seek clarification from the appropriate faculty member or program administrator.

Failure to read or review the Program Handbook does not relieve a student of the responsibility to know and follow the policies contained within it. 

Your professionalism will be observed, assessed, and evaluated continuously throughout the program.

Expected Student Behavior

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program requires students to demonstrate professionalism consistently in all aspects of their education. Professional behavior is expected in the classroom, laboratory, clinic, and in all interactions with faculty, staff, classmates, patients, and other members of the college community.

These expectations prepare students for the responsibilities, standards, and professional behaviors expected of a dental hygienist.

Professional Appearance

As a representative of the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program, your appearance must reflect professionalism, cleanliness, and readiness for the educational and clinical environment.

Students are expected to:

• Wear clean, well-fitting attire that complies with the program dress code.
• Maintain appropriate personal hygiene and a clean, polished, professional appearance.
• Keep hair neat and well-groomed and comply with program requirements regarding hair color.
• Wear appropriate footwear and accessories consistent with program and clinical requirements.

Examples of inappropriate or prohibited attire and accessories 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.
• Pajamas, hoodies, or other clothing that does not meet program dress requirements.
• Excessive jewelry or accessories.
• Bright or unnatural hair colors.

Your appearance should promote confidence, safety, respect, and professionalism. Failure to meet appearance standards may result in removal from class, laboratory, or clinic until the concern is corrected and may result in additional consequences as outlined in the Program Handbook.

Interactions and Communication

Professional communication is expected in all interactions with classmates, faculty, staff, patients, and other members of the college community.

Students are expected to:

• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally in verbal and written interactions.
• Use appropriate professional language in academic, clinical, electronic, and other program-related communications.
• Treat classmates, faculty, staff, patients, and others with courtesy and respect.
• Manage disagreements and conflicts calmly, respectfully, and maturely.
• Accept and consider constructive feedback without becoming argumentative or disrespectful.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries in all interactions.

Ethics and Responsibility

Students are expected to take responsibility for their actions, decisions, and performance throughout the program. This includes:

• Accepting responsibility for academic performance, clinical performance, patient care, and professional development.
• Demonstrating honesty, integrity, accountability, and ethical behavior.
• Following all college, program, course, laboratory, and clinical policies and procedures.
• Recognizing mistakes and taking appropriate steps to correct them.
• Seeking assistance when clarification, guidance, or additional support is needed.

Academic and Program Conduct

Students are expected to contribute to a positive, respectful, and professional learning environment. Students should:

• Strive for excellence and work toward meeting or exceeding program expectations.
• Arrive prepared for class, laboratory, and clinical experiences.
• Participate appropriately in learning activities.
• Support a positive and collaborative learning environment.
• Demonstrate maturity and professionalism under pressure or in challenging situations.
• Accept constructive criticism and use feedback as an opportunity for professional growth.
• Maintain composure and professionalism during disagreements, conflicts, and stressful situations.

Concerns Regarding Grades or Program Decisions

Students who disagree with a grade, evaluation, or other academic decision are expected to follow the official grievance or appeal process outlined in the course syllabus and the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Handbook.

Students must maintain professionalism throughout the process. This includes communicating respectfully, following established procedures, and addressing concerns through the appropriate channels.

Professionalism extends beyond clinical performance and patient interactions. You demonstrate it through your daily actions, communication, appearance, attitude, accountability, and interactions with others throughout your education.

Statement of Confidentiality

Confidentiality is an essential ethical and professional responsibility of every dental hygienist and dental hygiene student. Students are entrusted with sensitive patient information, including medical history, dental history, personal information, treatment records, photographs, radiographs, and other information obtained during the delivery of patient care. This information must be protected and handled in accordance with applicable laws, institutional policies, program policies, and professional ethical standards.

Dental hygiene students are expected to maintain the confidentiality and privacy of all patient information at all times. Patient information may only be accessed, discussed, documented, or disclosed for legitimate educational, clinical, treatment, or legal purposes and only with individuals who are authorized to receive that information. Patient information must never be shared in a manner that could identify a patient or compromise the patient's privacy.

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) Code of Ethics for Dental Hygienists identifies confidentiality as one of the profession's core values. The ADHA states that dental hygienists respect the confidentiality of client information and relationships as a demonstration of the value placed on individual autonomy and acknowledge an obligation to justify any violation of confidence.

Therefore, dental hygiene students are expected to:

• Protect the confidentiality and privacy of all patient information.
• Access patient records only when authorized and when necessary for patient care or legitimate educational purposes.
• Discuss patient information only with individuals who are directly involved in the patient's care or authorized educational activities.
• Avoid discussing patients in public areas or other locations where conversations may be overheard.
• Never photograph, record, copy, post, or share patient information or images without appropriate authorization.
• Never post patient information, photographs, clinical experiences, or other identifying information on social media or other public platforms.
• Follow all applicable federal and state privacy requirements, college policies, Dental Hygiene Program policies, and clinical site requirements.
• Immediately report any actual or suspected breach of patient confidentiality to the appropriate faculty member or program administrator.

A breach of patient confidentiality is a serious violation of professional and program expectations and may result in disciplinary action in accordance with applicable college and Dental Hygiene Program policies. Students are responsible for understanding and consistently demonstrating the ethical and professional behaviors expected of members of the dental hygiene profession.

Professional Ethics Reference:
American Dental Hygienists' Association. Code of Ethics for Dental Hygienists. The ADHA Code of Ethics identifies confidentiality as a core value and emphasizes the dental hygienist's responsibility to respect the confidentiality of client information and relationships.

Cell Phone Policy – Classroom/Lab

To promote a focused, professional, and distraction-free learning environment, cell phones, smart watches, and other personal electronic communication devices are not permitted in the classroom or laboratory.

Students are expected to turn off these devices and store them out of sight before entering the classroom or laboratory. Students may not use, access, or keep cell phones and smart watches on their person during class or laboratory activities unless the instructor specifically authorizes it.

If a student is found with or using a cell phone or smart watch during class or laboratory, the student will be immediately dismissed from the class or laboratory session and marked absent for that session. Students are responsible for understanding that leaving class or lab for violating this policy does not excuse missed instruction, assignments, or laboratory activities.

Class Time and Scheduled Breaks

Class will begin promptly at 12:00 noon and will end at 5:00 p.m. Students are expected to be present, prepared, and ready to participate at the beginning of class. Arriving late or leaving early may result in missed instruction, is considered unprofessional behavior, and will result in an absence. 

To minimize interruptions and maintain an effective learning environment, the instructor will designate scheduled class breaks, and the entire class will take the break at the same time. Students should use these designated breaks to attend to personal needs, check messages, use the restroom, or address other necessary matters.

Students should not routinely leave and re-enter the classroom or laboratory during instruction unless there is an emergency or the student has received permission from the instructor. Frequent coming and going disrupts the instructor and other students and can result in missed instruction and important course information. Students are expected to plan accordingly and return promptly when the designated break has ended.

Students with children, or who may need to be reached for an urgent family situation, should provide caregivers with the Office Supervisor's telephone number: 806-354-6050. Emergency or urgent calls can then be directed to the appropriate office personnel.

If a student has a personal or extenuating circumstance that requires access to a cell phone during class or laboratory, the student must speak with the instructor before the class or laboratory session begins and receive permission. The instructor will determine approval on a case-by-case basis.

Students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior by following this policy consistently and respecting their classmates' learning environment.

Mailboxes

Each student is assigned a mailbox located inside the student locker room. Students are responsible for checking their mailbox daily for communications, announcements, and other information from faculty.

Bulletin Board

First and second-year dental hygiene students have designated areas on a shared bulletin board located inside the student locker room. Faculty may use the bulletin board to post announcements, reminders, schedules, and other important program information. Students are responsible for reviewing their designated area regularly.

Academic Grievance Procedure

If you have a concern or grievance related to an academic course in which you are enrolled, you should first attempt to resolve the concern at the lowest appropriate level.

Students must follow the chain of appeal in the order listed below:

1. Instructor – Discuss the concern with the course instructor and attempt to resolve the issue.
2. Department Chair – If the concern is not resolved with the instructor, the student may appeal to the Department Chair.
3. Dean – If the concern remains unresolved, the student may appeal to the Dean.
4. Vice President of Academic Affairs – If the concern is still unresolved, the student may appeal to the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
5. College President – The College President is the final level of appeal.

Important: Students must follow the appeal process in this order. A student should not skip a level in the grievance process.

Students are encouraged to address academic concerns promptly and professionally and to provide appropriate documentation when submitting an appeal.

Grading Criteria

Grading Criteria

Your final course grade will be calculated using the following weights:

Your final course grade is based on your overall performance in all course assessments. No single assignment or examination determines your final course grade.

Grade Scale

The following grading scale applies to this course:

• A = 93–100%
• B = 83–92%
• C = 75–82%
• F = Below 75%

A grade of D is not awarded in this course.

Course Passing Requirement

To successfully pass the course, you must:

1. Earn a final course grade of at least 75%; and
2. Complete and meet all required course assignments, examinations, and other course requirements.

A final course grade below 75% does not meet the minimum passing requirement for the course.

Missed Examinations

Students are expected to attend and be prepared for all scheduled examinations. If a student misses an examination, they must complete it during the following class period. A 10-point deduction will be applied to the examination grade for a missed examination.

The instructor will administer make-up examinations at a time determined by the instructor based on the instructor's availability. Students should be prepared to complete the make-up examination at the time the instructor designates.

Students are responsible for communicating with the instructor regarding a missed examination.   Missing an examination does not extend the deadline for other assignments or examinations.

Attendance

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is essential to successfully complete this course. As stated in the Amarillo College Student Rights and Responsibilities Publication, “Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class in accordance with the requirements of the course as established by the instructor.”

The Health Sciences Division follows established attendance requirements for all classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences. Students are responsible for reviewing and following the attendance requirements outlined in the Dental Hygiene Program Handbook and this course syllabus.

What Counts as Attendance?

Attendance means being present, alert, and actively engaged for the entire scheduled class or laboratory session. This expectation applies to both in-person and virtual class meetings.

• Students must be present when attendance is taken. If you are not present for roll call, you will be marked absent.
• Students are expected to remain in class or lab for the entire scheduled session. Leaving early will result in an absence.
• Sleeping or failing to participate appropriately during class or lab does not meet the attendance requirement. A student who is sleeping or not participating may be asked to leave and will be marked absent for the session.
• Students are responsible for notifying the instructor of any anticipated absence from class or lab as soon as possible.
• Attendance will be monitored throughout the semester.

Attendance Requirement

Students are expected to maintain at least 90% attendance in both classroom and laboratory sessions. A student whose attendance falls below 90% may fail the course, regardless of the student's academic performance on assignments or examinations.

Excessive absenteeism can interfere with a student's ability to meet course objectives, complete required learning activities, and successfully progress in the Dental Hygiene Program. Attendance is therefore an important component of your responsibility as a professional student.

Perfect Attendance Bonus

A student who maintains perfect attendance for the course may receive one (1) bonus point added to the final course grade, provided the student has a minimum overall course average of 75% before the bonus point is applied.

The perfect attendance bonus recognizes students who demonstrate consistent attendance and commitment to their education. The bonus point cannot be used to raise a failing course average to a passing grade.

Classroom Remediation Policy

To support student success and ensure mastery of course material, any student who scores below 75% on a test, excluding the final examination, must complete the remediation process outlined below.

1. Schedule Tutoring: Within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the test grade, the student must schedule and attend a tutoring session with the departmental/program tutor.
2. Complete Remediation Assignment: The course instructor will provide a targeted remediation assignment based on the material missed on the test. The instructor will email the assignment to the student.
3. Submit Before the Next Test: The completed remediation assignment must be submitted to the instructor before the next scheduled test.
4. Failure to Complete Remediation: Failure to complete any part of the remediation process, including scheduling and attending tutoring within the required seven-day period or submitting the remediation assignment by the deadline, will result in a 10% deduction from the total possible points on the next test.
5. Repeated Non-Compliance: Repeated failure to complete required remediation during the semester will result in a meeting with the Program Director and may lead to further academic action.

The purpose of this policy is to provide timely academic support, reinforce areas of difficulty, and promote mastery of course material and continued success in the Dental Hygiene Program.

Calendar

Additional Information

Course Lab Instructors:

Dr. Plunk, DDS

Haley Epperson, RDH