DH 190 - Periodontology

Credit Hours: 2

This course will focus on the study of normal and diseased periodontium including the structural, functional and environmental factors affecting these tissues. Emphasis will be placed on etiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, treatment modalities and therapeutic and preventive periodontics in a clinical setting. Students will receive a sound foundation in the biological aspects of periodontal disease including immune system dysfunction, the dental hygiene treatment plan, classification of periodontal diseases and periodontal treatment modalities. At the conclusion of this course, the student should fully understand the evidence- based nature of periodontal diseases and the role of the dental hygienist as a periodontal co-therapist in the prevention, treatment and maintenance of the periodontal patient. Minimum passing grade is “C-.”

Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

recognize the characteristics of the periodontium in health and disease;
evaluate the etiologic factors involved in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease;
describe the classification, etiology and pathogenesis of inflammatory and other periodontal diseases;
communicate periodontal findings to the patient and other health professionals;
explain the relationship between periodontal disease and systemic health and between systemic disease and oral health; and
describe the need for and importance of clinical recognition as well as treatment of periodontal disease.

Prerequisites: All required first-semester courses in the Dental Hygiene curriculum must be passed.
Corequisites: All required second-semester courses in the Dental Hygiene curriculum.
S (N)