Dental Hygiene
The Dental Hygiene Program at Texas A&M College of Dentistry educates preventive oral health professionals who are capable of providing educational, clinical and therapeutic services that support total health through the promotion of optimal oral health.
meet the teamBachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
Dental hygiene offers an excellent opportunity to serve the community in private dental practices, dental clinics, public health agencies, schools, hospitals, government agencies, industry, education and research. The baccalaureate degree offered through the Dental Hygiene Program provides graduates with diverse experiences to prepare for a variety of employment settings and to pursue graduate education.
The MS-EDHP program will provide the opportunity for individuals to develop the background and skills necessary to be excellent teachers in their areas of specialty and conduct research to improve and develop innovative educational programs in health professions education.
Scope of Practice of the Dental Hygiene Program at Texas A&M College of Dentistry
- Collecting medical and dental histories
- Taking radiographs (x-rays)
- Performing assessments such as extra and intraoral exams for detection of oral cancer
- Providing oral health education
- Performing dental charting, periodontal charting, and screening exams for acceptance into the dental hygiene program and referrals
- Oral prophylaxis (cleanings), including polishing of all exposed tooth surfaces
- Periodontal scaling and root planning (deep cleanings), including supragingival and subgingival debridement
- Preventive measures, including fluoride, sealants, and other topical agents
- Nitrous Oxide monitoring
- Administering local anesthesia-infiltration
- All duties allowed for an unlicensed dental assistant
