Dental Hygiene

Program Overview

Note

This program is subject to the high-demand admission process. It opens for application on October 1, and closes on February 15, each academic year. On February 15, paper applications are accepted until 4:30 p.m., and online applications are accepted until 11:59 p.m. (Saskatchewan times). All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time) on February 28(29).

As a dental hygienist, it’s your job to provide preventive, educational and therapeutic dental hygiene services to a wide range of clients - from the very young to the very old. Whether you work in a private dental practice or for a health district, in an educational system or for a government agency, you’ll need excellent manual dexterity and good people skills.

Problem solving and critical thinking skills are vital, because a big part of your job is effectively assessing clients and providing treatment plans. Lifelong learning is also important, because you’ll participate in continuing education to stay abreast of changes in technology and techniques.

International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this high-demand program.

Dental Hygiene is a nationally accredited three-year advanced diploma program offered at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Regina Campus. Classroom and lab work combined with clinical experiences and health promotion activities prepare you to deliver a high standard of service in assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation of dental hygiene care. Your studies will focus on:

oral health education and promotion
clinical practice
provision of ethical and professional dental hygiene care

Hands-On Learning in Our Dental Clinic

Hands-on learning in the dental clinic at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Regina Campus is a great way to integrate classroom learning with real-world practice. Under the supervision of licensed dentists and dental hygienists, get first-hand experience in providing comprehensive dental hygiene care including assessment of oral health, instruction in oral self-care, exposing dental X-rays and more.

Diploma to Degree

This Saskatchewan Polytechnic advanced diploma program will allow graduates to access one-year Dental Hygiene degree completion programs offered by Dental Hygiene baccalaureate programs.

Learning Environment

26 students are accepted each year.
As a student, you will experience a combination of classroom and clinical instruction in the on-campus Dental Clinic.
Class hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily. You will be expected to complete 30-40 hours of homework each week outside of class time. Time management skills are essential.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Dental hygienists work in both public and private sectors. General dental practices are major employers, but there also are job opportunities in specialized dental practices, community clinics, health care institutions, educational facilities and government agencies.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Dental Hygienist	Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists (3222)	$72,800 - $122,900

What's the Work Like?

As a student and in this profession, you may

Conduct an initial dental assessment and consult with other health and dental professionals to provide comprehensive client care.
Take dental impressions, fabricate mouth guards and whitening trays.
Instruct patients regarding oral hygiene procedures.
Remove deposits from the gums to prevent gum disease.
Educate clients on oral health diseases such as gum disease and tooth and root decay.
Apply fluoride treatment.
Take and interpret x-rays.
May perform restorative and orthodontic procedures under the direction of a dentist.
May supervise dental assistants in their health care functions.

Essential skills of workers in the field

Below is a list of skills (with examples) that are important in this line of work. This section is based on the Essential Skills Profiles developed and available through the Government of Canada.

Reading

Read letters from dentists and specialists describing patients' conditions and dentist-recommended treatments.
Read medical textbooks and pharmaceutical references to learn about medical conditions and identify drug interactions that may limit or preclude certain dental treatments.
Refer to the Canadian Dental Hygienist Association Handbook and provincial Dental Hygiene acts to review the Code of Ethics, practice standards, confidentiality requirements, competency standards and continuing education requirements.

Document use

Read lists such as price codes for dental treatments, directories of dentists and dental specialists, and tables comparing the characteristics of anaesthetics.
Scan the labels on medication and chemical containers for concentrations, dosages, warnings, precautions, side effects and directions for use.
Interpret radiographs of patients' mouths to identify abnormalities or changes and discuss future treatments with dentists.

Writing

May write instructions, pamphlets and other materials to inform and educate patients about dental diseases, treatments and care.
Record details of discussions with patients on their record forms.
Write brief notes and reminders on schedules, calendars and treatment records.

Math

Compare costs of treatment options to help patients with limited financial resources choose among treatment alternatives.
Take measurements with probes, rulers and measurement guides
Estimate the time required to complete dental procedures.

Oral communication

Interact with suppliers to explain unusual orders and to learn about the features, costs and benefits of new products such as tooth whitening strips.
Speak with patients of all ages and various nationalities to understand their needs, provide dental health instruction, explain treatments and procedures, answer their questions and reassure them.
May present results of scientific studies such as the effects of antiseptic mouth rinses on oral health to their peers at professional development events, such as the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association's Annual Conference.

Thinking skills

Decide what to do when experiencing scheduling problems, when treatments take longer than expected, when patients arrive late for appointments, staff members call in sick or bad weather causes appointment cancellations.
Evaluate patients' oral and dental health and identify treatment needs. For example, hygienists examine the anatomy of the mouth and look for calcium deposits, bleeding and infections.
May assess the effectiveness of community dental health programs.
May analyze and monitor service utilization and dental status statistics to determine if there are changes in children's dental risk level scores.

Technology

Use word processing software. For example, write referral letters to health professionals, letters to parents and educators and create educational handouts and simple forms such as school visit forms
Use database software. For example, use dental management practice software to enter patient data such as dental treatments provided, dental caries noted and patient appointments scheduled.
Use communications software. For example, use e-mail to correspond with co-workers and colleagues about patient and professional development matters.

Further investigate this program choice as a career

Conduct Informational Interviews with people working in this field.
Explore the possibility of job shadowing.
Read more about NOC 3222 Dental Hygienists.
Arrange an INSIGHT experience or Info Night at Sask Polytech.
Call 1 866 467 4278 and ask to speak with the program head or a career counsellor at Sask Polytech.

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September

Length: 100 weeks

Year 1 - 32 weeks; Year 2 - 36 weeks; Year 3 - 32 weeks

Locations

Regina

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 with a minimum overall average of 70% in English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30, Biology 30, Chemistry 30, and one of Foundations of Mathematics 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*
English Language Requirement

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

One of Math A30, B30, C30, or Calculus 30

Note

Standard First Aid and CPR Heartsaver 'C' AED or equivalent are required prior to entry into the Dental Hygiene program and must be current to the year of the program.
Effective July 1, 2019: Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of 2015 WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification upon admission into the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current. The cost of WHMIS certification is your responsibility.

Admission Method

High Demand

High-demand programs consistently have more applicants than spaces available at each Saskatchewan Polytechnic location at which they are offered. High-demand programs have admission requirements plus additional selection criteria. The application period for high-demand programs is October 1 to February 15, each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Selection Criteria

Phase I for High School Graduates: The admission average is calculated from final marks in high school courses required for admission to the program. The high school average will be compared to any grade point average(s) (UGPA) presented for a minimum of 30 passed post-secondary credits from a recognized post-secondary institution - and the highest average considered for admission. Such applicants must be in good academic standing with the institution. If transcripts from more than one post-secondary institution are submitted, the highest UGPA will be considered against the high school average. Applicants are then ranked in the order of the highest averages.
Phase I for Current High School Students: The admission average is calculated from final marks provided by February 28(29). Conditional admission may be granted on this basis. Current high school students must order transcripts to be sent directly to Saskatchewan Polytechnic at the end of Semester 1 and the end of Semester 2 of the grade 12 year. The final grade 12 mark will be used where the course is completed. The final grade 11 mark will be used only in the absence of the grade 12 mark in the same subject.
Phase II: Additional selection criteria will be applied to those with the highest averages in Phase I:
- Admission Average = 70%
- Candidate Portfolio = 20% *
- Relevant Post-secondary Education = 10%

* Saskatchewan Polytechnic must receive your Candidate Portfolio by April 15.

For more information about the admission requirements and selection criteria for this program, refer to the Dental Hygiene Frequently Asked Questions.

For required information on preparing your application, refer to the Dental Hygiene Program Portfolio Guide.

You may find it helpful to print extra copies of the Validation Form for Work/Volunteer Experiences.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 1 - $5,900
Year 2 - $13,400

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

BIOL 100

Human Anatomy and Physiology 1

You will study the human body, how it is constructed and how it functions to maintain homeostasis. You will focus on the interaction between the structures of the body cells, tissues, organs and organ systems. You will learn about levels of organization of the human body, cells, and tissues. You will examine integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and sensory systems.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): BIOL 100CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

CHEM 102

General Chemistry 1

You will study essential chemical concepts including atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry, aqueous solutions, thermodynamics, quantum theory and chemical bonding. In the mandatory lab component, you will be introduced to standard laboratory techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

ENGL 101

Critical Reading and Writing

You will develop basic skills in critical analysis, effective reading and composition by analyzing and evaluating materials from various disciplines. You will also refine your understanding and practice of the structures of composition by writing a report on a topic of your choice using APA-style format.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ENGL 101CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

PSYC 102

Introduction to Psychology 1

You will learn about the history and evolution of psychology as a science. You will define and differentiate various research methods and theoretical perspectives. You will explore the study of human behaviour by examining concepts including: human development, personality, social psychology, psychological disorders and treatments, and the relationship between health and stress.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

STAT 100

Introductory Statistics

You will learn statistical methods of analysis and inference including descriptive measures, frequency distributions, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing for population means and proportions, analysis of variance, as well as correlation and regression techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

BIOL 101

Human Anatomy and Physiology 2

You will continue to study the anatomy and physiology of the human body. You will learn about fluids, electrolytes, and acid-base balance. You will examine structures and functions of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, endocrine, and reproductive systems.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

CHEM 103

General Chemistry 2

You will study properties of liquids, solids and solutions. You will study rates and equilibrium for chemical reactions with application to acids and bases and consider aspects of thermodynamics and electrochemistry. In the mandatory lab component, you will practice standard laboratory techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 102
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

ENGL 102

Literature Survey

You will produce high quality, argumentative essays based on Saskatchewan literature. You will analyze and discuss literary works from Saskatchewan authors, issues that have affected Saskatchewan both in the past and present, and write about Saskatchewan-based topics. You will research Saskatchewan-based topics and issues and apply that knowledge in our analysis of the course material. In addition to analyzing course texts, you will learn to recognize logical fallacies and create logical arguments on various topics throughout the course in order to create contentious thesis statements and supportive material.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGL 101
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PSYC 103

Introduction to Psychology 2

You will learn about the history and evolution of psychology as a science. You will learn to differentiate between various research methods and theoretical perspectives. You will explore the study of human behaviour by examining concepts including: perception, sensation, states of consciousness, learning, memory, thinking, reasoning, language, intelligence and intelligence testing, motivation, emotion, and the biological and neurological foundations of behaviour.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PSYC 102
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

SOCI 171

Culture and Diversity in Canadian Society

You will explore culture and diversity in Canada and the challenges they present. You will discuss the impacts of oppression, multiculturalism, immigration, social inequalities, and social justice at both personal and professional levels. You will discuss the historical and contemporary challenges of Indigenous peoples. You will also examine tools to foster social change and diversity competencies.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANAT 163

Dental Anatomy

Your studies will focus on the basic anatomy of permanent and deciduous teeth. You will study the eruption sequence of the dentitions, the basic structures of the oral cavity and supporting dental structures, and three different numbering systems for identifying teeth.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

ANAT 164

Embryology and Histology

You will develop an understanding of the embryonic development of the face and oral cavity. You will study the development, microscopic anatomy and macroscopic anatomy of the teeth and supporting structures. You will also study the anomalies of these structures.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

ANAT 166

Anatomy and Physiology of the Head and Neck

You will study the superficial anatomy, bones and musculature of the head and neck. You will discuss the blood vessels, lymphatic structures and nerves which supply the head and neck including the maxillary and mandibular dentition.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

DENT 164

Preventive Dentistry 1

Your studies will provide an introduction to the philosophy of preventive dentistry. You will study the relationship between diet and oral health. You will learn the relationship between dental biofilm and oral disease. You will study oral care aids and products designed to prevent and control oral disease, including fluoride. You will acquire the knowledge, skills and attitude required to practice oral disease control.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Equivalent Course(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

DHYG 157

Dental Hygiene Fundamentals 1

You will be introduced to the principles of body ergonomics. You will demonstrate the use of the dental mirror, a modified pen grasp, neutral wrist, fulcrum placement and moisture control procedures in all areas of the mouth. You will demonstrate the use of the periodontal probe.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s): ANAT 163, DHYG 161
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DHYG 161

Health and Safety in the Dental Environment

You will be introduced to principles of infection prevention and control and standard precautions in the dental environment. You will compare the decontamination processes of cleaning, disinfecting and sterilizing and describe dental operatory procedures in order to demonstrate current knowledge regarding infection prevention and control. You will discuss medical emergencies in a dental office.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s): ANAT 163, DHYG 157, MICR 261
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DHYG 164

Assessment 1

You will demonstrate how to measure vital signs. You will study the types of soft tissue lesions that are found in the head and neck area as well as inside the mouth and throat. You will demonstrate an extra oral cancer screening of the head and neck, an intra oral cancer screening of the soft tissues of the mouth and throat, a temporomandibular joint assessment and an orthodontic assessment.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s): ANAT 163, ANAT 166, DHYG 161
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DHYG 200

Introduction to Clinical Dental Hygiene

You will assist with the provision of clinical dental hygiene therapy, following infection prevention and control protocols. Traits of a health care professional and dental record documentation will also be studied. You will be introduced to critical reflection.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s): ANAT 163, ANAT 164, ANAT 166, DENT 164, DHYG 157, DHYG 161, DHYG 164, DHYG 256, DHYG 257, MICR 261
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online

DHYG 256

Assessment 2

You will learn to recognize characteristics of healthy gingival tissues and how disease changes these characteristics. You will learn to recognize and record the variations of gingival and periodontal conditions. You will demonstrate the use of the explorer. You will also examine the dentition, demonstrate dental caries detection, and assess caries risk.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s): DHYG 157, DHYG 161, DHYG 164, DHYG 257
Equivalent Course(s): DHYG 163
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DHYG 257

Dental Hygiene Fundamentals 2

You will describe the function of dental hygiene instruments and be able to recognize their design features. Instrumentation terminology and the rationale for periodontal debridement will be discussed. You will demonstrate the use of sickle scalers, the universal curet and ultrasonic scaling devices. You will also learn how to maintain the sharpness of hand instruments.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s): DHYG 157, DHYG 161, DHYG 256
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MICR 261

Microbiology

You will learn about the various types of microbes, their role in spreading infectious disease and how microbes can be controlled. You will develop an understanding of and appreciation for the prevention of disease transmission.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101, CHEM 102, CHEM 103, ENGL 101, ENGL 102, PSYC 102, PSYC 103, SOCI 171, STAT 100
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

DENT 262

Preventive Dentistry 2

You will acquire the knowledge and skills required to assess, plan, implement and evaluate self care programs for clients. You will learn how to use effective tobacco cessation strategies. You will learn how to incorporate educational theories to enable others to practice effective self care. You will also learn how to plan table clinics for various age and interest groups.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DENT 164
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

DENT 263

Periodontology 1

Your studies will focus on the structure and function of the periodontium, host response in periodontal disease and etiology and characteristics of the most common forms of periodontal disease. Your studies will focus on the links between periodontal disease and systemic health and concepts related to periodontal therapy. You will acquire this information through a combination of classroom instruction and problem-based learning activities.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 163, ANAT 164, MICR 261
Corequisites(s): PATH 268
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

DHYG 165

Preventive Techniques

You will learn the use and maintenance of dental handpieces, extrinsic stain removal techniques, and the application of topical fluoride and pit and fissure sealants.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 157, DHYG 161, DHYG 256, DHYG 257
Corequisites(s):
Equivalent Course(s): DNTL 262
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

DHYG 201

Clinical Dental Hygiene 1

You will begin performing basic, preventive clinical therapy skills in the Dental Hygiene Clinic, including documentation in client records. You will collect general and oral health assessment data and follow care plans to perform preventive clinical therapy. You will follow infection prevention and control protocols and demonstrate professional appearance and conduct required for a clinical setting. You will also learn to identify the results of clinical therapy.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 200
Corequisites(s): DENT 262, DENT 263, DHYG 165, DHYG 258, DHYG 259, DHYG 279, HLTH 262, PATH 268, RDGR 267, RDGR 268
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

DHYG 258

Care Planning for Clinical Dental Hygiene

You will develop an understanding of the dental hygiene process of care as it relates to clinical therapy. You will also be introduced to the skill of determining dental hygiene diagnoses based on client assessment data. Through lectures, labs and group work activities, you will practice developing and presenting dental hygiene care plans. You will also learn how to incorporate evaluation of dental hygiene clinical therapy into a care plan and how to use the outcomes to plan continuing care for clients.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 257, DHYG 256
Corequisites(s): DHYG 165, DHYG 201
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

DHYG 259

Dental Hygiene Fundamentals 3

You will learn fundamentals of dental hygiene therapeutic and supportive clinical therapy. Through lectures and labs, you will learn how to use and maintain area-specific curets. You will also learn how to plan care for clients with sensitive teeth.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): DENT 164
Corequisites(s): DENT 262, DHYG 165, DHYG 201
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DHYG 279

Clinical Integration 1

You will prepare for dental hygiene clinical practice as well as further develop radiology skills. You will learn how to use dental office software and how to manage a client pool. You will discuss the principles involved in ethical dental hygiene care.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 200
Corequisites(s): DHYG 201
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

HLTH 262

Community Oral Health 1

You will be introduced to the health care system and the significant social, political, cultural and economic forces directing the system. You will discuss the determinants of health and apply them to oral health. You will write learning outcomes, select and operate audiovisual equipment, learn practical aspects of public speaking and present a short instructional session in preparation for promoting oral health to groups.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): SOCI 171
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PATH 268

General Pathology

Through independent study, class discussions, and practice predicament learning activities, you will identify clients for whom the initiation or continuation of treatment must be modified or is contraindicated based upon interpretation of health history and clinical data. You will identify clients at risk for medical emergencies and use strategies to minimize such risks.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

RDGR 267

Radiology Theory

You will study the principles of radiation physics, biology, chemistry and safety and will describe theories related to exposing, processing, and mounting radiographs. You will learn how to interpret radiographs. You will also discuss effective client management related to dental radiography.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOL 100, BIOL 101
Corequisites(s): RDGR 268
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

RDGR 268

Dental Imaging Techniques

While observing radiation safety protocols, you will develop skill in exposing and processing high quality dental images using darkroom and digital techniques.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 163
Corequisites(s): RDGR 267
Equivalent Course(s): RDGR 260, RDGR 263
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

DHYG 276

Clinical Dental Hygiene 2

You will gain knowledge and experience in providing preventive and therapeutic clinical therapy to clients in the Dental Hygiene Clinic. You will collect assessment data from clients, identify problems and propose dental hygiene care plans to resolve oral health problems. While following health and safety protocols, you will learn how to provide preventive and therapeutic clinical therapy for clients and measure the results of the therapy. You will begin to use time management strategies and be expected to comply with professionalism and record keeping protocols.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): DENT 262, DENT 263, DHYG 165, DHYG 258, DHYG 259, DHYG 201, DHYG 279, PATH 268, RDGR 267, RDGR 268
Corequisites(s): DHYG 283
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Online

DHYG 283

Clinical Integration 2

You will be introduced to pediatric dental hygiene care. You will present a preventive oral health learning activity at a community child care facility. Through labs and seminars, you will continue to develop your clinical therapy skills. You will practice organizing dental hygiene appointments for therapeutic and supportive therapy and reflect on the application of that therapy.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): DHYG 276
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

NUTR 201

Nutrition

You will develop an understanding of the role of nutrition as it relates to general and oral health and disease. Through a variety of learning experiences which may include classroom instruction, group activities, practical exercises and independent learning, you will acquire knowledge of the standards and guidelines for planning and assessing the nutritional adequacy of diets. You will learn about the function and dietary sources of the major nutrients. You will examine the nutritional needs throughout the lifecycle as well as nutrition-related oral health issues.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

Year 3 - Semester 6

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANES 262

Local Anesthesia

Through independent study, lectures, class discussions, practice predicament learning activities, and preclinical laboratories, you will learn strategies to manage client pain and discomfort, including the administration of intraoral local anesthesia.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 276
Corequisites(s): DHYG 277, PHAR 266
Equivalent Course(s): ANES 262CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

DENT 165

Dental Technology

You will study physical and mechanical properties of dental materials used to take alginate impressions. You will also make study models of teeth and fabricate mouth protectors and whitening trays. You will practice manipulating the materials and operating equipment commonly used in dental offices and laboratories. You will critique your work by evaluating against the criteria for satisfactory laboratory generated items.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 276
Equivalent Course(s): DENT 161
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Prior Learning

DENT 267

Periodontology 2

Your studies will focus on planning periodontal therapy for rare and complex forms of periodontal disease and periodontal occlusal trauma. You will plan the use of the most common chemotherapeutics used in periodontal therapy. You will study various periodontal surgical techniques and the post operative care for clients who have had periodontal surgery. You will acquire this information through a combination of classroom instruction, problem-based learning activities and laboratory practice.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DENT 263, DHYG 276
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

DHYG 277

Clinical Dental Hygiene 3

You will continue to provide care for clients in the Dental Hygiene Clinic. You will learn how to interpret client assessment data to determine dental hygiene diagnoses and, based on the data, you will develop dental hygiene care plans for clients. While complying with health and safety protocols, you will provide preventive, therapeutic and supportive clinical therapy to clients with moderate to advanced oral health problems. You will learn how to evaluate the effectiveness of clinical therapy and identify continuing care needs for clients. You will manage time and resources and apply professional conduct, communication and critical thinking skills.
Credit Units: 10
Course Hours: 150.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 276
Corequisites(s): ANES 262, DENT 165, DHYG 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

DHYG 281

Clinical Integration 3

You will learn how to create personal plans for continuing competence and professional development. With case study experiences, you will have opportunity to integrate evidence based practice and research concepts to manage periodontal therapy and other dental hygiene services. You will further develop instrumentation skills. You will have the opportunity to participate in mentoring activities. You will apply the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) Code of Ethics to clinical practice.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 276, DHYG 279
Corequisites(s): DHYG 277
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

HLTH 274

Community Oral Health 2

You will acquire knowledge needed to meet specific oral health needs of community groups. You will learn formal and informal information gathering techniques and study situational leadership styles. You will collaborate with community partners and assess the need for health promotional events and educational activities for underserviced community groups. You will also initiate a dental hygiene research project.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): HLTH 262, DHYG 276
Corequisites(s): DHYG 277
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PATH 269

Oral Pathology

Through independent study, class discussions and practice predicament activities, you will identify common lesions in the oral cavity. You will plan dental hygiene strategies to manage oral lesions.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 163, ANAT 164, PATH 268
Corequisites(s): DHYG 277
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PHAR 266

Pharmacology

Through independent study, class discussions, and practice predicament learning activities, you will identify clients for whom the initiation or continuation of treatment must be modified or is contra-indicated based upon medications.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PATH 268
Corequisites(s): DHYG 277
Equivalent Course(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

Year 3 - Semester 7

Code

Name/Description

Credits

DENT 269

Dental Specialties 2

You will discuss dental specialties including oral surgery, operative, fixed and removable prosthodontics, endodontics and orthodontics. You will also learn about dental hygiene care for geriatric clients and clients with dental implants and esthetic dentistry.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 277
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DHYG 269

Dental Hygiene Practice

You will study ethics and apply the Canadian Dental Hygienists’ Association’s Code of Ethics to various case studies. You will learn about jurisprudence, focusing on the laws governing the practice of dental hygiene, the Dental Discipline’s Act of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Dental Hygienists’ Association’s By-Laws. You will also learn about the Canadian Dental Hygienists’ Association’s national competencies and various practice options for dental hygienists.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

DHYG 278

Clinical Dental Hygiene 4

You will progress towards the competency required for an entry-level dental hygienist who can apply quality assurance standards and protocols to ensure a safe and effective working environment. You will assess the health status of clients and plan strategies to manage clients with health risks. You will establish dental hygiene care plans based on a client-centered approach and the best available resources. You will determine continuing care needs for clients based on the evaluation of the clinical therapy you provided. You will maintain professionalism in all aspects of dental record keeping, communication, management and collaboration with caregivers or other health professionals. You will also self assess your professional practice to help make the transition from student to graduate dental hygienist.
Credit Units: 17
Course Hours: 255.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 277
Corequisites(s): DHYG 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

DHYG 282

Clinical Integration 4

You will prepare for the transition from graduate to professional dental hygiene practice. You will apply evidence-based decision making approaches to a clinical case. Your studies will explore aging, disabilities and other possible barriers to accessing dental hygiene care. You will examine factors that may affect the oral health of these clients and, based on the needs of these clients, you will plan care modifications. You will also learn about respect for diversity when working with the elderly and clients with disabilities or other barriers. Through labs, you will learn how to perform overhang removal and place temporary restorations.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DHYG 277, DHYG 281
Corequisites(s): DHYG 278
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

HLTH 275

Community Oral Health Projects

You will have an opportunity to plan, implement and evaluate oral health programs, health promotional events and educational activities for under-serviced community groups. You will develop both written and oral reports on your project.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): HLTH 274
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.

Athabasca University

Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer of 60 credit units into the Bachelor of Science Post Diploma program or 30 credit units toward BSc (PD) with Majors in Applied Mathematics, Computing Information Systems and/or Human Science.

University of Regina/First Nations University of Canada

Graduates of this program may be accepted in to the Faculty of Arts or the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina or the First Nations University of Canada with 60 credit hours of block transfer.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Accreditation

Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada

The Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. When you graduate, you’re eligible to write Canadian and American national certification exams. You’ll also be eligible for licensure by the Saskatchewan Dental Hygienists' Association.