Dental Hygiene Program

Notice to potential dental hygiene applicants: Enrolled students are exposed to bloodborne pathogens. These include but are not limited to pathogenic microorganisms present in human blood and can cause diseases such a Hepatitis HBV, Herpes, Tuberculosis and HIV. The Bloodborne Pathogen policy is available by contacting the dental hygiene program.

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The TMCC dental hygiene program is a two-year associate of science degree program. Classes begin in the fall semester each year on a traditional semester schedule with completion in May of the second year.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.

Dental Hygiene Program Slide Show: (PowerPoint | (PDF )

The dental hygienist is dedicated to providing preventative and therapeutic dental care.

Some of the responsibilities routinely performed by hygienists in Nevada include:

• Performing oral cancer screening through examination of soft tissues
• Examining periodontal (gum and bone) structure around and supporting teeth
• Taking and interpreting radiographs
• Removing stain, hard (calculus), and soft (plaque) deposits from tooth surfaces above and below the gum line utilizing scaling and root planing procedures
• Administering topical fluoride treatments
• Applying dental sealants
• Administering local anesthesia and nitrous-oxide sedation
• Designing and implementing treatment plans for individuals
• Designing and implementing oral health programs for groups
• Providing dental health education for individuals and groups

Program Goals

• To prepare the dental hygiene student for gainful employment providing oral health care to the diverse community within the State of Nevada, utilizing the highest professional knowledge, judgement and ability.
• To prepare the dental hygiene student who will apply the scientific and theoretical principles that are relevant to dental hygiene practice.
• To prepare the dental hygiene student to perform routine dental procedures, advanced non-surgical periodontal therapy procedures, and delivery of local anesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation, and other functions which are legally specified by the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners.
• To prepare the dental hygiene student to be able to demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning, self-evaluation, and contribution to the changing health needs of society.
• Graduates of the TMCC dental hygiene program will be prepared to complete the written National Board Examination and the Nevada State Board Clinical Examination.

Students must meet certain technical standards

• Possess good hand/eye coordination and manual strength and dexterity to perform instrumentation skills necessary for direct patient care.
• Hold a current CPR card and be able to perform emergency procedures required in the field.
• Be free from conditions which put other humans at risk.
• Possess ability to read, write, record and report.
• Be able to understand and react quickly to verbal instructions and patient needs.
• Be able to effectively communicate with patients to explain procedures, provide instructions and educate.