Dental Hygiene
www.ada.org
Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
211 E. Chicago Ave., Suite 1900, Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 440-4653
www.ada.org/en/coda
202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Dental Hygiene
Phone: (708) 709-3708
Dental Clinic
Phone: (708) 709-3707
Enrollment Services
Phone: (708) 709-3515
The Commission on Dental Accreditation works to sustain the quality and continued improvement of dental and dental-related educational programs.
The Commission on Dental Accreditation will review complaints that pertain only to the standards for the particular program or policies and procedures used in the Commission’s accreditation process.
All comments for review must be submitted sixty (60) days prior to the scheduled accreditation date. All comments must be received in the Commission office by August 4, 2019.
Signed and unsigned comments will be accepted. The names and/or signatures will be removed from comments prior to forwarding them to the program.
A copy of the appropriate accreditation standards and/or the commission’s policy on third-party comments may be obtained by contacting the Commission at:
Commission on Dental Accreditation
211 E. Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Il 60611-2678
Or by calling
800-621-8099, ext. 4653
February 1
The Dental Hygiene Program at Prairie State College is a (4 semester and 2 summer sessions) 82-credit hour career program leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree.
Dental Hygiene Program Outcomes
Graduate Success on National Board Exam
Graduate Success on Commission on Dental Competency Assessment (CDCA) Exam:
2018 - 100% 2017 - 100% 2016 - 100% 2015 - 100%
Dental Hygiene Program Completion
Number formally admitted each year: 38
Number graduated: 2021 - 29 2020 - 30 2019-28 2018 - 28, 2017 - 29, 2016-
26, 2015 - 30
Job Placement Rate as of Survey Date: 2020 - 100%, 2021 - 100%
Career Definition
A dental hygienist is a licensed, preventive oral health professional and member of
the dental health care delivery team. The dental hygienist provides educational, clinical
and therapeutic services and promotes total health through patient-centered care and
the maintenance of optimal oral health.
Program Cost
FIRST YEAR | |
---|---|
Dues - Student American Dental Hygiene Association (SADHA) | $65.00 |
Uniforms ($191-2 sets and lab coat), scrub cap ($11) and Shoes ($50) Optional- Women’s Outerwear Jacket ($44) | $251.00 |
Textbooks for 1st Year | $650.00 |
PPE-Gloves ($230-10 boxes-100/box), Masks ($92-4 boxes-50/bx), Safety Glasses ($4) | $326.00 |
Handpiece ($448.45 purchase Fall of 2022) Ultrasonic Inserts ($208), Face Shield ($14.95-10 shields/pkg), syringe ($62) (purchase in Spring 2023) | $735.00 |
Loupes (Payment plan available through vendor) | $1,400.00 |
Castle Branch Compliance Tracker, Drug Test, Background Check | $113.00 |
Flu Shot | $25.00 |
Darby Supplies (midsummer 2022- $152 and mid-fall semester 2022- $258) | $410.00 |
Nordent Instruments ($400 mid-summer 2022 and $400 Mid-Spring 2023) | $800.00 |
Kilgore Typodont ($250) | $250.00 |
Total Estimated Cost | $5,025.00 |
Summer 2022-Course Fees | |
Credit Fee/Credit Hr $174 (in district) $75/cr. hr surcharge for Nursing, D. Hyg. & Surg.Tech | |
4 hours (4 x $174) + (4 x $75) = $996.00 (DH Credits only) | $996.00 |
Lab Fee (DH107) | $50.00 |
Registration Fee | $10.00 |
Total Summer Course Fees | $1,056.00 |
Fall 2022- Course Fees | |
Credit Fee/Credit Hr $174 (in district) $75/cr. hr surcharge for Nursing, D. Hyg. & Surg.Tech | |
13 hours (13 x $174) + (13x $75) = $3,237.00 (DH Credits only) | $3,237.00 |
Lab Fee | $350.00 |
Registration Fee | $10.00 |
Total Fall Course Fees | $3,597.00 |
Spring 2023- Course Fees | |
Credit Fee/Credit Hr $174 (in district) $75/cr. hr surcharge for Nursing, D. Hyg. & Surg.Tech | |
12 hours (12x $174) + (12x $75) = $2,988.00(DH Credits only) | $2,988.00 |
Lab Fee | $345.00 |
Registration Fee | $10.00 |
Total Spring Course Fees | $3,343.00 |
First Year Estimated Expenses (29 hours + Supplies) | $13,021.00 |
****Cost of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) subject to increase due to Coronavirus supply demands & future recommendations from Center for Disease Control and American Dental Association. |
SECOND YEAR | |
---|---|
EXAMINATION FEES: | |
Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA) | $1,000.00 |
National Dental Hygiene Board Exam | $550.00 |
NERB Exam - Clinic Use Fee | $50.00 |
State of Illinois License | $150.00 |
Pictures for Board Exam | $40.00 |
Board Review Course (optional) | $425.00 |
Total Estimated Exam Fees | $2215.00 |
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS: | |
Textbooks | $475.00 |
Dues - Student Am. Dental Hygiene Assoc. (SADHA) | $65.00 |
Graduation Pin (optional ) | $65.00 |
Flu Shot | $25.00 |
Total Estimated Cost | $630.00 |
Summer 2023-Course Fees | |
---|---|
Credit Fee/Credit Hr $174 (in district) $75/cr. hr surcharge for Nursing, D. Hyg. & Surg.Tech | |
5 hours (5x $174) + (5 x $75) = $1,245 (DH Credits only) | $1,245.00 |
Lab Fee | $150.00 |
Registration Fee | $10.00 |
Fall 2023- Course Fees | |
11 hours (11 x $174) + (11x $75) = $2,739.00 (DH Credits only) | $2,739.00 |
Lab Fee | $485.00 |
Registration Fee | $10.00 |
Total Fall Course Fees | $3,234.00 |
Spring 2024- Course Fees | |
Credit Fee/Credit Hr $174 (in district) $75/cr. hr surcharge for Nursing, D. Hyg. & Surg.Tech | |
7 hours (7 x $174) + (7 x $75) = $1,743.00(DH Credits only) | $1,743.00 |
Lab Fee | $150.00 |
Registration Fee | $10.00 |
Total Spring Course Fees | $1,903.00 |
Second Year Estimated Expenses (23 hours + Supplies + Testing + License Fee) | $9,387.00 |
****Cost of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) subject to increase due to Coronavirus supply demands & future recommendations from Center for Disease Control and American Dental Association. |
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM COST | |
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM ESTIMATED COST (1st & 2nd YEAR) | $22,408.00. |
SCIENCES, PSYCH, SOC, ENG, COMM - 31 hrs at 174.00/hr | |
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM TOTAL ESTIMATED COST | $27,802.00 |
*Tuition and fees are subject to change. | |
** You are responsible for all fees incurred during each semester. Should you leave the program for any reason, you must clear your account of all balances. | |
*** Cost of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may increase due to CDC andGovernment requirements |
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Dental Hygiene prepares the student with specialized skills necessary for employment
as a dental hygienist. Emphasis is on prophylaxis (removal of calculus stain and deposits
from the teeth), prevention of oral disease and on the hygienist's ability as a dental
health educator. The hygienist's services are sought by dentists, schools, prisons,
hospitals, departments of health and industry. The Dental Hygiene program is fully
accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation.
211 E. Chicago Ave., Suite 1900
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 440-4653
Requirements for Application/Admission into the Dental l-Hygiene Program:
- Have satisfactorily graduated from high school, or have a GED.
- All applicants must have permanent resident status in the United States and a valid Social Security number.
- Ability to perform the Essential Functions of the profession.
- Have completed a Prairie State College application and have school and college transcripts sent to Prairie State College Office of Enrollment Services (202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights, IL 60411 ).
- Completion of Dental Hygiene Intent Form
- Verification of 18 years of age prior to enrolling in DH 104 during Spring semester of the first year
- Completion of Math, Reading, and English requirements: (all course work must be completed
with a grade of "C" or better)
- Math requirement: Successful completion of PSC's_MATH 090 or equivalent; OR PSC's Assessment Exam placement score at MATH 095 level or higher.
- English requirement: Successful completion of PSC's ENG 099; OR PSC's Assessment Exam placement score at ENG 101 level.
- Reading requirement: Successful completion of PSC's ENG 101; OR PSC's Assessment Exam placement score at ENG 101 level.
- Completion of HESI -A2 Assessment Exam (given at PSC)
- Successful completion of Bio 221 Anatomy and Physiology 1 with a "C" or better within the last 7 years
Completed applications will be evaluated by the Dental Hygiene Admissions Committee. Notification of acceptance will be provided to those individuals meeting the entrance criteria on a space available basis. Acceptance to the College does not ensure acceptance into the Dental Hygiene Program.
Post Admission Requirements:
The Dental Hygiene Program follows the guidelines set forth by the Center for Disease
Control (CDC). For more information regarding infection control and bloodborne pathogens
please visit http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/infectioncontrol
- Comprehensive physical (PDF*) and dental (PDF*) examinations.
- Proof of standard immunizations.
- Hepatitis B immunizations are required for all entering students.
- Drug Screening
- Proof of Medical Insurance
- Criminal background check
- Once admitted to the program, the student must achieve grades of "C" of better in all courses to remain enrolled.
For an information packet which includes Program Goals, Application Requirements, Essential Functions, Student Ranking, How to Apply, Curriculum by semester and Intent Form call (708) 709-3515 or print the Adobe files provided below.
First Year Program Requirements
*Sociology 101-Introduction to Sociology (3 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 101-Histology (2 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 107-Fundamental of Dental Hygiene (2 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 103-Head & Neck Anatomy & Tooth Morphology (5 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 105-Preventive Dentistry & Nutrition (2 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 108-Clinical Dental Hygiene I (4 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 116-Periodontology (2 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 104-Dental Radiology (3 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 106-General & Oral Pathology (3 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 120-Care of Special Populations (2 credit hours)
*Biology 222-Human Anatomy & Physiology (4 credit hours)
*Biology 211-Microbiology (4 credit hours)
Second Year Program Requirements
Psychology 101 (3 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 201-Clinical Dental Hygiene III (3 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 220-Community Dental Health (2 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 202-Clinical Dental Hygiene IV (5 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 205-Pharmacology (2 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 207- The Science & Application of Dental Materials (4 credit hours)
Dental Hygiene 204-Ethics, Law & Administration (2 credit hours)
In order to be admitted to or continue in the Dental Hygiene Program, a student must have skills and abilities essential to perform as a dental hygienist. Reasonable accommodations will be made on an individual basis; however, the candidate must be able to perform in an independent manner.
Essential Functional Abilities Required in the Dental Hygiene ProgramStandard | Description | Examples of Activities |
Motor Capabilities Mobility/Motor |
Manual finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination Physical abilities (including standing, walking, bending, range of motion of extremities) to move from room-to-room and maneuver in small spaces. Gross and fine motor function sufficient to provide safe and effective dental hygiene care |
Move around in an operatory, workspace and laboratory area. Assist and position patients or lift and operate equipment with necessary strength and dexterity. Able to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation; move around in patient treatment area |
Communication Ability | Communication abilities sufficient for effective interaction with others in spoken and written English. | Explain treatment procedures, initiate teaching, document and interpret patient data and listen attentively |
Sensory Capabilities Hearing, Visual, Olfactory |
Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs. Normal or corrected visual ability sufficient for observation of oral conditions, patient observation and assessment, ability to discriminate between subtle changes in oral conditions and density in radiographs, see in darkroom conditions. Olfactory senses (smell) sufficient for maintaining environment and patient safety, diagnostic tool for oral disease. |
Hear patient concerns and emergency signals. Observe oral conditions, observe patient responses, oral secretions and colors. Read chart, computer screens, disks, labels and gauges, interpret radiographs. Distinguish smells which contribute to assessing and/or maintaining the patient's health status or environment safety (fire), distinguish the smell of oral disease and health. |
Interpersonal Skill | Interpersonal ability to communicate with groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds. Be able to interact with families and individuals. | Establish rapport with patients, colleagues, faculty, health care providers. Use therapeutic communication (attending, clarifying, coaching) |
Problem Solving Ability | Function effectively under stress, respond appropriately to emergencies, adhere to infection control procedures, Address problems or questions to the appropriate persons, organize and prioritize job tasks. | Evaluate patient or disease responses, synthesize data, draw sound conclusions. |
Critical Thinking | Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgment. | Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations, develop treatment plans. |
Behavioral Skills, Attitude, Demeanor and Professionalism | Ability to present professional appearance and implement measures to maintain own physical and mental health and emotional stability. Ability to demonstrate emotional health required for the utilization of intellectual abilities and exercise good judgment. | Work under time restraints and stressful situations. Be exposed to communicable diseases and contaminated body fluids. React calmly in emergency situations. Demonstrate flexibility and teamwork. Respect confidentiality and show concern for others. Must be able to deal with stress produced by course load, clinical requirements and patient attitude. |
Computer Literacy | Requires basic computer skills. | Research information to evaluate products and make evidence-based decisions. |
Our Purpose:
At Prairie State College we teach dental hygiene students to become competent professionals
in the field of dentistry. Please keep in mind that we are a teaching facility; therefore,
our students work at a much slower pace than an established dental practice. Be prepared
to spend an average of 1-1/2 to 3 hours per appointment.
During that time, we do a complete medical/dental history, blood pressure reading, oral examination, plaque index, scaling and polishing of the teeth, flossing and brushing instructions/education, fluoride treatment, and radiographs(x-rays). Each phase of the appointment is supervised by a licensed dental hygienist and a licensed dentist.
Services Provided
The Prairie State College Dental Clinic offers an extensive range of treatments and
oral healthcare services for adults and children. Because PSC is primarily an educational
facility, prospective patients interested in receiving care are primarily selected
on the basis of their teaching potential. Prospective patients receive a medical history
review, intra/extra oral review and identification of urgent treatment needs. Patients
who are accepted for care are treated by dental hygiene students under the supervision
of faculty dentists and hygienists. PSC appreciates the contribution patients make
to the students' education and supports the nondiscriminatory selection of patients.
If you are interested in becoming a patient in the student education program, you
may call (708) 709-3707 to schedule an appointment.
What to Expect When Applying to Become a Patient
Since this is a learning experience for dental hygiene students, be prepared to spend
three and one-half hours for each appointment. Realize also, that most all clients
require multiple appointments before treatment is completed.
Students are required to obtain a thorough medical and dental history from each patient, which includes blood pressure measurements. Your appointment may be altered if these measurements are not within the recommended guidelines. In the instance of a compromised medical history, your physician may need to be consulted before continuing treatment. Please be understanding. This is a teaching facility and a thorough screening of your health is for your protection.
The dental hygiene program follows the guidelines set forth by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). For more information regarding infection control and bloodborne pathogens please visit the website: http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/infectioncontrol. Additional information can be found at the American Dental Association Oral Health Topics.
Inability or unwillingness to cooperate with all recommended treatment and procedures may result in discontinuance of service. If you are more than 20 minutes late, your appointment time may be given to another patient. Please call the clinic if you are running late (708) 709-3707.
Child care is not available.
Clinic Hours, Appointments, and Cancellations
Our clinic is in operation during the Fall, Spring and Summer semester sessions. Due
to the fact that our clinic days vary during each semester, contact our clinic receptionist
at (708) 709-3707 for the current schedule.
Hours of Operation
The clinic is open for patient treatment from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1 to 4:30
p.m. and 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. with the days varying each semester. To ensure the protection
of your children, please make arrangements to have someone care for them while you
are being treated.
In the Fall semester, the faculty run a special clinic for Periodontal patients. This is usually advertised in the local newspapers as to the days and times. Please call the clinic for more information.
Our clinic is closed on weekends and major holidays. It is also closed at times when we are away attending continuing education programs to increase our skills and maintain knowledge of the newest developments in order to serve the consumer better.
When a Student is Assigned
Students depend on you to achieve competency in meeting graduation requirements. Please
be prompt and call with enough notice if you must cancel. We see all patients on an
appointment basis and request that you call in advance so that time can be reserved
for you. We make every effort to honor all time commitments and request that you extend
the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately.
Our students must meet various criteria prior to graduation and they strive to fill
each of their clinical time slots productively. This is also a learning institution
and the student cannot learn without the benefit of a patient. We ask that you give
us 24-hour cancellation notice so that this courtesy gives the student time to appoint
another patient.
Clinic Recall Visits
We hope you share our belief that regular preventive dental health care is a sound
investment. The responsibility for returning for this service rests primarily with
you. At the time of your recall visit, please advise the receptionist and the student
hygienist of any changes in the following areas: (1) name, (2) address, (3) telephone
number, (4) health, (5) medications, both prescription and over the counter, and (6)
any premedication that may be required before treatment can be rendered.
Fees may be paid in the form of cash or check. Payment is due on the date service is provided. Registration fee*: One-time registration fee is for new patients only $2.25.
Services and Fees
Services | 25% Discount | Adult | Youth (12 - 17) | Child (1 - 11) |
Cleaning | $15.00 | $20.00 | $15.00 | $ 6.00 |
Fluoride Treatment | $1.50 | $2.00 | $2.00 | $2.00 |
Bitewing X-rays | $9.00 | $12.00 | $12.00 | $8.00 |
Occlusal X-rays(2 films) | $2.25 | $3.00 | $3.00 | $2.00 |
Full Mouth X-rays | $15.00 | $20.00 | $18.00 | $8.00 |
Per X-ray film | $3.00 | $4.00 | $4.00 | $4.00 |
Sealants (per tooth) | $3.75 | $5.00 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
Mouthguard | $3.75 | $5.00 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
Panorex X-ray | $15.00 | $20.00 | $20.00 | $20.00 |
Bleaching Tray (per arch) | $7.50 | $10.00 | -- | -- |
School Exam Package | -- | -- | $34 | $20 |
X-ray fees also apply to patients scheduled for radiology labs. There will be a 25% discount for all senior citizens, Veterans, PSC faculty, and staff. |
Patients Rights
Your RIGHTS as a patient and partner in your dental hygiene care include:
- Considerate and respectful care.
- Treatment that is most appropriate for your oral health which is consistent with the standard of care in dental hygiene.
- To be fully informed concerning your dental hygiene diagnosis and treatment from the PSC Dental Hygiene Student in terms you can understand.
- To receive necessary information from the PSC Dental Hygiene Student to give informed consent prior to the start of your care.
- To know the names and responsibilities of the people treating you.
- The opportunity to refuse treatment permitted by law and still be informed of the medical and legal consequences of your decision.
- To receive every consideration of your privacy concerning your own dental hygiene care program.
- To expect that all communications and records pertaining to your care will be treated as confidential information.
- To expect that a reasonable response for services requested will be made to the fullest capabilities of the PSC Dental Hygiene Student and PSC Dental Hygiene Faculty.
- To expect continuity and completion of your dental hygiene care.
- To have advanced knowledge of the cost of treatment.
When we work as PARTNERS, you will get the best dental hygiene care possible.
Because of the dental hygiene process of care that the students will perform during their assessment of your needs, appointment availability in our dental hygiene clinic has become extremely limited. Broken appointments (those not cancelled 24 hours in advance) may result in our need to refer you to other sources for the completion of your treatment.
Patients Responsibilities
Your RESPONSIBILITIES as a partner in your dental hygiene care include:
- Giving us complete information about your health.
- Giving us complete information about any medicines you take.
- Giving us complete information about past illnesses and/or hospital treatment.
- Asking questions when you do not understand information or instructions.
- Telling us if you cannot follow through with your treatment.
- Making good health care decisions and follow the directives of the PSC oral health team.
- Knowing that your life style can affect your personal health.
- Keeping scheduled appointments, being on time for scheduled appointments, being able to commit to the entire appointment schedule.
- Meet financial obligations promptly.
- Be respectful and considerate of students, faculty, and other patients.
- Recognizing PSC Dental Hygiene as an educational institution and the treatment may proceed at a pace slower than you anticipated.
When we work as PARTNERS, you will get the best dental hygiene care possible.
Because of the dental hygiene process of care that the students will perform during their assessment of your needs, appointment availability in our dental hygiene clinic has become extremely limited. Broken appointments (those not cancelled 24 hours in advance) may result in our need to refer you to other sources for the completion of your treatment
Dental Hygiene Program Alumni Information Form
We want to stay in touch with you! Please send us your latest information using the
contact information below. We look forward to hearing from you! Keep in touch!!
Sincerely,The Dental Hygiene Staff
Frequently Asked Questions about the Dental Hygiene Program
Q: How do I get started?
A: This is a limited enrollment program and has special requirements. It is strongly
suggested that you meet with an academic advisor. New students should contact the
Counseling and Academic Advising Center at (708) 709-3506. Information regarding the
Application Process can be obtained through the Enrollment Services Office or by calling
708-709-3515.
Q: Why choose dental hygiene?
A: It is projected to be one of the 30 fastest growing occupations. It offers flexible
work schedules and it is an excellent career opportunity for those seeking a career
change or re-entry into the workforce.
Q: What makes Prairie State College a good choice for my dental hygiene education?
A: The Dental Hygiene program at Prairie State:
- is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association;
- prepares graduates to function as periodontal co-therapists;
- employs creative and innovative teaching/learning methodologies;
- provides low student to faculty ratios in clinic and labs;
- provides learners with well-maintained equipment in clinic and labs and state-of-the-art facilities;
- employs faculty who are knowledgeable in current dental hygiene treatment methods;
- more than 1,000 students have earned an A.A.S. degree in dental hygiene from Prairie State College.
Q: What are the aptitudes and physical demands needed to be successful as a dental
hygienist?
A: Must have an aptitude for science. Good eye-hand coordination and hand/finger dexterity
without tremor. Should enjoy working with people in close proximity and be able to
use the English language to communicate effectively. Visual and auditory acuity must
be within the normal range and must have full range of body movement. (For more details,
see Essential Functions).
Q: How much does the program cost?
A: Current tuition rates are listed at www.prairiestate.edu/adm/adm-tuit.html TUITION AND FEES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Financial aid is available through the Financial Aid Office at Prairie State College.
Q: Are there specific health requirements for this program?
A: Yes. It is best to wait until you are actually accepted into the program before pursuing
your requirements due to certain time restrictions. A physical examination as well
as a dental examination are required for all students. The hepatitis vaccine is also
required.
Q: What about insurance coverage?
A: All dental hygiene students will be covered by liability insurance, however, all
students MUST have personal health insurance coverage. Proof of insurance is required
at the beginning of each semester/summer session and kept on file in the Dental Hygiene
offices.
Q: What are Cooperative Agreements and why would I need one?
A: If your local Illinois community college district does not offer a program that is
offered by Prairie State College, you may be eligible to receive assistance from your
district's community college. You must obtain a "Declaration of Intent" from your
local community college. If approved, you will receive a signed cooperative agreement
form, which you must present to Prairie State College at registration, and you will
be billed at PSC's in-district rates.
Associate Professor and Dental Hygiene Coordinator
Associate Professor, Clinical Coordinator
Associate Professor, Department Chair
SADHA Student Advisor & Sigma Phi Alpha Club Advisor