DHY 120 - Dental Hygiene Biochemistry and Nutrition

2 credit hours - Two hours of lecture weekly; one term.
Examine general pathology with a focus on oral pathology to recognize abnormalities extra- and intra-orally. Describe the connection between systemic health and oral health pertaining to pathology and risk factors that lead to higher prognosis of cancer. Define the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical and microscopic signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up and prognosis related to dental care.

Prerequisite(s): DHY 110 , DHY 112 , DHY 114 , and DHY 116 with a grade of C or better in each course.

Corequisite(s): DHY 122 and DHY 124 .

Course Outcomes:

Communicate effectively with clients regarding overall health behaviors, nutritional habits, and the relationship to oral and/or systemic disease.
Explain the role of nutrition in the synthesis and maintenance of the oral tissues.
Name the classes of essential nutrients, and state their general function in growth and development.
Understand globally the impact nutritional habits have on overall health and oral health and identify tools and services dedicated to improving the overall wellness of clinic and community patients.
Use computer software to determine the nutrient content of a diet, and use nutrient intake guidelines appropriately to evaluate the diet for nutritional content and effect on the oral cavity.
Identify food factors and eating patterns that may contribute to the development of caries and/or impact healing of oral tissues.
Describe the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) nutrient intake standards in terms of their aims, differences, nutrients represented and their application to individual clients.
Explain dietary goals for people with chronic disease such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease and how they might impact oral health.