DH 220 - Pharmacology

3 Credit(s)

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of the first two terms of the Dental Hygiene program.

Course Description: Introduces the mechanism of action of drugs to the human body. Includes the role of the dental hygienist in patient’s adherence to medication therapy. The foundational concepts of principles of pharmacology, non-opioid analgesics, and antibiotics, as well as additional classes of drugs and emphasizes drugs commonly used in the dental profession for treatment of common systemic and oral diseases and for emergency treatment.

Course Learning Outcomes:

CLO#1: Identify key components of prescriptions to ensure accurate medication administration and patient safety in dental practice.
CLO#2: Describe the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of common dental medications, including local anesthetics and antibiotics.
CLO#3: Assess drug-drug and drug-disease interactions and their implications for treatment planning and patient care.
CLO#4: Apply legal, ethical, and safety guidelines in drug prescription and administration. (ILO: Critical Thinking)
CLO#5: Educate patients on proper medication use and address concerns related to overuse, misuse, and resistance.

ACTI Code and Course Type
210 Career / Tech Preparatory

Length of Course:
A state required minimum of (30) and a standard RCC deliver of (33) lecture hours per term, not to exceed (36) hours per term.