Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

The standards and benchmarks for this program were updated for the 2026-27 academic year.

Program Title: 	Dental Hygiene
Career Cluster: 	Health Science

Associate in Science	
CIP Number	1351060200	
Program Type	College Credit	
Program Length	88 credit hours 	
CTSO	HOSA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	For program SOC codes, please see the Program and Course Tables section of the CTE Program Resources page linked below.	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

This program is designed to prepare students for employment as dental hygienists or to provide supplemental training for persons previously or currently employed in this occupation.

The content includes but is not limited to patient assessment, dental hygiene instrumentation and direct patient care services (scaling/root planing/curettage/radiographs/oral hygiene-instruction/expanded functions), community dental health, dental office emergencies, infection control, special needs dental care, office management, employability skills, ethics and jurisprudence.

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 88 credit hours.

When developing the course sequence for the local implementation of this program, select courses that:
•	Meet the skill development requirements of the standards and benchmarks of this program.
•	Meet the general education core course requirements of Rule 6A-14.0303, Florida Administrative Code.
•	Where reasonable and practicable, align with programs offered by your institution or other postsecondary institutions in Florida, including: 
o	Related CCC and ATD credentials.
o	Baccalaureate degrees within the same career pathway and/or Federal CIP code.

Visit FloridaShines’ Discover Programs website to identify other institutions that offer similar programs to review their course sequencing. Where appropriate, course alignment between institutions offering related programs can facilitate interagency student articulation.

Visit FloridaShines’ Common Prerequisites Manual to identify courses that are prerequisites for admission into an upper division program.  When sub-baccalaureate courses are aligned to the course admissions requirements of baccalaureate programs with the same career pathway, students can enter upper division coursework seamlessly.   

Regulated Programs

Students are prepared to take the Dental Hygiene National Board and state licensure examinations.  Dental Hygiene Programs accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation are required to implement clinical experiences outlined in these program standards.

Florida’s Career Readiness Skills for CTE Programs

Employability Skills	
01.0	Apply academic skills to workplace scenarios.	
01.01	Use reading skills.	
01.02	Use writing skills.	
01.03	Use mathematical strategies and procedures.	
01.04	Use scientific principles and procedures.	
02.0	Design a solution to an industry problem.	
02.01	Use critical thinking.	
02.02	Use creativity.	
02.03	Make sound decisions.	
02.04	Solve problems.	
02.05	Reason. 	
02.06	Plan and organize.	
03.0	Manage resources within an industry project	
03.01	Manage time.	
03.02	Manage money or resources.	
03.03	Manage materials.	
03.04	Manage personnel.	
04.0	Oversee the subcomponents, operations and output of a technical or organizational system.	
04.01	Manage systems.	
04.02	Monitor systems.	
04.03	Improve systems.	
05.0	Use information for decision making.	
05.01	Locate information.	
05.02	Organize information.	
05.03	Use information.	
05.04	Analyze information.	
05.05	Communicate information.	
06.0	Apply relevant technology to workplace scenarios to aid productivity.	
06.01	Use technology.	
07.0	Interpret and express interpersonal communication.	
07.01	Communicate verbally.	
07.02	Listen actively.	
07.03	Comprehend written material.	
07.04	Convey information in writing.	
07.05	Communicate nonverbally.	
07.06	Interpret nonverbal communication.	
08.0	Interact with others to accomplish workplace goals.	
08.01	Collaborate with others in a team.	
08.02	Respond to customer needs.	
08.03	Exercise leadership.	
08.04	Negotiate to resolve conflict.	
08.05	Respect others.	
09.0	Manage personal behavior to maximize productivity and professional growth.	
09.01	Demonstrate responsibility and self-discipline.	
09.02	Adapt and show flexibility.	
09.03	Work independently.	
09.04	Demonstrate a willingness to learn.	
09.05	Demonstrate integrity.	
09.06	Demonstrate professionalism.	
09.07	Take initiative.	
09.08	Display positive attitude.	
09.09	Take responsibility for professional growth.	
Job Attainment	
10.0	Find, assess and apply to job opportunities.	
10.01	Identify online job posts relevant to his or her career aspirations.	
10.02	Compare and contrast the job posts’ required qualifications, job duties, compensation, benefits and employers. 	
10.03	Define what information, documentation and writing prompts are required for the positions.	
11.0	Communicate personal competence, character and fit for a job opportunity.	
11.01	Develop a resume.	
11.02	Write a cover letter.	
11.03	Curate a professional portfolio that includes work products.	
11.04	Prepare for and experience a mock job interview.	
12.0	Cultivate and leverage relationships to professionally advance.	
12.01	Request a signed reference letter, letter of recommendation and/or an online skill/professionalism endorsement. 	
12.02	Develop a plan to cultivate a professional digital footprint.	
12.03	Develop a networking plan for a specific industry of interest.	

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the dental health care delivery system and dental health occupations.
02.0	Use oral and written communication skills in creating, expressing, and interpreting information and ideas.
03.0	Describe the legal and ethical responsibilities of the dental health care provider.
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of general anatomy and physiology and apply wellness and disease concepts.
05.0	Demonstrate the importance of health, safety, and environmental management systems in dental organizations and their importance to organizational performance and regulatory compliance.
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
07.0	Use information technology tools.
08.0	Explain the importance of employability skills.
09.0	Demonstrate knowledge of infectious diseases.
10.0	Demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills needed to accomplish team goals and objectives.
11.0	Perform remediable tasks delegable to a dental hygienist as permitted by Florida Statutes/Law.
12.0	Perform dental office procedures.
13.0	Identify, describe, maintain, and utilize dental instruments and equipment.
14.0	Identify and perform dental and radiographic procedures.
15.0	Identify the properties and uses of dental materials, demonstrate their manipulation, and integrate digital technologies such as image scanners and software for designing and fabricating dental appliances, crowns, and restorations. 
16.0	Identify and explain the formation and function of the head, neck, dental structures, and tissues, including pathological conditions of the human body in relation to the oral cavity.
17.0	Identify and explain principles of microbiology, disease transmission, disease prevention, and perform infection control procedures.
18.0	Explain usage, administration, indications, contraindications, adverse reactions, and precautions of pharmaceutical and anesthetic agents used in the treatment of dental disease.
19.0	Describe principles and perform techniques of preventive dentistry.
20.0	Perform patient assessment.
21.0	Perform direct patient services and competently provide the dental hygiene process of care for the child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patient, as well as the special needs patient.
22.0	Implement and evaluate community health interventions and research activities.

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title: 	Dental Hygiene 
CIP Number: 	1351060200 
Program Length: 	88 credit hours 

At the completion of this program, the student will be able to:	
01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the dental health care delivery system and dental health occupations. The student will be able to:	
01.01	Identify the basic components of the dental health care delivery system, including public, private, government, and non-profit. 	
01.02	Describe the roles of general and specialty dental healthcare providers, including the services offered by specialists such as orthodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons.	
01.03	Describe the composition and functions of a dental health care team.	
01.04	Identify the general roles and responsibilities of the individual members of the dental health care team.	
01.05	Identify the roles and responsibilities of the consumer within the dental healthcare system. 	
01.06	Explain factors that influence the current delivery system of dental healthcare. 	
01.07	Explain the impact of current and emerging issues, including, Artificial Intelligence (AI), teledentistry, technology, epidemiology, bioethics, and socioeconomics on the dental healthcare delivery system. 	
01.08	Discuss the history of dentistry and dental hygiene.	
01.09	Demonstrate knowledge in communicating and collaborating with other members of the health care team to support comprehensive patient care.  	
02.0	Use oral and written communication skills in creating, expressing, and interpreting information and ideas. The student will be able to:	
02.01	Apply basic speaking and active listening skills, including reflection, restatement, and clarification techniques. 	
02.02	Develop basic observational skills and related documentation strategies in written and oral form. 	
02.03	Identify characteristics of successful and unsuccessful communication, including communication styles and barriers. 	
02.04	Compose written communication using correct spelling, grammar, formatting, and confidentiality.	
02.05	Recognize components of medical and dental terminology and abbreviations. 	
02.06	Recognize the importance of courtesy and respect for patients and other health care workers and maintain good interpersonal relationships. 	
02.07	Develop and implement effective patient education strategies, including written, oral, and digital communication methods. 	
02.08	Adapt communication skills to meet various levels of understanding and orientation of diversity, including but not limited to sexual orientation, gender orientation, disability, age, culture, economics, ethnicity, and religion. 	
02.09	Identify psychological considerations influencing communication and behaviors.	
03.0	Describe the legal and ethical responsibilities of the dental health care provider. The student will be able to:	
03.01	Identify areas of 466, F.S., Rule 64B5-16, F.A.C., and Rule 64B5-25, F.A.C., applicable to practice by dental health providers.	
03.02	Explain practices that could result in malpractice, liability, negligence, abandonment, false imprisonment, and fraud. 	
03.03	Demonstrate procedures for accurate documentation and record keeping. 	
03.04	Interpret healthcare facility policy and procedures. 	
03.05	Explain the patients' "Bill of Rights”.	
03.06	Identify and implement standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), including but not limited to social media and use of personal electronic devices in the workplace.	
03.07	Distinguish between express, implied, and informed consent. 	
03.08	Explain the laws governing harassment, labor, and employment. 	
03.09	Differentiate between legal and ethical issues in dentistry.	
03.10	Describe the dental hygienist profession’s Code of Ethics.	
03.11	Identify and compare personal, professional, and organizational ethics. 	
03.12	Recognize the limits of authority and responsibility of dental health care workers, including legislated scope of practice. 	
03.13	Recognize and report illegal and/or unethical practices of dental health care workers. 	
03.14	Recognize and report child, elder, and domestic abuse as mandated by law. 	
03.15	Demonstrate an understanding of reporting requirements for all types of abuse.	
03.16	Identify resources for victims of abuse.	
03.17	Define commonly used legal vocabulary relating to dentistry.	
03.18	Describe ethical considerations/obligations in the dental team-patient relationship.	
03.19	Explain risk management and root cause analysis in the prevention of medical errors, infection control breaches, improper documentation, and failure to obtain informed consent.	
03.20	Apply self-assessment skills to prepare for lifelong learning.	
03.21	Apply ethical, legal, and regulatory principles to resolve ethical dilemmas.	
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of general anatomy and physiology and apply wellness and disease concepts. The student will be able to:	
04.01	Develop a basic understanding of the structure and function of the body systems.	
04.02	Identify common disorders associated with each body system, emphasizing the oral manifestations of disease and the necessary modifications to treatment.	
04.03	Explain basic concepts of positive self-image, wellness, and stress. 	
04.04	Describe a wellness and stress control plan that can be used in personal and professional life. 	
05.0	Demonstrate the importance of health, safety, and environmental management systems in dental organizations and their importance to organizational performance and regulatory compliance. The student will be able to:	
05.01	Describe personal and jobsite safety rules and regulations that maintain safe and healthy work environments, including the proper transport and transfer of patients.	
05.02	Utilize root cause analysis, electronic health record audits, and checklists for medical/dental error prevention. 	
05.03	Demonstrate an understanding of personal safety procedures based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regulations (including standard precautions).	
05.04	Recognize Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Globally Harmonized System (GHS) labels and comply with safety signs, symbols, and labels. 	
05.05	Describe workplace preparedness and procedures for fire safety, disaster, and evacuation. 	
05.06	Explain procedures to follow for responding to, reporting, and recording workplace incidents. 	
05.07	Demonstrate handwashing and the use of personal protective equipment in dentistry.	
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations. The student will be able to:	
06.01	Take and record vital signs and know abnormal vital parameters (bp, blood glucose, respirations, etc.) and their implications for dental treatment. 	
06.02	Describe legal parameters relating to the administration of emergency care. 	
06.03	Obtain and maintain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED), foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO), and first aid. 	
07.0	Use information technology tools. The student will be able to:	
07.01	Define terms and demonstrate basic computer skills. 	
07.02	Interpret and input information from electronic medical documents. 	
07.03	Demonstrate an understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) software and its applications in digital dentistry.	
08.0	Explain the importance of employability skills. The student will be able to:	
08.01	Identify personal traits or attitudes desirable in a member of the healthcare team. 	
08.02	Exemplify basic professional standards of dental healthcare providers. 	
08.03	Develop a professional resume and/or career portfolio.	
08.04	Conduct a job search and complete a job application form.  	
08.05	Demonstrate effective job interview techniques.  	
08.06	Examine levels of education, credentialing requirements (including licensure and certification), employment opportunities, workplace environments, and career growth potential. 	
09.0	Demonstrate knowledge of infectious diseases. The student will be able to:	
09.01	Recognize oral manifestations of systemic diseases and infections that may contraindicate dental treatment.	
09.02	Recognize emerging diseases and disorders.	
09.03	Demonstrate knowledge of transmission of infectious diseases, their causative agents, and the treatment of diseases caused by infectious organisms.	
09.04	Identify "at-risk" behaviors that promote the spread of infectious diseases and the public education necessary to combat the spread of these diseases. 	
09.05	Identify community resources and services available to individuals with infectious diseases. 	
09.06	Apply infection control techniques designed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the care of all patients following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. 	
09.07	Demonstrate knowledge of the legal aspects of treating patients with infectious diseases, including testing and proper documentation. 	
10.0	Demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills needed to accomplish team goals and objectives. The students will be able to:	
10.01	Analyze attributes of effective leadership. 	
10.02	Recognize factors and situations that may lead to conflict.  	
10.03	Demonstrate effective problem-solving techniques for managing team conflict.	
11.0	Perform remediable tasks delegable to a dental hygienist as permitted by Florida Statutes/Law. The student will be able to:	
11.01	Demonstrate remediable delegable tasks to lab and/or clinical competence.  	
12.0	Perform dental office procedures. The student will be able to:	
12.01	Maintain appointment control with effective time management skills.	
12.02	Assess, create, modify, and maintain an active re-care system.	
12.03	Prepare and maintain accurate patient records and conduct chart audits.	
12.04	Demonstrate skills on office equipment to include computers and dental office management systems.	
12.05	Utilize correct dental codes and nomenclature for procedures. 	
13.0	Identify, describe, maintain, and utilize dental instruments and equipment. The student will be able to:	
13.01	Identify and demonstrate the operation of dental operatory and laboratory equipment.	
13.02	Maintain dental operatory equipment and instruments.	
13.03	Identify and demonstrate the use of dental hygiene instruments. 	
14.0	Identify and perform dental and radiographic procedures. The student will be able to:	
14.01	Describe the history, physics, and biological effects of ionizing radiation.	
14.02	Identify parts of the radiographic imaging machine.	
14.03	Demonstrate radiologic health protection techniques.	
14.04	Perform radiographic procedures that include processing, utilization, and care of equipment.	
14.05	Place image receptors, expose dental images, and understand the relevance of exposure settings, times, and patient record keeping.	
14.06	Identify radiographic anatomical landmarks.	
14.07	Mount radiographic surveys and/or save and store digital files.	
14.08	Recognize and correct errors in exposing radiographic images.	
15.0	Identify the properties and uses of dental materials, demonstrate their manipulation, and integrate digital technologies such as image scanners and software for designing and fabricating dental appliances, crowns, and restorations. The student will be able to:	
15.01	Identify properties and uses, and demonstrate manipulation of gypsum.	
15.02	Identify properties and uses, and demonstrate manipulation of sealants and restorative materials.	
15.03	Identify properties and uses, and demonstrate manipulation of dental cements.	
15.04	Identify properties and uses, and demonstrate manipulation of impression materials.	
15.05	Identify properties and uses, and demonstrate manipulation of acrylics and/or thermoplastics.	
15.06	Identify and demonstrate dental laboratory procedures as outlined by remediable tasks delegable to the dental hygienist by Florida Statute/Law.	
16.0	Identify and explain the formation and function of the head, neck, dental structures, and tissues, including pathological conditions of the human body in relation to the oral cavity. The student will be able to:	
16.01	Identify structures and functions of head and neck anatomy, including bones, muscles, sinuses, salivary glands, lymph nodes, nerves, and blood vessels.	
16.02	Identify embryonic development of the head, oral cavity, and teeth.	
16.03	Describe the histological components of the head, oral cavity, and elements of the teeth and supporting structures.	
16.04	Describe and differentiate between normal and malocclusion.	
16.05	Identify the elements of the chemical basis of life, cellular metabolism, and the structure of the major tissue types of the human body.	
16.06	Describe the metabolism of nutrient foods, vitamins, and minerals by the human body and pathological conditions related to nutrient deficiencies.	
16.07	Identify anatomical structures and physiological functions of the principal systems of the human body, including the skeletal, muscular, integumentary, circulatory, lymphatic, endocrine, digestive, reproductive, respiratory, urinary, and nervous systems.	
16.08	Identify and explain oral pathological conditions affecting the teeth and supporting structures, including general pathology, as many systemic conditions present oral manifestations.	
16.09	Identify teeth and their landmarks, and the morphological characteristics of each individual tooth.	
16.10	Recognize and describe developmental anomalies related to the head and oral structures.	
17.0	Identify and explain principles of microbiology, disease transmission, disease prevention, and perform infection control procedures. The student will be able to:	
17.01	Differentiate between pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms.	
17.02	Describe pathogens and modes of disease transmission.	
17.03	Differentiate between aseptic and non-aseptic environments.	
17.04	Perform aseptic handwashing technique.	
17.05	Describe, apply, and differentiate between methods of cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of the dental environment. 	
17.06	Recognize the need for and demonstrate the use of proper precautions for the prevention of disease transmission during all dental-related procedures.	
17.07	Identify the role of prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells, viruses, and bacteria in infections and the mechanisms of diseases.	
17.08	Identify the genetics of microbes, including replication of DNA and protein synthesis, mutation, and gene transfer.	
18.0	Explain usage, administration, indications, contraindications, adverse reactions, and precautions of pharmaceutical and anesthetic agents used in the treatment of dental disease. The student will be able to:	
18.01	Identify the agencies responsible for drug regulations.	
18.02	Document in the patient’s chart prescribed or over-the-counter medications, along with any supplements or vitamins the patient is taking. 	
18.03	Identify medication actions, side effects, indications, and contraindications; verify with Physician's Desk Reference or its equivalent. 	
18.04	Describe the process of medication metabolism.	
18.05	Identify pharmaceuticals and medicaments used in dentistry. 	
18.06	Recognize specific conditions in the oral cavity that may be caused by pharmaceutical agents.	
18.07	Identify properties of anesthetics.	
18.08	Identify the tissues innervated by each of the nerves associated with dental local and topical anesthesia.	
18.09	Describe the properties and mode of action of an effective local and topical anesthetic.	
18.10	List systemic considerations in choosing a local and topical anesthetic.	
18.11	Describe ASA classifications and their role in dental treatment planning.	
18.12	Describe and demonstrate methods of administering topical and local anesthetics.	
18.13	List potential local and systemic adverse reactions associated with local anesthetic administration. 	
18.14	Prepare armamentarium for administering local anesthetics for recognized techniques.	
18.15	Document anesthetics administered and any adverse reactions in a patient’s chart.	
18.16	Describe the administration and monitoring process and identify precautions in the use of nitrous oxide-oxygen inhalation analgesia. 	
19.0	Describe principles and perform techniques of preventive dentistry. The student will be able to:	
19.01	Identify, communicate, and instruct patients on applicable methods of preventive dentistry that utilize:
•	Risk assessment
•	Evidence-based learning
•	Individualized preventive care plans
•	Motivational interviewing/counseling 
•	Training regarding health status and rationale for the preventive care plan	
19.02	Identify properties and indications for use of anticarcinogenic treatments utilized in the community, home, and office. 	
19.03	Identify and demonstrate proper auxiliary aides based on individual patient needs.	
19.04	Identify and describe deficiencies that manifest symptoms in the oral cavity and communicate applicable therapies.	
19.05	Present dietary recommendations to address specific dental needs during nutritional counseling.	
20.0	Perform patient assessment. The student will be able to:	
20.01	Take, record, and correlate medical/dental history with dental hygiene treatment plan and services to be performed.	
20.02	Understand contraindications to dental hygiene treatment for systemic conditions or diseases.	
20.03	Take, record, and correlate vital sign observations with the dental hygiene treatment plan and services to be performed.	
20.04	Assess vital signs in order to reduce the incidence of patient complications and medical emergencies.	
20.05	Perform, record, and correlate extraoral and intraoral examination findings with the dental hygiene care plan and patient services to be performed.	
20.06	Observe and record existing restorations as well as conditions and suspected pathologies of hard and soft tissues using the appropriate armamentarium.	
20.07	Perform a comprehensive periodontal examination, which includes pocket depth, attachment level, recession, mobility, furcations, radiographic findings, and tissue health.	
20.08	Consult with dentists and physicians to verify dental and medical information to develop and implement a dental hygiene care plan. 	
20.09	Interpret and correlate dental radiographs/intraoral images and dental charting with the dental hygiene treatment plan.	
20.10	Perform soft tissue reassessment and evaluate the effects of initial dental hygiene therapy, and make appropriate therapy modifications or referrals.	
20.11	Identify oral manifestations that deviate from normal.	
20.12	Document the diagnosis made by the dentist and dental hygienist.	
20.13	Recognize and respond appropriately to contraindications for dental hygiene treatment found in medical and dental history.	
20.14	Identify and assess dental office emergencies and follow the appropriate protocol for treatment.	
21.0	Perform direct patient services and competently provide the dental hygiene process of care for the child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patient, as well as the special needs patient. The student will be able to:	
21.01	Demonstrate all delegable dental hygiene clinical services within the scope of practice as permitted by Florida statute/law.	
21.02	Communicate to the patient appropriate post-operative instructions and correctly select all necessary self-care therapies intended to restore and maintain the patient’s oral health. 	
21.03	Provide and communicate recommendations for patient use of caries prevention agents.	
21.04	Provide a comprehensive collection of patient data to identify the physical and oral health status, as well as risk factors that could affect patient care and healing.	
21.05	Provide analysis of assessment findings and use of critical thinking in order to address the patient’s dental hygiene treatment needs.	
21.06	Establish a dental hygiene care plan that reflects the desired outcomes and treatment interventions to facilitate optimal oral health.	
21.07	Present proposed treatment and procedures to the patient and obtain appropriate informed consent signatures prior to rendering patient care services. 	
21.08	Provide patient-centered treatment and evidence-based care in a manner minimizing risk and optimizing oral and systemic health.	
21.09	Measure the extent to which desired outcomes identified in the dental hygiene care plan are achieved.	
21.10	Demonstrate the ability to collaborate effectively with an interprofessional healthcare team, using clear and respectful communication to contribute to comprehensive, patient-centered care.	
22.0	Implement and evaluate community health interventions and research activities. The student will be able to:	
22.01	Demonstrate competence in assessment, planning, implementing, evaluating, and documenting community health interventions.	
22.02	Utilize dental indices to assess, interpret, and evaluate oral health status in individuals and populations, supporting community health initiatives and evidence-based decision making.	
22.03	Formulate and analyze research methodologies for community health interventions.	
22.04	Perform a literature search, critically evaluate scientific research, and identify credible, peer-reviewed sources for evidence-based practice.	
22.05	Apply research findings to dental hygiene care delivery.	
22.06	Apply statistical analysis and evidence-based research to health trends and community interventions.	
22.07	Collaborate and perform a needs assessment with community partners.	
22.08	Differentiate the scientific value of literature found in both electronic and traditional media.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools, and equipment, as well as experimental, quality, and safety procedures, are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students. In-depth clinical information and requirements can be found in the Commission on Dental Accreditation Dental Hygiene Standards. 

Special Notes

General education content must include oral and written communications, Psychology, and Sociology.

Biomedical science content must include content in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, general pathology, and/or pathophysiology, nutrition, and pharmacology.

Dental sciences content must include tooth morphology, head, neck, and oral anatomy, oral embryology and histology, oral pathology, radiography, periodontology, pain management, and dental materials.

Graduates must be competent in providing the dental hygiene process of care, which includes:  Assessment, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation. 

This program meets the Department of Health’s education requirements for HIV/AIDS, Domestic Violence, and Prevention of Medical Errors.  Although not a requirement for initial licensure, it is a requirement for renewal, therefore, the instructor may provide a certificate for renewal purposes to the student verifying these requirements have been met.

If students in this program are seeking a licensure, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635, F.S., for more information on disqualification for a license, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health. 

Outcomes 01-11 are referred to as the Health Careers Core and do not have to be completed if the student has previously completed the Core in another health science program.  The Core should be taken first or concurrently with the first course in the program.  Following the successful completion of the core, the student is eligible to take the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio.

General Education Course Requirements for AS and AAS Degrees

State Board of Education Rule 6A-14.030(4), F.A.C., identifies 15 credit hours as the minimum amount of general education coursework required in the Associate of Science (AS) degree and the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.  In addition, Rule 6A-14.0303, F.A.C., implements s. 1007.25, F.S., and requires students entering a technical education degree program in the 2022-2023 academic year, and thereafter, to complete at least one identified core course in each subject area as part of the general education course requirements (15 credit hours total) before a degree is awarded. The core subject areas include: 
•	Communication. 
•	Humanities.
•	Mathematics. 
•	Natural Sciences.
•	Social Sciences.

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

CTSOs are co-curricular career and technical student organizations providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. Other CTSOs not listed in this curriculum framework or recognized by the Florida Department of Education are permissible provided they support student mastery over the standards and benchmarks of this curriculum framework.

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology, and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.