Module Directory

The module encompasses instructional sessions facilitated by GDC registrants, which deliver both theoretical knowledge and practical demonstrations.

The teaching and assessment of clinical skills are conducted using simulation facilities in the dental skills laboratory. The insights gained from these sessions are directly applicable to clinical placements, allowing students to perform clinical competencies on patients under supervision within the placement environment.

The aims of this module are:

• To provide students with a foundation of essential knowledge and clinical skills.


• To initiate the development of students’ clinical competencies in preparation for their journey toward becoming qualified Dental Hygienists at a foundational and safe beginner level.

By the end of the module, students will be expected to:

1. Effectively demonstrate proper orientation and operator positioning while utilizing appropriate grips and finger rests for a variety of instruments.


2. Outline the various ways infectious agents can be transmitted in dental settings, describe strategies to prevent infection, including handwashing and detail the scientific concepts behind decontamination and disinfection, and explain their significance for health and safety.


3. Obtain, record and maintain contemporaneous medical, dental and social histories of the patient and clinical notes and interpret a treatment plan. Taking social and/or cultural sensitivities into account.


4. Understand the importance of the procedures and uses of a clinical examination during patient assessment. Demonstrating examination of hard and soft tissues (including charting), completion of simple indices and appropriate systemic intra and oral examinations.


5. Monitor and record changes in periodontal health using appropriate methods and provide appropriate evidence-based treatment in line with best practice guidelines.


6. Be able to confidently and safely perform supra stain removal and supra periodontal mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) using sickle scalers and effectively administer prophylaxis polish to patients. 


7. Be able to confidently and safely perform sub-periodontal mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) using Gracey curette scalers and effectively administer prophylaxis polish to patients. 


8. Develop and demonstrate theoretical knowledge and clinical application in dental impression taking, moisture control, isolation techniques and placement of fissure sealants.


9. Formulate, interpret and follow appropriate treatment plans within the scope of a dental hygienist in the best interests of patients.


10. Discuss the scientific concepts related to medical ionizing radiation and the relevant legal regulations, along with their application in clinical settings. By competently prescribing, taking, processing and interpreting the various films used in general dental practice within the scope of a dental hygienist.


11. Practice professionally and apply knowledge in line with progression through the programme in work-based placements in the treatment of patients and in team working, adhering to GDC Standards for Dental Professional


12. Demonstrate the ability to advocate for the health and wellbeing of yourself and others by raising appropriate concerns and taking action when professional performance or relationships are affected


13. Effectively implement strategies for continuous professional development and demonstrate their engagement in ongoing improvement activities to enhance performance in their roles, seeking assistance when necessary.


14. Conduct yourself with honesty and make sure that your behaviour fosters the confidence of your colleagues, patients, and the public in you, your team, and the profession in all settings and channels.


15. Explain the principles of personal development planning, including the documentation of evidence and engaging in reflective practice.


16. Adhere to clinical governance and health and safety standards at national and local levels. Recognising the importance of detailed documentation for equipment maintenance and proper handling of materials. Understand how contextual factors affect patient safety and address them professionally.


17. Communicate using spoken, written, or electronic methods, including those for whom English is not a first language. Demonstrate the ability to address and engage anxious patients or those with emotional trauma and handle difficult topics. Whilst treating all patients, their representatives, the public, and colleagues with care, kindness, and respect.


18. Prevent, diagnose, and manage patient anxiety and pain appropriately, effectively, and safely.


19. Ensure patient care focuses on prevention, considering compliance, and patient self-care to enhance long-term oral and overall health. Discussing how multiple risk factors can impact both oral and general health, and providing relevant advice and support.


20. Recognise and respect the roles of all dental and healthcare professionals by effectively managing and delegating tasks within competencies whilst working in a collaborative team environment.


21. Adopt a patient-centred approach demonstrating dignity and respect to patients, the public, and your colleagues, by ensuring there is no discrimination when collaborating with the dental and broader healthcare teams or patients regarding their choices.

Professional body requirements

In order to meet accreditation requirements, students will be required to pass all of the module assessment components.

Indicative syllabus

The skills lab curriculum provides a foundation in essential dental clinical competencies. It begins with operator positioning, handwashing techniques, and the use of various instruments. Students will learn to interpret patient histories and conduct extra- and intra-oral examinations, along with hard tissue charting and basic periodontal assessments. Skills sessions will cover fluoride application, oral hygiene instruction, and plaque removal using sickle and subgingival scalers. Training in piezoelectric and ultrasonic scaling will reinforce blended methods through case-based applications. Additionally, students will explore isolation techniques for both deciduous and permanent teeth, along with radiology concepts, including safety and legalities. Hands-on practice with impressions and fissure sealants will be incorporated, alongside skills assessments to ensure competency in applying these techniques in real-world scenarios.

This module will be delivered via:

• Practicals (45 hours)
• Drop-in sessions (23 hours)
• Placement (532 hours)

Independent study: Regular guided learning tasks will be set for students using the Moodle virtual learning platform.