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

The aims of this module are:

• To enhance students’ knowledge and clinical skills,


• To enable students to develop their 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. Describe and identify the clinical presentations of oral dental diseases including the peri-implant tissues and acute oral conditions, relevant to the role of a Dental hygienist and explain the principles underpinning their diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, and use this to formulate a personalised treatment plan.


2. Assess the necessity of supplementary chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of periodontal issues for specific patients. Apply antimicrobials where appropriate to manage periodontal diseases


3. Appreciate the apparatus required for administering dental local anaesthesia and how it is used. Commence developing practical competence in administering the full variety of local anaesthetic techniques required of dental hygienists and have an awareness of common complications.


4. Demonstrate knowledge of the legal framework surrounding the use of dental local anaesthesia and different local analgesic agents along with their mode of action;


5. Understand the hygienist’s role in temporary restorative care within their scope of practice by identifying common materials used for temporary restorations and re-cementation. Applying theoretical concepts behind temporary restorative care and procedures.


6. Discuss the underlying theoretical knowledge behind the practicalities of adjusting restored surfaces, and indicate when it may be appropriate for the hygienist to adjust a restored surface.


7. Competently develop supragingival, subgingival PMPR and debridement skills on complex anatomy using advanced powered and manual instrumentation such as curved inserts, advanced fulcrums and revisiting site-specific instruments.


8. Demonstrate safe debridement in less-than-ideal situations by consider how hands-on treatment may have to be modified depending on the patient’s circumstances.


9. Adopt an evidence-based approach to clinical practice


10. To effectively capture clinical photographs, select appropriate equipment for various scenarios and evaluate the value and suitability of your photographs.


11. Evaluate the impact of new techniques and technologies in clinical practice, such as guided Biofilm therapy and air polishing.


12. Engage with your healthcare community by assessing your own skills and seeking guidance when required. Recognising how contextual factors influence healthcare and its effects on professionalism.


13. Effectively manage your own time and resources and act with integrity to ensure your actions maintain the trust of colleagues, patients and the public in you and the profession across all platforms and media.


14. Demonstrate involvement with systems and personal tactics that support and uphold physical and mental health. Identifying how and when to respond if wellbeing is threatened and potentially it impacts an individual's responsibilities or professional roles.


15. Continue to apply the scientific principles of medical ionizing radiation and statutory regulations in practice. By completing a radiography portfolio.


16. Engage in clear and considerate communication through verbal, written, and digital channels with the public. Interacting with compassion, empathy, and respect in all professional dealings with patients, their representatives, the public, and colleagues.


17. Understand and implement the principles of personal development planning, including documentation of evidence and reflection. Demonstrate responsibility in self-improvement and maintaining professional knowledge by engaging in continuous improvement activities

Professional body requirements

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

Indicative syllabus

The advancing clinical practice module develops on the first years content by using case-based sessions. It also covers more advanced clinical skills such as clinical photography, treating special needs patients, Local anaesthetic, air polishing, advanced techniques and sharpening techniques.

This module will be delivered via:

• Clinical skills lab practical demonstration (45 hours)
• Drop-in sessions (23 hours)