Title: Measuring Progress in Oral Health
Course: DES 2701 Community Oral Health > Section: Module 4 - Measuring Progress in Oral Health

Introduction

This module introduces Healthy People 2020 and the national goals and objectives. The importance of using these objectives when developing community programs is stressed on the national, state and local levels. Oral health surveillance systems are introduced along with the types of measurements that are utilized in those systems.

Dental hygiene students should be educated on the standardized methods of measurements that are used to assess health of a population. Dental hygienists may have opportunities to be directly involved in assessing the health of the community. Dental hygienists should have a good understanding of the oral health surveillance system and how they may be involved in this process.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Discuss the national Healthy People initiatives.
- Describe the oral health objectives of Healthy People 2010 and 2020.
- Discuss measures used to assess oral health in populations.

Readings & Resources

Community Oral Health Practice for the Dental Hygienist. Geurink. 3rd ed. Chapter 4, pgs 76-114.

Assignments & Activities

- Post in the Module 4 Discussion Board.
- Complete the Module 4 Reflective Assignment.
- Complete the Module 4 Quiz.