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I. ASSESSMENT
For the purpose of tailoring a retraining program, both knowledge and skills are analyzed to identify areas which need development and competency. A self assessment tool provides insight in the
areas needing the most attention. This is done during the application process. All candidates are pre-qualified through a phone interview.
II. INSTRUCTIONAL PLAN
Based on the assessments, a
recommended individualized retraining program is planned. The program will include the following:
A. a suggested number of seminar hours and dental science topics
B. clinical prerequisites and reading assignments
C. number of clinic hours and patient/client classifications
D. an observation and practice time schedule
E. recommended target dates for completion
III. FACILITIES
Lectures and clinical practice are located at various sites around Connecticut that are suitable to clinical education. All retraining adheres to the Connecticut State Law Practice Act.
Other states practice act are reviewed and consultation to the applicant is provided.
IV. FACULTY
Instructors are experienced licensed dental hygienists with varying backgrounds and expertise in
education, general and periodontal practice, pediatric public health services, and corporate sales. All are CPR certified.
V. TYPE OF INSTRUCTION
A. Individualized and small group instruction
facilitates an ideal environment. Strategies for teaching include lecture/discussion, peer interaction, demonstrations, self directed activities, and hands on practice. Continuing education courses that support
the goals may be recommended in conjunction with this program. Audio visual aides, typodont models and patients/clients support the learning process.
B. Course manuals and selected readings are provided.
Textbook readings are required for the hygienist out of practice for an extensive period of time. Instructional visual aides, typodont models, and instruments are available for study/practice.
VI. EVALUATION
Because of the nature of this retraining program, self evaluation of skills and knowledge are critical to achieving competency. PLS instructors will guide, direct and advise the learner
throughout the program. Competency is based on successful completion of the prescribed program and an instructor's recommendation.
VII. LICENSE REINSTATEMENT
This program is accepted by, but not
limited to, Connecticut, Massachusetts New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Illinois, Virginia and Vermont State Boards of Dentistry or equivalent authorizing agencies as a continuing education re-entry
requirement. Outside the Northeast, other states have accepted this program for continuing education and/or licensure re-activation. The Canadian Dental Hygiene Registry has approved this course for re-entry
training. Most State Boards recognize the dental hygiene refresher program for continuing education license requirements.
Prior approval and a re-activation application is required by some State regulatory
agencies before registering for this course.
PLS is approved provider of continuing education by the Academy of General Dentistry #210805 (6/1/07 - 5/31/11) and the American Academy of Dental Hygiene (01-01/10 - 12/31/10).
Arrangements, preparation and
successful completion of any required State practice exam, when mandated by the Dental Commission/Public Health Department or any other authorizing agency, is independent of PLS Refresher Program training.
VIII. PROGRAM COMPLETION
Upon successful completion of program requirements, the dental hygienist will receive
-a certificate of program completion
-continuing education credit
-letter to authorizing state board by request
-letter of recommendation by request
IX. RESOURCES
To assist the hygienist in reconnecting with the profession, PLS provides information on placement
services, professional organizations, professional journals and magazines, products and other services.
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