Course Description

This course provides an introduction to modern therapeutic drugs. Dosage forms, sources, prescriptions, and metabolism are covered first, then students study human physiological systems and the most important drugs used to affect these systems. Emergency and new drugs are included. This course addresses coverage of pain and anxiety management for conscious dental clients. The indications, contraindications, and pharmacology of local anesthesia and nitrous oxide and oxygen sedation used in dentistry will be discussed. Local anesthesia techniques and the administration of nitrous oxide and oxygen sedation will be studied. Students will be introduced to general anesthesia, parenteral sedation and anti-anxiety medications. Administration of local anesthesia techniques will be performed. (3 lecture and 1 hour lab weekly) Prerequisite: Admission to the Dental Hygiene Program.
Not part of a TN Transfer Pathway.