Dental Hygiene
News

TC Dental Hygiene Students Post
100% Pass Rate on National Boards

Graduates of the Temple College Dental Hygiene Program -- the Class of 2008 -- posted a 100 percent passing rate on the National Board Examination.

"The pass rates posted by our graduates indicate their continued superior performance in a very difficult field of study," said Norma Maedgen, R.D.H., Ph.D., program director. "These latest graduates will join our alumni as outstanding practitioners and representatives of Temple College and the dental hygiene profession."

It marks the 11th time in as many classes that Temple College has posted a 100 percent passing rate among graduates.

The National Board Examination includes content on the anatomical sciences; physiology; biochemistry and nutrition; microbiology and immunology; pathology; pharmacology; patient assessment; radiology; management of dental hygiene care; periodontology; preventive agents; supportive treatment; community health; and case-based studies.

In addition, TC graduates posted a 100 percent passing rate on the first attempt of the Western Regional Examining Board, a clinical examination in which graduates demonstrate competency in the practice of dental hygiene.

"The scores on WREB are exceptional, with a class average 94.0," said, Dr. Maedgen. "Our board scores show not only the high caliber of students who apply for the dental hygiene program, but also the quality of teaching exhibited by our faculty."

Graduates also posted a 100 percent passing on the Texas Jurisprudence Examination, which is administered by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and tests the graduates' knowledge of the laws and rules/regulations governing dental hygiene and dental practice in the State of Texas.

STUDENT AMERICAN DENTAL HYGIENISTS' ASSOCIATION

First-year student (left) assisting graduate from TC Dental Hygiene Program during annual Sealant Day, part of TDHA "Sealants Across Texas", February 2004.

Students enrolled in the Temple College Dental Hygiene Program all join the Student American Dental Hygienists' Association (SADHA), a professional organization for students. Membership offers benefits such as access to information, employment assistance, continuing education resources, availability of professional products, among others. SADHA members are involved in on- and off-campus activities that promote good oral health and the profession of dental hygiene.

Annual TDHA/SADHA Convention

Many of the Temple College SADHA members attend the annual joint convention of the Texas Dental Hygienists' Association and its student counterpart. Students get the opportunity to meet with students in other dental hygiene programs and practicing dental hygienists in Texas. Students become familiar with parliamentary procedure at the student house of delegates, attend seminars that outline career options, and participate in marketplace fund-raising activities.

Other SADHA Activities

Members of SADHA at Temple College -- along with registered dental hygienists from across the state attend Legislative Lobby Day at the State Capitol in Austin during years the Texas Legislature is in session. Students meet with lawmakers to discuss proposed legislation affecting the profession of dental hygiene. The presence of students and professional hygienists raises the awareness of dental hygiene educational standards and quality patient care for the citizens of Texas.

SADHA members also participate in Spring Fling, a springtime carnival for Temple College students. SADHA, like other student organizations, raises funds at these activities and also promotes good oral health and the profession of dental hygiene.

The student organization also conducts other fund-raising activities during the year, selling such items as toothbrushes and candles.

  TC Home | Dental Hygiene