Get the entire collection of self-study dental CE courses from Today's RDH.
Get instant access for one full year to all self-study CE courses for one low price. You also get free access to all future self-study CE courses released within one year of purchase. Buy now & take at your own pace!
All dental CE courses are peer-reviewed and non-sponsored to focus solely on quality, unbiased education. Course progress is saved along the way, so you can start now and finish at your own pace. CE certificates are issued immediately upon course completion and passing a quiz.
TODAY'S RDH IS A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ADA CERP AND AGD PACE CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDER. ALL COURSES MEET THE STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL WITH ADA CERP AND AGD PACE.
Course Topics Include:
AAP Guidelines
Cardiovascular Disease
HIPAA Review
Human Trafficking
Infection Control
Lasers in Dentistry
Medical Errors
Nitrous Oxide Administration
Opioids / Pain Management
Oral Cancer
Oral Pathology
Oral-Systemic Link
Radiology
And many more! (See below for full course list.)
Get the Complete CE Bundle for only $199. That's an incredible value at less than $4.00 per CE credit!
Warning: Today's RDH reserves the right to increase the price of this bundle without notice. Lock in the lower price by purchasing today and avoid paying more later. Get started now.
Courses You Get Access to With the Complete CE Bundle
You will be able to take the following courses at your own pace. Course progress is saved along the way, so you can start now and finish later. CE certificates are issued immediately upon course completion and passing a quiz. Click to expand full course details below.
Author: Spring Hatfield, RDH, BSPH
Spring Hayes Hatfield, RDH, BSPH, is a graduate of Florida State College at Jacksonville, and she holds licensure in Florida, Louisiana, and Alabama. Spring is on the Advisory Board and holds the position of Continuing Education Manager at Today’s RDH. Her passion is elevating the dental hygiene profession through science, education, and clinical excellence. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading, and spending time with her husband, children, and the animals at her useless animal farm. She can be reached via email at Spring@TodaysRDH.com.
Credits: 4.00 CEU
Course Description: Participants of this course will be presented with information to refresh, review, and expand their knowledge of infection control in a dental setting. A brief overview of OSHA standards is included. The focus is to provide the participant with tools and knowledge to provide a safe working environment for both patients and dental health care personnel. In addition, specific guidelines are provided for writing an effective infection control program as well as maintaining a sharps injury and needlestick log, as required for dental practices.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Describe the components of a well-written infection control program;
• Identify which infectious diseases require patient care restrictions;
• Understand the importance of hand hygiene, cough etiquette, PPE, and sharps safety;
• Explain the need for handpiece reprocessing, care of dental unit waterlines, and disinfection of environmental surfaces;
• Recognize OSHA standards, hazard recognition, control, and prevention;
• California dental professionals: Describe minimum standards for infection control according to Section 1005.
Topic(s): Infection Control
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: April 1, 2021
Course Review Date: March 25, 2024
Course Expiration Date: March 24, 2027
AGD Subject Code(s): 148
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-001-2021-04-4
California Course Code: 04-6066-23001
California Disclaimer: This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 2 units of infection control continuing education and 2 units of general continuing education. Dental Board of California license number for Today's RDH: 6066
New York Disclaimer: This course is an approved Infection Control course by the New York State Education Department. Provider ID# IC 218.
Author: Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS
Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS, has been a clinical dental hygienist in private practice in Tucson, AZ, since graduating from Rio Salado College in 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at Northern Arizona University, Summa Cum Laude, in 2014. A regular volunteer at St. Elizabeth’s Health Center Dental Clinic, she also enjoys writing, research, and traveling in her spare time.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: This course will review the most common medical errors associated with the practice of dentistry. Dental professionals will acquire tools to recognize potential medical dental errors related to recordkeeping, informed consent, adverse treatment outcomes, infection control, and the standard of care. Strategies will be discussed to reduce medical dental errors and malpractice to keep patients safe from harm.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand dental negligence and malpractice;
• Describe the most common medical errors in dentistry;
• Recognize errors associated with informed consent and the maintenance of dental patient records;
• Describe errors related to improper dental equipment maintenance and infection control procedures;
• Identify errors associated with prescribing medication, sedation, and administering local anesthesia;
• Implement strategies to reduce medical errors in the diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and referral of dental patients;
• Summarize the standard of care and evidence-based research.
Topic(s): Medical Errors
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: December 1, 2022
Course Expiration Date: November 30, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 159 Prevention of Medical Errors
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-042-2022-12-2
Author: Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS
Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS has been a clinical dental hygienist in private practice in Tucson, AZ, since graduating from Rio Salado College in 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at Northern Arizona University, Summa Cum Laude, in 2014. A regular volunteer at St. Elizabeth’s Health Center Dental Clinic, she also enjoys writing, research, and travel in her spare time.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: This course will cover concepts associated with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the documented regulations as they apply to dentistry. Dental professionals are included entities who must take steps to protect their patients' health information. Dental practices must update their notice of privacy practices, create written plans, conduct a risk assessment, update business associate agreements, understand how to prevent breaches, and have protective processes in place to address a breach, should it occur. This document is meant to be a summary of key elements of HIPAA rather than a complete or comprehensive guide to compliance.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define HIPAA;
• Describe a basic understanding of HIPAA compliance requirements;
• State policies and ways to implement an in-office HIPAA compliance program;
• Discuss the role of the HIPAA privacy and security officers;
• Explain patient options and rights under HIPAA;
• Recognize HIPAA breaches and how to mitigate these events;
• Describe the penalties for violation of HIPAA regulations.
Topic(s): HIPAA
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: December 1, 2021
Course Expiration Date: November 30, 2024
AGD Subject Code(s): 566
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-013-2021-12-3
Author: Syeda Ijaz, RDH, BDS
Syeda Ijaz, RDH, BDS, moved to the U.S. with her husband in 2004 from her native country of Pakistan. As a dentist back in her country, she had to pause pursuing her career in the U.S. because she wanted to focus on the proper upbringing of her children. Once her youngest started attending school, she wanted to reconnect to dentistry again. Dental hygiene appealed to her as it gave her a perfect balance between work and home. She is a graduate of the Collin College Dental Hygiene program. For Syeda, providing dental hygiene is a service that improves people's lives. Coming from another country, she understands immigrants' hurdles and hesitations in seeking dental help. Her passion is to help underserved communities understand the dental system and educate them about oral hygiene.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at an elevated risk of developing periodontal disease. This relationship is two-way and multifactorial. Some of these factors include increased levels of inflammatory markers in gingival tissues, bone abnormalities, medications, and oxidative stress in patients with renal disease. In addition, diabetes and hypertension are two other systemic conditions linked to both periodontal diseases and renal disease, which can exacerbate risk for one or both conditions. Along with reinforcing the importance of routine preventive dental care, proper oral health education for CKD patients can reduce oral complications, decreasing the load of gingival inflammation and other predisposing factors resulting from renal disease.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define chronic kidney disease (CKD);
• List the stages of CKD;
• Explain the relationship between CKD, hypertension, diabetes, and periodontal disease;
• Identify the potential oral manifestations of CKD;
• Discuss management strategies for patients who exhibit oral symptoms of CKD.
Topic(s): Oral-systemic Link
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2022
Course Review Date: December 30, 2024
Course Expiration Date: December 29, 2027
AGD Subject Code(s): 010
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-014-2022-01-2
Author: Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS
Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS has been a clinical dental hygienist in private practice in Tucson, AZ, since graduating from Rio Salado College in 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at Northern Arizona University, Summa Cum Laude, in 2014. A regular volunteer at St. Elizabeth’s Health Center Dental Clinic, she also enjoys writing, research, and travel in her spare time.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: This course will provide an overview of tobacco use, explain the mechanism of action and chemical composition of tobacco, and provide an understanding of currently available tobacco products and their impact on dental patients. Dental professionals will gain strategies to increase their educational role about tobacco use and cessation recommendations.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Describe basic knowledge of the history of tobacco;
• Explain the basics of nicotine addiction;
• Identify the harmful constituents of tobacco;
• Recognize tobacco and nicotine products currently available on the market;
• Discuss the impact of tobacco products on oral health;
• Define the role of dental professionals in tobacco cessation;
• Classify the current tobacco cessation modalities available.
Topic(s): Tobacco Cessation
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: June 1, 2021
Course Review Date: May 31, 2024
Course Expiration Date: May 30, 2027
AGD Subject Code(s): 158
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-001-2021-06-2
Author: Spring Hatfield, RDH, BSPH
Spring Hayes Hatfield, RDH, BSPH, is a graduate of Florida State College at Jacksonville, and she holds licensure in Florida, Louisiana, and Alabama. Spring is on the Advisory Board and holds the position of Continuing Education Manager at Today’s RDH. Her passion is elevating the dental hygiene profession through science, education, and clinical excellence. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading, and spending time with her husband, children, and the animals at her useless animal farm. She can be reached via email at Spring@TodaysRDH.com.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: Participants of this course will be presented with information that will help them better understand the oral-systemic link as it applies to cardiovascular disease. This will include the discovery of the link, common risk factors, and possible biological mechanisms by which the connection occurs as well as host response. Special emphasis will be placed on the pathways − direct invasion, platelet aggregation, immune response, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress − to help the clinician better understand the link between oral and systemic disease.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Recognize the risk factors associated with both oral infections and cardiovascular disease;
• Discuss intra-individual variations that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and oral disease;
• Understand the pathways and biological mechanisms in a way that enables dental professionals to easily communicate and educate their patients;
• Identify how and when the oral-systemic link associated with cardiovascular disease was discovered;
• Recognize that host response plays a role in the onset and progression of disease.
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 010, 490
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-001-2021-01-3
Author: Spring Hatfield, RDH, BSPH
Spring Hayes Hatfield, RDH, BSPH, is a graduate of Florida State College at Jacksonville, and she holds licensure in Florida, Louisiana, and Alabama. Spring is on the Advisory Board and holds the position of Continuing Education Manager at Today’s RDH. Her passion is elevating the dental hygiene profession through science, education, and clinical excellence. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading, and spending time with her husband, children, and the animals at her useless animal farm. She can be reached via email at Spring@TodaysRDH.com.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: Participants of this course will be presented with information to expand or reinforce their knowledge of the use of nitrous oxide in dental settings. This will include safety, toxicity, best practices, as well as administration for adults and children. Indications and contraindications will be covered to help clinicians and patients make an informed decision and determine if they are a good candidate for the use of nitrous oxide as a sedative and analgesic.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand the benefits and risks associated with nitrous oxide use in dental settings;
• Describe proper documentation for nitrous oxide use;
• Review proper administration for children and adults to ensure safety;
• Recognize indications and contraindications for use to better inform patients and prevent a medical emergency;
• Explain uptake and recovery time to assist in patient decision-making in reference to sedation.
Topic(s): Nitrous Oxide (Adults & Children)
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 010, 340
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-003-2021-01-3
North Carolina Disclaimer: This course is not board approved for the specific North Carolina nitrous oxide requirement.
Author: Brooke Sergent, RDH, BS
Brooke Sergent, RDH, BS, graduated cum laude from Big Sandy Community and Technical College Dental Hygiene program in 2004, where she was also the recipient of the Colgate S.T.A.R. award. In 2005, she moved to East Tennessee and earned her Bachelors in Science from Tennessee Tech University based in Cookeville, TN. Brooke served on the Colgate Oral Health Advisory Board in Piscataway, NJ, in 2013. In 2014, she organized a Colgate Bright Smiles Bright Future Event for a local elementary school. Brooke currently works in private practice and serves as a BURST Ambassador.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: Human trafficking is a rapidly expanding crime in which law enforcement and governmental agencies are making strides to cease and contain. This course will provide a comprehensive background of this global social issue and help dental professionals identify potential human trafficking victims by learning to recognize key factors associated with the crime.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Identify key indicators in the forms of human trafficking;
• List the four common venues used for the promotion of sex trafficking;
• Identify the two common forms of sex trafficking and their individual traffickers;
• Describe the key factors that play a role in the individuals that fall victim to sex trafficking;
• Discuss the methodology used to recruit victims for the purpose of human trafficking;
• Recognize the specific language used in human trafficking;
• Identify key factors, including oral indications, for identifying potential human trafficking victims;
• Recognize the five most common STDs found within the sex trafficking victim;
• Describe six behavior mannerisms that human trafficking victims exhibit;
• Understand the relationship between captor and victim;
• Discuss the symptoms and factors behind Stockholm syndrome;
• Discuss the relationship between substance abuse and sex trafficking;
• Identify the five most used drugs involved with sex trafficking crime;
• List the six questions that the dental professional can ask to identify a potential human trafficking victim;
• Discuss the five methods the dental professional can utilize to help decrease the incidence of human trafficking.
Topic(s): Human Trafficking
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 130, 166
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-004-2021-01-2
Texas Disclaimer: This course does not count as human trafficking training as required by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
Author: Meghan Greening, RDH, BSDH, EFDA
Meghan Greening, RDH, BSDH, EFDA, attended The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. While in school, she discovered her passion for periodontics and oral pathology. She currently works in private practice where she performs clinical dental hygiene as well as writes educational articles for the office’s newsletter. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, exercising, and spending time with her husband and family.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: Patients present with a wide range of intraoral lesions. This course will address some of the most common precancerous, cancerous, and benign oral pathologies that dental professionals may see in clinical practice. Oral lesions can be symptoms of systemic diseases, viral disorders, or fungal manifestations. This course will clarify processes for staging and grading various types of oral cancers and describing oral cancer treatment modalities. The course will also cover the scalpel biopsy versus other adjunctive biopsy tools and the documentation of oral lesions found chairside.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Perform a thorough intraoral exam;
• Identify normal and abnormal oral lesions;
• Differentiate between potentially malignant and nonmalignant lesions;
• Understand the staging systems of oral cancer;
• Recognize oral manifestations of common systemic and viral diseases and disorders;
• Recognize the importance of the scalpel biopsy as the gold standard;
• Understand standards in practice for the documentation of oral lesions.
Topic(s): Oral Pathology
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 730
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-005-2021-01-2
Author: Dr. Joy D. Void-Holmes, RDH, BSDH, MHSc, AADH
Dr. Joy D. Void-Holmes holds a Doctor of Health Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and is a registered dental hygienist with over 25 years of clinical experience in private practice. She is the founder of Dr. Joy, RDH™, and creator of the Dental Hygiene Student Planner™. Dr. Joy is a program chair for Fortis College, Landover Dental Hygiene Program, and holds a faculty position at the American Denturist School. Dr. Joy is a professional speaker and published author. She has presented continuing education courses nationally and internationally in the areas of instrumentation, ultrasonics, infection control, and nutrition and biochemistry, whitening, and glass ionomers, along with her signature keynote, Confidence and Courage. She serves as a Consultant Examiner for the CDCA examination board and is Past-President of The Maryland Dental Hygienists' Association. She is an active member of The American Academy of Dental Hygienists, The American Dental Hygienists' Association, and The Maryland Dental Action Coalition.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: The significance of the relationship between oral health and overall health continues to be stressed in medical literature. Dental professionals have a responsibility to educate patients about the connection between nutrition, diet, and oral health. As such, it is essential for dental hygienists to have a comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in conducting a thorough nutritional assessment. This understanding will help dental professionals effectively gather information about the dietary habits of their patients and use the findings to recognize key factors in the oral-systemic relationship. The outcomes from the dietary assessment will also position the dental hygienist to successfully provide nutritional counseling to patients with the goal of promoting successful behavior change toward whole-body health.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Explain the importance of integrating oral health with diet and nutrition;
• Recognize the role that diet and nutrition play in the development, growth, and maintenance of oral structures;
• Identify the components needed to conduct a nutritional assessment for a patient;
• Describe the steps for a nutritional counseling session.
Topic(s): Health Medicine and Nutrition
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 130, 150
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-006-2021-01-2
Author: Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS
Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS has been a clinical dental hygienist in private practice in Tucson, AZ, since graduating from Rio Salado College in 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at Northern Arizona University, Summa Cum Laude, in 2014. A regular volunteer at St. Elizabeth’s Health Center Dental Clinic, she also enjoys writing, research, and travel in her spare time.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: Salivary diagnostics is a non-invasive, economical tool to identify changes in the human body's oral and systemic health. This course will review the role of dental professionals in using saliva testing modalities to diagnose oral and systemic diseases.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand the physiology and biochemistry of saliva;
• Understand the basic concept of salivary biomarkers;
• Understand changes in salivary biochemistry and physiology exhibited when oral and systemic disease is present;
• Apply the applications of saliva diagnostics in the dental office;
• Describe the role of dental professionals in diagnosing oral and systemic disease using salivary diagnostics.
Topic(s): Oral Diagnosis & Oral Pathology
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 730
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-008-2021-01-3
Author: Joy Raskie, RDH
Joy Raskie, RDH, has been a Registered Dental Hygienist in Colorado since 2003. She holds multiple laser degrees, including a fellowship, associate fellowship, and advanced proficiency in laser dentistry. Joy is the CEO of Advanced Dental Hygiene, a company that specializes in hands-on dental laser education. Joy is a world-renowned lecturer, conducts live and online laser training courses, and does in-office laser consulting. Joy is a passionate hygienist whose goal is to boost excitement and confidence in using and incorporating dental lasers into daily practice. Contact Joy at AdvancedDentalHygiene.com or email JoyRaskieRDH@gmail.com.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: This course introduces the various types of lasers in dentistry with a focus on lasers used to complete dental hygiene procedures. The course explains how light is created inside a laser and how that light interacts with various oral tissues. Upon course completion, the learner will understand the role lasers play in the mediation of the inflammatory process, the numerous laser procedures performed by the dental hygienist, and the effects of lasers used within the oral cavity.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand how lasers produce light;
• Identify the various types of lasers in dentistry;
• Understand how lasers interact with oral tissues;
• Identify the role of laser use in the inflammatory process;
• Learn the laser procedures that relate to dental hygiene therapies;
• Learn how photobiomodulation (PBM) is used in dentistry;
• Understand safety protocols related to laser use.
Topic(s): Lasers
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: January 1, 2021
Course Review Date: December 26, 2023
Course Expiration Date: December 25, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 130, 135
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-007-2021-01-3
Author: Anne O. Rice, BS, RDH, FAAOSH, CDP
Anne O. Rice, BS, RDH, FAAOSH, CDP, is a graduate of Wichita State University, then continued her studies and earned a bachelor’s degree in oral health promotion. She is a graduate of the BaleDoneen Preceptorship course for cardiovascular disease prevention for health-care practitioners. After almost 30 years of clinical care, she found Oral Systemic Seminars and is passionate about educating the community on all things oral-systemic health and is focused on prevention strategies for dementia and those relationships in dentistry. She is a monthly contributor to Today’s RDH, and has also written for other dental publications. In 2020, Anne became a Fellow with the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health, a Certified Dementia Practitioner, and became Certified as a Brain Longevity Specialist with the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation. Please reach out to Anne, anneorice@gmail.com or visit her website www.anneorice.com.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: Dentistry is an effective health care field that can impact Alzheimer's disease. Through prevention and education, dental professionals can positively impact those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Dental providers use an arsenal of assessment protocols directly coinciding with modifiable Alzheimer's risk factors every day. Oral health professionals can provide innovative insight, reaching the public in ways other health care providers may not consider. Alzheimer's is a condition with various etiologies and pathophysiological processes. Some of these include cardiovascular health, smoking, sleep, inflammatory pathogens, and diabetes. In the United States, dental providers assess each of these factors daily and can be instrumental in educating patients on the influence of these factors on dementia prevention. By 2025, the number of people with Alzheimer's disease is expected to increase by at least 14% globally. Such increases may strain local and national health care systems. Yet, for the U.S., if Medicare were expanded to include dental services, it may have a considerable impact on the health and wellness of the older adult population. Dentistry may be modified slightly, adapting it to provide valuable education to patients during preventive care and when treating potential disease risk factors.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Describe Alzheimer's disease and its immense impact within the United States;
• Recognize the potentially positive effect of extending Medicare dental benefits as related to Alzheimer's disease;
• Identify key risk factors of Alzheimer's disease;
• Discuss the positive action steps the dental community can take to assist in the Alzheimer's fight;
• Relate the connection between oral-systemic health and Alzheimer's disease.
Topic(s): Oral-systemic Link, Alzheimer's
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: September 1, 2021
Course Review Date: August 30, 2024
Course Expiration Date: August 29, 2027
AGD Subject Code(s): 010
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-001-2021-09-2
Author: Brooke Sergent, RDH, BS
Brooke Sergent, RDH, BS, graduated cum laude from Big Sandy Community and Technical College Dental Hygiene program in 2004, where she was also the recipient of the Colgate S.T.A.R. award. In 2005, she moved to East Tennessee and earned her Bachelors in Science from Tennessee Tech University based in Cookeville, TN. Brooke served on the Colgate Oral Health Advisory Board in Piscataway, NJ, in 2013. In 2014, she organized a Colgate Bright Smiles Bright Future Event for a local elementary school. Brooke currently works in private practice and serves as a BURST Ambassador.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: While preventable, tooth decay proves to be the most prevalent chronic disease in both children and adults. This course will educate dental professionals about the role pH plays in contributing to dental caries and explain how the dental professional can intervene to assist their patients in prevention.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Identify the bacteria responsible for dental decay;
• Describe the scientific process of dental decay;
• Recognize the three layers of the human tooth;
• List the properties of the human tooth layers;
• Define the importance of the salivary components and flow in the oral biome;
• Discuss the importance of pH levels of the oral cavity;
• Explain the effects of pH level fluctuation;
• Compare the pH values of beverages and their negative effect on enamel;
• Summarize titratable acidity and its role in dental decay;
• Outline dental erosion and its causative factors;
• Determine the role of the dental professional in disrupting poor dietary habits.
Topic(s): Caries Prevention
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: November 1, 2021
Course Expiration Date: October 31, 2024
AGD Subject Code(s): 430 Pediatric Dentistry
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-023-2022-03-2
Author: Kaitlyn Machado, RDH, BS, MEd, FADHA
Since a very young age, Kaitlyn Machado, RDH, BS, MEd, FADHA, has always wanted to be a dental hygienist. She was the youngest student to graduate from her dental hygiene class in 2017. Since then, Kate has returned for her bachelor's and master's degrees. She is a faculty member at her local dental hygiene school and a clinical dental hygienist. Kate has been a part of Today's RDH since its launch. She is extremely passionate about homecare, loves her prophy paste and fluoride varnish, and enjoys attending professional conferences. In addition, Kate loves to work with a local non-profit organization that helps fight against hygiene insecurity of all ages in her community. As a lifelong learner, she enjoys being as involved as possible in the dental hygiene profession. When Kate isn't working, she enjoys traveling, sports, watching movies, and spending time with her amazing, supportive family.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: As dental professionals, we attempt to personalize our care based on the needs of each patient. Patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have specific medical and social concerns requiring modifications and considerations to treatment. Participants who complete this course will learn the characteristics, treatment considerations, and recommendations for treating ASD patients in dental settings.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define ASD common characteristics;
• Recognize oral conditions commonly experienced by patients with ASD;
• Understand ASD treatment modifications and considerations;
• Explain the benefits of establishing a treatment plan, goals, and recommendations to patients with ASD and their caregivers.
Topic(s): Autism / Pediatric special needs patient care
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: March 1, 2022
Course Expiration Date: February 28, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 250
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-001-2021-11-2
Author: Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS
Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS has been a clinical dental hygienist in private practice in Tucson, AZ, since graduating from Rio Salado College in 2011. She completed a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at Northern Arizona University, Summa Cum Laude, in 2014. A regular volunteer at St. Elizabeth’s Health Center Dental Clinic, she also enjoys writing, research, and travel in her spare time.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: This course is designed to review commonly abused substances and describe the oral health effects of substance abuse. Participants will gain tools for recognizing potential substance abuse and to support patients in the process of substance abuse cessation.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand the stages of drug abuse;
• Differentiate between physical and psychological dependence;
• Recognize various oral conditions associated with substance abuse;
• Determine a treatment management approach for patients with substance abuse disorder;
• Identify clinician/patient communication strategies;
• Utilize available resources to support patients interested in cessation.
Topic(s): Substance Abuse
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: April 1, 2022
Course Expiration Date: March 31, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 157 Substance Abuse
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-023-2022-04-3
Author: Kaitlyn Machado, RDH, BS, MEd, FADHA
Since a very young age, Kaitlyn Machado, RDH, BS, MEd, FADHA, has always wanted to be a dental hygienist. She was the youngest student to graduate from her dental hygiene class in 2017. Since then, Kate has returned for her bachelor's and master's degrees. She is a faculty member at her local dental hygiene school and a clinical dental hygienist. Kate has been a part of Today's RDH since its launch. She is extremely passionate about homecare, loves her prophy paste and fluoride varnish, and enjoys attending professional conferences. In addition, Kate loves to work with a local non-profit organization that helps fight against hygiene insecurity of all ages in her community. As a lifelong learner, she enjoys being as involved as possible in the dental hygiene profession. When Kate isn't working, she enjoys traveling, sports, watching movies, and spending time with her amazing, supportive family.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Course Description: One of the first steps in the sequence of comprehensive patient care is a thorough review of the patient’s social and medical history. Dental professionals may not be familiar with certain medical conditions patients present with. Parkinson's disease, a progressive medical condition that affects an individual physically, may alter the daily life of patients diagnosed with the condition, including their oral health status and continual needs for dental care. Participants who complete this course will learn about the background, characteristics, treatment modifications, and recommendations for patients living with Parkinson's disease.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define common characteristics of Parkinson's disease;
• Understand the effects of Parkinson's disease in the dental care setting and daily living;
• Identify oral conditions, pharmacology, and dental complications associated with Parkinson's disease;
• Modify treatment plans, recommendations, and goals based on the needs of a patient diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
Topic(s): Parkinson's Disease / Special Patient Care
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: August 1, 2022
Course Expiration Date: July 31, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 750 Special Patient Care
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-032-2022-08-2
Author: Nick Timko, BSME, RDH
Nick Timko, BSME, RDH, has an Engineering Science degree from SUNY Broome Community College in Binghamton, New York, and a Mechanical Engineering degree from Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York. He became an Advisory Engineer at IBM Corporation, designing computer cooling systems and later writing IBM Standards as the site Location Standards Authority for hardware, software, and manufacturing standards. Nick earned his first and second level Invention Achievement Awards for his designs and his first and second level Author’s Recognition Awards, publishing over 20 papers for both internal IBM use and also for external publication in trade press magazines. In 1993, he took a leave of absence from IBM and re-careered, once again at SUNY Broome, becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist. He worked for Carman Family Dentistry in Endicott, New York, where he wrote 192 monthly newsletters on dental topics of interest to patients. He has published four books on topics such as the Czech Velvet Revolution of 1989, Alzheimer’s Disease, and his two careers in engineering and dental hygiene. He currently serves on SUNY Broome’s Dental Hygiene Advisory Council. He spent many years performing as a drummer and currently enjoys painting as a hobby.
Credits: 3.00 CEU
Course Description: Participants of this course will review the composition of saliva, as well as the histology, anatomy, and physiology of the human salivary glands. This course offers information on the tubarial salivary gland, intending to provide new insight into emerging science and evidence for this previously unidentified anatomical feature of the head and neck. Specific attention is given to the areas of biochemistry, buffering capacity, and pathology of salivary glands. This course is designed to assist clinicians in obtaining a better understanding of saliva and salivary glands, and their role in oral health, while also providing decision-making information regarding patient care.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Recognize the histology, anatomy, and physiology of human salivary glands;
• Explain the clinical importance of xerostomia regarding nutrition, oral health, and quality of life;
• Analyze the biochemistry of human saliva;
• Propose options to maximize saliva buffering capacity;
• Recall the Stephan Curve as it applies to biofilm pH changes after sugar exposure;
• Apply the material of this course to improve the clinical care of patients.
Topic(s): Saliva/pH
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Written Course
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: September 1, 2022
Course Expiration Date: August 31, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 010
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-033-2022-09-3
Presenter: Dr. Emily Boge, EdD, RDH, CDA
Wife, mother, farmer, student, college administrator, educator, inventor, public health advocate, businesswoman, researcher, writer, speaker--yet always a dental hygienist--Emily has worn many hats over the course of her 20 years in the dental industry. She takes pride in utilizing her inquisitive mind and honest attitude to lead faculty at her college, influence manufacturers to listen to dental professionals in product innovation, and transform students into entry-level professionals, promoting the use of inner accountability, tenacity, and empowerment. Emily is currently in her final semester of coursework before beginning her dissertation journey, studying to receive her EdD in Higher Education Organizational Leadership. As a native rural Iowan, Emily is married to a fifth-generation family farmer and machinist, and they live on their crop farm with their two sons, Luke and Erik. Emily enjoys cooking and baking, target shooting, four wheeling, reading, and shopping.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: This course explores protocol for pathologic assessments in dental clinical settings. It includes processes for having pathology discussions with patients chairside, documenting conditions found during assessment, and reporting the information to the patient to follow-up after pathology or potential pathology has been noted.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Describe the concepts of disease versus health in the mouth;
• Assess to detect potential abnormalities in tissues at every preventive appointment;
• Describe lesions using appropriate terminology;
• Determine whether lesions are a variant of normal or potential pathology;
• Document data from the patient assessment;
• Present relevant data to co-practitioners for continuity of care;
Topic(s): Oral Pathology
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: December 10, 2022
Course Expiration Date: November 30, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 730
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-044-2023-01-2
Presenter: Shelley Brown, MEd, BSDH, RDH
Shelley Brown, MEd, BSDH, RDH, has worked in a variety of dental settings and has been in academia for 11 years and in dentistry for 21 years. She's an educator for Baccalaureate level students at The Utah College of Dental Hygiene.
Shelley co-runs Hygiene Edge, whose goal is to inspire dental professionals to be their best, promote industry best practices and help educators navigate the clinic and classroom. Their YouTube channel has over 17 million views on their helpful videos. Through Hygiene Edge, she creates videos and blogs and professionally co-speaks on topics such as Anesthesia, Oral Hygiene Education, Adolescents, Clinical Updates, and AAP classifications. She also runs a podcast called Hygiene EDGEucators, providing helpful content catered to dental educators.
Shelley also owns Homebound Smiles, where she provides care to our elderly population who needs it the most. Shelley is an award recipient of the 2021 Today's RDH Honor Awards and has served as the Secretary of the Utah Dental Hygienists' Association.
Presenter: Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH
Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH, COO of Hygiene Edge and Assistant Professor of Dental Hygiene at Utah Tech University, is passionate about all things dental hygiene.
Jessica has been in the dental field for 23 years with experience as front office staff, dental assistant, and dental hygienist. She has been in education for 10 years. As the COO of Hygiene Edge, she seeks to "educate, grow, and inspire" with dental professionals throughout their careers with helpful videos, podcasts, and other educational content.
Education is Jessica's joy, from educating patients, students, and anyone else who comes across Hygiene Edge's YouTube channel. She has presented both nationally and internationally to continue educating, growing, and being inspired with her fellow dental professionals.
Jessica is the recipient of the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Element Award and the Utah Tech College of Health Sciences Outstanding Service Award. She is a past president of the Utah Dental Hygienists' Association and is a member of the American Dental Hygienists' Association.
Presenter: Melia Lewis, MEd, BSDH, RDH
Melia Lewis, MEd, BSDH, RDH, grew up in the dental world. With 14 years of dental hygiene experience, four as a dental assistant, and hundreds of continuing education hours, she loves to learn and stay up to date on the latest technologies. She is a current adjunct faculty member at Utah Valley University and the Utah College of Dental Hygiene and works in a family private practice in Utah. Her passion is helping dental hygienists feel empowered and supported, as well as educating the public on how awesome dental hygienists are to their oral and overall health. If she's not talking about teeth and health, she can be found in the mountains with her family and Goldendoodle pup. Melia can be reached at melia@hygieneedge.com
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: Are you currently documenting the 2018 AAP classifications on every patient? The standard of care necessitates that each patient has an AAP classification in health, gingivitis, or periodontitis. Implants have become commonplace in the oral cavity and also need an AAP classification assigned and documented when present. This course discusses how to accurately assign an AAP classification for each patient wherever they fall on the health-to-disease spectrum.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Identify the AAP classifications for health;
• Review the AAP classifications for gingivitis;
• List the three AAP classifications for implants;
• Describe staging of periodontitis according to the 2018 AAP classifications;
• Explain grading of periodontitis according to the 2018 AAP classifications.
Topic(s): AAP Guidelines
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: December 10, 2022
Course Expiration Date: November 30, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 490
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-045-2023-01-2
Presenter: Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC
Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Dental Hygienist. She is a full-time dental hygiene educator in Texas. Kandice is the owner of Inspired Education & Wellness, where she is a speaker, writer, and private practice therapist. Kandice is an approved provider under Texas Health and Human Services for human trafficking training for healthcare professionals. She combines her clinical dental and mental health experience to help other healthcare professionals have a fulfilling work-life experience. Read her articles in Today's RDH and her blog on Facebook titled Fearless Compassion: Stories of Personal Triumph. Contact Kandice at www.kandiceswarthout.com or on social media @The Counselor Hygienist.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: Eating disorders affect millions of people each year. Many go undiagnosed and untreated due to the shame and the secret nature of eating disorders. One misconception is that these disorders are a choice, and the patient can return to normal eating simply by will or force. Eating disorders are serious mental wellness issues requiring a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This course will define and list different types of eating disorders and describe the physical, psychological, and oral manifestations. The dental professional is perfectly positioned to recognize and respond to patients that suffer from eating disorders. Learn not only oral health applications but how to approach the patient with a trauma-informed mindset.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define eating disorders and identify a variety of types;
• Describe the diagnosis and epidemiology of anorexia, bulimia nervosa, binge eating, compulsive overeating, compulsive over-exercising, night-eating syndrome, and sleep eating disorder;
• Outline the psychological consequences of eating disorders;
• Identify the oral signs of eating disorders;
• Explain a trauma-informed care mindset with treating eating-disordered patients.
Topic(s): Eating Disorders/Oral Manifestations
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: December 10, 2022
Course Expiration Date: November 30, 2025
AGD Subject Code(s): 130
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-046-2023-01-2
Presenter: Lancette VanGuilder, RDH, BS
Lancette VanGuilder, RDH, BS, graduated from the University of South Dakota in 1995 and has spent the last 25 years actively involved in the dental industry as an author, speaker, clinician, and public health advocate.
Lancette resides in Reno, Nevada, and is a past president of the Nevada Dental Hygienists' Association. She is a past recipient of the Nevada Dental Hygienist of the Year and received the Innovative Career Vision Award for her work in all seven professional roles of the dental hygienist. She served on the board of directors for the American Dental Hygienists Association and has been honored at the national level by receiving the ADHA Irene Newman Professional Achievement award, recognizing her for her contributions to advancing the art and science of the dental hygiene profession over the last 15 years.
Lancette is an internationally recognized continuing education speaker and serves as a key opinion leader in the dental industry, and has been featured on several podcasts. She works as a clinician in private practice, owns/operates a mobile dentistry business, developed an AGD PACE-approved national CE company, and volunteers as a vaccinator with Battle Born Medical Corp in Nevada.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: Prevention, education, and early diagnosis are key to any type of cancer. Oral cancer is no exception. Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers start in the mouth or throat. It is estimated that one American dies every hour, every day, from oral cancer. The lifetime risk of developing oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer is about one in 60 for men and one in 140 for women. Several factors can affect the risk of developing mouth and throat cancer. This course will expose oral cancer facts and myths and is intended to educate the entire dental team on the crucial role that they can play in oral cancer education, prevention, and screening. New strategies will be discussed that can be implemented immediately.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Recall signs, symptoms, and risk factors for head and neck cancers;
• Identify newly discovered risk factors for oropharyngeal cancers;
• Recognize the oral-systemic link with oral and oropharyngeal cancers;
• Address the HPV vaccination as an oral cancer prevention tool.
Topic(s): Oral Cancer
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: February 10, 2023
Course Expiration Date: January 31, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 730
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-060-2023-05-2
Presenter: Pat Brinkman-Falter, RDH, MS, COM
Pat Brinkman-Falter, RDH, MS, COM, is board-certified in orofacial myology and owns Nebraska Myofunctional Specialties. She is a professional continuing education speaker on courses in airway, birth to six oral development, newborn airway development, recognizing myofunctional disorders, TMD pain management, and tethered oral tissues.
Pat is a member of the American Dental Hygienists' Association, the International Association of Orofacial Myology, the American Academy of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry, the Association of Applied Myofunctional Sciences, and the creator of the "SPOTS" myofunctional screening tool. She has held several leadership positions within the Nebraska Dental Hygienists' Association, including president and delegate. Pat has received numerous awards, including Young Dental's Hygienists Who Make a Difference in 2013, Nebraska Dental Hygienists' Association Dental Hygienist of the Year in 2013 and 2024, the ADHA Irene Newman Outstanding Clinician Award in 2015, and the IAOM Rosemarie Van Norman Prevention Award in 2020.
Her years of experience with tongue thrust, digit sucking, TMJD, and other areas of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders have been hugely successful. Pat has an innovative approach, allowing the patient to achieve overall confidence by providing an individualized, positive treatment plan. Pat has practiced orofacial myology since 2008 in Central and Eastern Nebraska. She and her husband have seven children and ten grandchildren.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: This course is perfect for the dental hygienist exploring the role of the Myofunctional Therapist. Myofunctional therapists are in a unique position to treat the muscular dysfunctions that usually accompany temporomandibular (TMD) joint dysfunction. TMD can result from a variety of issues, from musculature imbalance, malocclusion, and other traumatic events. Along with these commonly known factors, postural imbalances can also impact the TMJ. This course explores the causes of TMD, treatment options including traditional and newer techniques, as well as understanding a team approach to care. This lecture will include a hands-on demonstration of myofascial release, a discussion of therapy techniques, myofunctional and speech therapy, and the use of CBD oils and low-level light therapy for inflammation reduction and analgesia.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Identify the TMJ joint anatomy;
• Describe common TMD muscle pain referral patterns;
• Recognize additional methods of pain reduction that complement myofunctional therapy;
• Use simplified myofascial release techniques and touch movements;
• Recommend general dietary guidelines to help healing and collagen production.
Topic(s): TMJ Pain Management
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: February 10, 2023
Course Expiration Date: January 31, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 200
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-061-2023-05-2
Presenter: Tina Clarke, RDH, M.Ed
Tina Clarke, RDH, M.Ed, is the leading voice in anesthesia dental education. From head and neck anatomy, health histories, and practical tips and tricks to getting anesthesia right every time, Tina employs adult learning principles, equipping her course attendees for success.
A nationally published author, speaker, certified CPR instructor, and founder of Teacher Tina RDH, she keeps her skills and knowledge current while continuing to serve the profession as a clinician, educator, trainer, and speaker. Tina is an approved provider by the Oregon Board of Dentistry to provide education for the initial permit for local anesthesia and the American Academy of Dental Hygiene as a continuing education provider.
Her teaching, training, and presenting style is upbeat and fun, making even the most difficult topics a delight to learn.
Tina has been a clinical dental hygienist for over 20 years and an educator for nearly 15. She received her bachelor's degree in dental hygiene in 2001 and her master's degree in education in 2013.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: The prevention, preparation, and management of emergency situations common in the dental environment are crucial. This course walks the learner through the process of preventing and preparing for medical emergencies that may occur in dental settings. Students walk away confident in their skills to prevent, prepare, and manage an emergency in the dental office.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• List measures to prepare and prevent a medical emergency;
• Identify the emergency supplies and drugs in the emergency kit;
• Explain how emergency supplies and drugs in the emergency kit are used;
• Discuss medical emergency protocols;
• Recognize and properly manage common medical emergencies in the dental office.
Topic(s): Medical Emergencies
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: March 25, 2023
Course Expiration Date: February 28, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 142
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-074-2023-12-2
North Carolina Disclaimer: This medical emergencies course is not specifically approved for North Carolina's medical emergencies course requirement.
Presenter: Pat Brinkman-Falter, RDH, MS, COM
Pat Brinkman-Falter, RDH, MS, COM, is board-certified in Orofacial Myology and owns Nebraska Myofunctional Specialties. She is a professional continuing education speaker on courses in airway, birth to six oral development, newborn airway development, recognizing myofunctional disorders, TMD pain management, and tethered oral tissues. She is a member of ADHA, the International Association of Orofacial Myology, the American Academy of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry, the Association of Applied Myofunctional Sciences, and the creator of the "SPOTS" Myofunctional Screening Tool. She has held several leadership positions within the NDHA, including president and delegate. Pat has received numerous awards, including 2013 Young Dental's Hygienists who make a difference, 2013 Nebraska Dental Hygienist of the year, 2015 ADHA/Colgate Irene Newman Award for the advancement of dental hygiene, and 2020 Rosemarie Van Norman Prevention Award.
Her years of experience with tongue thrust, digit sucking, TMJD, and other areas of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders have been hugely successful. Pat has an innovative approach allowing the patient to achieve overall confidence by providing an individualized, positive treatment plan. Pat has practiced Orofacial Myology since 2008 in Central and Eastern Nebraska. She and her husband have seven children and nine grandchildren.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: All Tied Up is the identification of the tethered oral tissues within the oral cavity, how to recognize and assess them, and their consequences. Recently tongue and lip ties have dominated social media, with nonprofessionals diagnosing from posted pictures. Not only is this dangerous, but it threatens the professional image of "missing the diagnosis" and the consequences to the dental industry. This course will include a look into the definition and the history of tethered oral tissues, embryological developments, genetics, and nutrition affecting development and how it affects oral function throughout life. The chairside assessment utilizes an objective, measurable instrument developed in Brazil and refined by this speaker. Case studies will be shared.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Review embryological development of the tongue and frenal attachments;
• Understand genetic considerations relating to tethered tissues;
• Identify nutritional needs for pregnancy and beyond;
• Recognize intraoral and extraoral signs of tethered tissues;
• Discuss indications for tethered tissue treatment;
• Employ assessment of tethered oral tissues in the clinical dental setting.
Topic(s): Tongue Tie
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: March 25, 2023
Course Expiration Date: February 28, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 130
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-061-2023-05-2
Presenter: Lancette VanGuilder, RDH, BS
Lancette VanGuilder, RDH, BS, graduated from the University of South Dakota in 1995 and has spent the last 25 years actively involved in the dental industry as an author, speaker, clinician, and public health advocate.
Lancette resides in Reno, Nevada, and is a past president of the Nevada Dental Hygienists' Association. She is a past recipient of the Nevada Dental Hygienist of the Year and received the Innovative Career Vision Award for her work in all seven professional roles of the dental hygienist. She served on the board of directors for the American Dental Hygienists Association and has been honored at the national level by receiving the ADHA Irene Newman Professional Achievement award, recognizing her for her contributions to advancing the art and science of the dental hygiene profession over the last 15 years.
Lancette is an internationally recognized continuing education speaker and serves as a key opinion leader in the dental industry, and has been featured on several podcasts. She works as a clinician in private practice, owns/operates a mobile dentistry business, developed an AGD PACE-approved national CE company, and volunteers as a vaccinator with Battle Born Medical Corp in Nevada.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: Pain is now considered a global health issue and may affect each and every one of us in our life in one way or another. With mounting evidence demonstrating the high prevalence of pain in today's society, it is important to raise awareness about the pain epidemic and discuss the many facets of pain, such as assessment, treatment, and mismanagement. This course has been designed to enhance the role that dental providers play in providing a collaborative approach to patient-centered and comprehensive care and addressing the opioid crisis. Risk factors, addiction, new trends, and pain management guidelines will all be discussed.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand the physiological and psychological aspects of pain;
• Comprehend the opioid crisis and addiction;
• Identify alternative pain management strategies.
Topic(s): Opioids / Pain Management
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: March 25, 2023
Course Expiration Date: February 28, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 340
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-060-2023-05-2
Presenter: Dr. Emily Boge, EdD, RDH, CDA
Wife, mother, farmer, student, college administrator, educator, inventor, public health advocate, businesswoman, researcher, writer, speaker--yet always a dental hygienist--Emily has worn many hats over the course of her 20 years in the dental industry. She takes pride in utilizing her inquisitive mind and honest attitude to lead faculty at her college, influence manufacturers to listen to dental professionals in product innovation, and transform students into entry-level professionals, promoting the use of inner accountability, tenacity, and empowerment. As a native rural Iowan, Emily is married to a fifth-generation family farmer and machinist, and they live on their crop farm with their two sons, Luke and Erik. Emily enjoys cooking and baking, target shooting, four wheeling, reading, and shopping.
Credits: 2.00 CEU
Description: This course meets the requirements for periodic radiology safety training, including radiology history and basic radiation science. It provides an array of current topics relevant to registrants and licensees in various practice settings.
Objectives - Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Understand the evolution of ionizing radiology health and safety over the last 100+ years;
• Investigate options available in current dental x-ray equipment and utilize current appropriate precautions in the use of said equipment;
• Compare the benefits and challenges presented with various types of digital sensors and plates;
• Discuss hands-on tips and tricks for obtaining quality digital imaging;
• Demonstrate skills to prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation by understanding the Recommendations for Patient Selection and Limiting Radiation Exposure (2012) and expand on applying these recommendations to a patient care protocol;
• Employ safety concepts of tracking cumulative radiation, including environmental radiation.
Topic(s): Radiology
Course Type: Self-Instructional / Self-Study
Instructional Method: Video Presentation
Location: Online
Prerequisites: None
Technology Requirements: Computer (recommended), tablet, or smartphone and an internet connection
Program Provider: Today's RDH (support@todaysrdh.com)
Original Course Release Date: March 25, 2023
Course Expiration Date: February 28, 2026
AGD Subject Code(s): 730
AADH Course Code: AADHTDH-066-2023-10-2
North Carolina Disclaimer: This radiology course is not specifically approved for North Carolina's radiology course requirement.
Get all the courses listed above for only $199! You won't find a better value for such high-quality CE!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these CE courses meet the requirements for my state?
Today's RDH is an ADA CERP and AGD PACE provider, both of which are recognized by all 50 states. Today's RDH is also an American Academy of Dental Hygiene (AADH) approved provider of continuing education courses. These courses are on-demand and are considered self-study/self-instructional. They include a quiz that must be passed upon completion of each course to receive your CE certificate of completion for that course.
Your state's Dental Practice Act, which can be found on your state's Board of Dentistry/Board of Dental Examiners website, includes your allowable duties, CE requirements, the rules pertaining to your state, etc. We highly encourage all dental healthcare professionals to check their state's Dental Practice Act often as rules, regulations, and CE requirements can change.
Are these CE courses considered "live" or "in-classroom?"
No, these courses are on-demand and are considered self-study/self-instructional. You can take these courses on your own time and are required to pass a quiz upon completion of each course to receive your CE certificate of completion for that course.
Is the bundle of CE courses a subscription service where I will be charged on a recurring basis?
No, this is a one-time purchase that gives you one full year of access to all the current CE courses listed and any future CE courses that are released during the year from your purchase. After one year, you will need to repurchase to have continued access.
Does this bundle give me access to the live virtual events that Today's RDH puts on?
No, this bundle is separate from the Today's RDH live virtual events, and the bundle only provides access to current and future on-demand courses listed on this page.
How often will new courses be added, and what topics will they be on?
New courses will be added as time goes on. Since we've launched in February 2021, we have released new courses approximately once ever 6 - 8 weeks. We make no guarantees of having certain topics by a certain date but are working on adding the most popular topics required by most State Dental Boards. All currently available courses are listed on this page, so if you don't see a course or topic listed, it means we don't have it yet.
Are these courses considered a "clinical" or "core" courses?
To figure out if these courses are considered clinical or core for your specific state, you need to check your state's Dental Practice Act, which gives the requirements and what is accepted. For states where a particular course isn't a requirement, the course is still considered an elective self-study course and can be used to fulfill your elective self-study requirements.
How long will I have access to take the courses in this bundle?
You will have one full year from the time of purchase to access and complete the courses. You will also have access to any new courses released throughout the next year from your purchase. After one year from your original purchase date, you will need to repurchase the bundle if you want to continue to access the courses.
Do I have to take a course all at once?
No, your progress will be saved every time you complete a module within each course, so you are able to take breaks and complete the courses at your own leisure.
Are there any additional fees beyond the cost of the bundle?
No, all fees are included in the price of $199 for this bundle! Depending on where you live, there may be sales tax, but no additional fees.
When will I be able to access the courses in the bundle after I purchase them?
You will have immediate access to take the courses in the bundle once you register and your payment goes through.
Are there test questions at the end of each course?
Yes, upon completion of each course, you will be required to take a quiz to show comprehension of the course. Upon successfully passing the quiz, you will be issued a CE certificate of completion for that particular course that you are able to download and save for your records.
How do I get my certificate/proof of completion? Will it be emailed?
Your CE certification completion will be awarded upon successfully completing the quiz at the end of each course. The certificate will be available in your account that you create upon enrolling in the course, but you are also encouraged to save this certificate on your own device. A link to access the certificate in your account will also be emailed to you (check your SPAM box), but not the actual certificate itself. However, just click the link, log in to your account, and you will have access to the certificate.
Are there refunds?
There will be no refunds issued once you have completed a course and received a CE certificate of completion. If you haven't completed the course and received a CE certificate of completion, you have 30 days to request a refund.
Are these courses only for hygienists, or can doctors and dental assistants receive CE too?
These courses are primarily designed for dental hygienists but can be taken by doctors and dental assistants for CE credit.
Can Canadians receive CE credit for these courses?
Canada recognizes CE courses that have AGD PACE approved providers, so yes. However, we cannot guarantee, so we always recommend checking with your governing agency to confirm approval.
What devices can I take this course on?
You can take this course from any device with an internet or data connection, including laptops, desktops, tablets, or your smartphone.
Why aren't these CE courses free?
To offer CE courses at no cost, we would need to have sponsors (i.e., manufacturers or companies) pay for the expenses of creating and maintaining the courses. We have chosen to keep these CE courses free from sponsorship and focus 100% on providing objective education for our audience.
Who can I contact if I have more questions or feedback on future CE course topics?
You can reach us anytime at support@todaysrdh.com. If you don't receive a response within 48 hours, please check your SPAM folder.
