This program is designed for students who are interested in exploring community dental health.Those with documented credentials within the Dental industry may be able to receive credit towards coursework in CNM Dental Science programs via Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). Community Dental Health Coordinators (CDHC) are health care workers who help promote oral health in underserved communities. A CDHC is essentially a Community Health Worker (CHW) with an emphasized skill set related to oral health. Working under the direction of a Dentist and in partnership with a community clinic, CDHCs will provide oral health education, prevention intervention, provide low level dental care, and help patients navigate an often complex public health system to receive adequate oral health care. CDHCs will be working in the communities, peoples’ homes and other locations under the same concept and realm of a CHW. The CDHC will also establish an emergency triage system and an organized oral health referral system with the Community Clinic or Federally Qualified Health System and dentists with whom they will be working.
Minimum Credit Hours Required to Complete Certificate: 33
* Students credentialed as CDA, RDH, or NM Radiation Health and Safety certification and documented sufficient dental employer experience may be awarded Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).
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