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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Bachelor of Oral Hygiene 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
111813  Bachelor of Oral Hygiene 
ORIGINATOR
University of Pretoria 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Preventive Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Registered-data under construction" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2021-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2022-06-30   2027-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to ensure that the learner is prepared with sound theoretical knowledge in the scope of oral hygiene practice in South Africa. This theoretical knowledge is then integrated into clinical and community interventions. The qualification will develop cognitive, technological and scientific enquiry capacity and management skills appropriate to the field of oral health.

The qualification should be able to provide appropriately trained professionals with specific knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that will enable them to promote the oral health general well-being of the individual, family and community systems in which they function. The focus is on evidence-based oral health promotion and prevention at a primary health care level within a multi-disciplinary and inter-professional approach to improve health and oral health.

On successful completion of this qualification, learners should be able to:
  • Display an appropriate caring behaviour towards patients and appropriate professional behaviour towards all members of the dental team.
  • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the ethical, professional and legal responsibilities involved in the provision of care to individual patients, to populations and communities.
  • Communicate effectively with patients, their families, relatives and carers and with other health professionals involved in their care.
  • Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the biological sciences, the biopsychosocial model and their role in human functioning in the context of disease and illness.
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of the biological, medical, technical and clinical sciences as relevant to the practice of dentistry.
  • Obtain and record a complete history and examination of the patient's medical, oral and dental state and interpreting the findings in order to evaluate the oral and dental condition of patients.
  • Formulate and record a diagnosis and treatment plan which meets the needs and demands of patients.
  • Provide primary oral health care (as defined in the scope of practice) for patients at all stages in their life (including children, adolescents, adults and the ageing population/elderly) appropriately, effectively and safely.
  • Use current concepts of oral health promotion and prevention of oral disease which support the maintenance of systemic and oral health of individuals, families and groups in the community.
  • Understand the principles and concepts of research to inform evidence-driven oral health practice.

    The graduate will also be able to:
  • Analyse both scientific and clinical data.
  • Form concepts of oral health.
  • Solve clinical problems.
  • Recognise clinical problems that require referral for further management.
  • Reflect critically on own work (academic or clinical).
  • Devise and support arguments for health promotion.
  • Adapt to change.
  • Identify individual patients and groups with oral conditions through effective history taking, clinical examining and the interpretation of clinical findings.
  • Carry out investigative and operative procedures to the highest possible standard within his or her competence for the prevention and treatment of oral disorders and diseases.
  • Promote oral health and prevent oral disorders and diseases.
  • Communicate and work effectively with patients, their families and carers, the dental team, other health professionals and any other relevant person or group.
  • Obtain reliable information efficiently, assess it objectively, adopt a problem-solving approach, set priorities and plan effective solutions.
  • Adopt practices that is safe for the patient, the dental team and others who might be affected.
  • Exercise independent judgment and critical thinking.

    Graduates will also have the following transferable generic skills:
  • Take appropriate responsibility.
  • Work effectively in a team.
  • Communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.
  • Use information and communications technology.
  • Manage effectively patients, resources and time.
  • Learn effectively to facilitate continuing professional development.
  • Work independently.
  • Self-direct their learning

    Rationale:
    The prevalence, distribution and impact of largely preventable oral health diseases place a huge burden on scarce resources within the health system in South Africa. The oral disease profile, potential burden of oral diseases and the oral consequences of health problems indicate that strategies and interventions need to be addressed at various levels such as promotion, prevention, therapeutic and curative measures. Thus health planning within the health system in South Africa needs to consider these various levels of oral health service delivery and ensure that appropriate workforce skills are developed.

    The oral hygienist focuses on preventive and promotive oral health services across primary, secondary and tertiary settings. The dental therapist focuses on primary curative oral health services. Oral health promotion services in South Africa are conducted almost exclusively by the Oral Hygienist. The oral hygienist is thus uniquely placed to provide the required care at primary, secondary and tertiary levels across public and private practice in both rural and urban settings. Given the historical and social context of communities in South Africa across the social and economic spectrum, the oral hygienist is able to provide appropriate oral health care in both disadvantaged communities and in sophisticated high technologically advanced clinical settings.

    The scope of oral hygiene in South Africa was reviewed by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the scope was expanded to include additional clinical functions. The expansion of the scope of practice had to be incorporated into training qualification. Clinical skills and competence for an oral hygiene learner are best developed over a sustained period of time and allowances must be made for maximum clinical exposure. Bachelor's Degree in Oral Hygiene allows for longer clinical and community contact time, thereby ensuring that competence and skills are better developed and sustained.

    The typical learner profile for enrolment in this qualification will include learners that have an interest and dedication to provide oral health in patients across the life spectrum with a particular interest in primary prevention of oral diseases and a recognition of the multi-factorial and systemic influences on oral diseases, including patients with disability.

    Qualified Oral Hygienists will find employment in the full range of dental practices, academia, dental research organisations and the public health sector and have the option of independent private practice. Completion of the qualification may serve as entry point for future Postgraduate qualifications in Oral Hygiene. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate, Level 4 with matriculation exemption and with Biology.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate, Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's Degree studies with Mathematics and Life Sciences.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's Degree studies with Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate personal, professional and ethical conduct and social responsibilities according to national regulations, codes and guidelines.
    2. Apply practice management principles in a clinical oral health care environment and efficiently manage and administer all components of a professional practice.
    3. Understand infection control and apply universal precautions to avoid cross infection and maintain health and safety standards.
    4. Understand and apply health promotion theory and practice, based on current evidence to prevent diseases and promote health and oral health at a public health and individual patient care level, through the development of integrated oral health promotion programmes and interventions.
    5. Select and implement health education strategies at individual and community/group level, through the development of appropriate information, communication and educational initiatives on oral health care.
    6. Explain and apply preventive interventions relevant to the scope of practice.
    7. Explain, assess and apply therapeutic and cosmetic interventions relevant to the scope of practice.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of therapeutic and other duties, relevant to the scope of practice, within the dental specialties. The range includes but is not limited to general Dentistry, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, Oral and Maxilla-facial surgery, Periodontics and Paediodontics.
    9. Conduct a basic research project in the field of oral health. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Understand the rules and regulations governing the scope of oral hygiene practice in South Africa.
  • Use the application of the rules and regulations that are in line with the ethical code of conduct as stipulated by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
  • Reflect the appearance and personal hygiene as an image of professionalism and reflect the chair-side environment.
  • Establish the operator-patient relationship through a caring attitude.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how the patients and staff should be treated with respect, dignity and empathy, regardless of their demographic profile.
  • Recognise and understand the need for multiculturalism and diversity when interacting with patients and communities.
  • Ensure effective communication with all stakeholders, patients and community member.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Understand and explain the following in Business Management:
  • Dynamics in practice management.
  • Operational Skills in practice management.
  • The roles and responsibilities of the various staff.
  • Billing, receiving and account for revenue, journal transactions.
  • Managing stress.
  • Dealing with conflict.
  • Malpractice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of infection control principles; methods of infection control in the dental surgery; optimal infection control practices and instruments used in the dental clinic.
  • Apply these principles in pre-and post-operative clinical procedures.
  • Practice infection control measures such as use of Personal Protective Equipment, scientifically tested disinfectants, and international accepted sterilisation methods.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Conduct a needs analysis.
  • Identify and communicate with relevant stakeholders.
  • Collaborate and form partnerships with stakeholders.
  • Develop an intervention programme in response to local needs.
  • Identify resource need.
  • Implement an integrated programme within a multidisciplinary environment.
  • Identify barriers to this process.
  • Monitor and evaluate the programme.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Select an appropriate health education strategy.
  • Use appropriate educational aids.
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the educational aid.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and skills in the application of:
    (I) Fluoride topical gels.
    (II) Fluoride topical varnishes.
    (III) Fissure sealant applications.
    (IV) Post-operative instructions and patient counselling.
  • Demonstrate sound communication, motivation and education strategies in the management of individual patients of all developmental stages, and conditions or diseases relevant to the scope of practice.
  • Explain the diagnosis, relate this to known risk factors and develop an appropriate motivation, education and counselling programme for the individual patient.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to establish the main oral health complaint and determine how this impacts on the health and well-being of the patient.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to establish and interpret a thorough medical, dental and social/personal history.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to identify, confirm and record intra-oral parameters related to the risk of oral disease (including testing of salivary parameters example Potential of Hydrogen (pH), buffer, stimulated/unstipulated saliva flow; plaque - pH saliva based bacteria tests: Sultans, Lactobacilli.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to take and record the patient's vital signs.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to review and identify risks on the medical and oral health history that may impact on the treatment plan.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the application of various instruments and equipment used in a dental practice.
  • Provide appropriate mechanical and chemical bacterial plaque control programmes individualised to the needs of specific patients and based on scientifically sound strategies.
  • Provide nutritional counselling for general and oral health and record referrals for complicated diet/health relationships.
  • Ability to provide smoking/tobacco cessation counselling and referrals.
  • Assess the needs for, select, explain the rationale, recommend and apply remineralising agents and supplements.
  • Explain the indications for, recommend and apply pit and fissure sealants.
  • Explain the indications for, select and apply appropriate modalities to manage dental hypersensitivity.
  • Explain the rationale for, select and apply appropriate modalities to arrest initial carious lesions.
  • Describe and implement preventive care for patients with special needs.
  • Maintain clinical asepsis throughout procedures.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and the ability to advice on the use of anti-bacterial agents.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to provide health counselling on the cleaning of removable intra-oral appliances/prostheses.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and ability to evaluate removable intra-oral appliances/prostheses and any associated oral conditions for referral as indicated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
    (I) Demonstrate knowledge and skill when performing therapeutic procedures:
  • Purpose and requirements of medical, social and dental history.
  • Rationale for the inclusion of the medical, social and dental history in the questionnaire.
  • Correct use of instruments used during examination.
  • Aim and use of ultrasonic scalar: indications and contraindications.
  • Indications and contraindications for polishing.
  • Proper infection control procedures.
    (II) Demonstrate knowledge and skill for the following therapeutic procedures:
  • Scaling and polishing.
  • Root planning.
  • Placement of temporary dressings.
  • Placement of cervical abrasion resto rations.
  • Monitor wound healings.
  • Splinting of periodontal affected teeth.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and skill in the following cosmetic procedures:
  • Bleaching.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
    (I) Conduct the following through clinical case presentations:
  • Taking of medical dental and social history and its relevance to the proposed clinical procedure.
  • Formulate and explain the proposed treatment plan.
  • Identify and explain the indications and contraindications for the administration of Local Anaesthetic (LA).
  • Demonstrate the correct technique for the administration of Local Anaesthetic (LA).
  • Demonstrate and explain the technique for taking impressions for orthodontic purposes.
  • Demonstrate and explain the technique for taking caps for orthodontic purposes.
  • Demonstrate and explain the technique for casting study models for orthodontic purposes.
  • Demonstrate and explain the method of placing pre-activated brackets and bands for orthodontic purposes.
  • Demonstrate and explain the method of polishing amalgams.
  • Demonstrate and explain the method of placing cervical abrasion restorations.
  • Demonstrate and explain the method of temporary crowns/bridges/inlays.
  • Demonstrate and explain the method of temporary denture re-liners.
  • Demonstrate and explain tooth whitening/bleaching.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Engage in a critical review of the literature.
  • Develop a research proposal using a systematic approach in developing the problem statement, hypothesis, literature review, methods, budgetary allocation, ethical considerations and data analysis.
  • Demonstrate critical reading and academic writing skills; accessing of scientific literature.
  • Assess, critique and apply relevant scientific information.

    Integrated Assessment.
    Forty percent (40%) of the formative assessment contributes to the final mark in each module (except in modules where only continuous assessment applies).

    Formative assessment: summative assessment 40-60. There must be evidence of the integration of knowledge, skills and attitudes (values) across the assessment. In addition, there must be opportunities for learners to show that they are able to demonstrate the achievement of a number of outcomes (both critical and specific) within a single assessment task. The assessment should focus on the application of the learners' learning, not upon the recall of information provided.

    A variety of assessment tools are used, in order to enhance the teaching and learning process and to provide for sufficient opportunity to explore the curriculum fully, and to ascertain their competence in the module. The nature of the assessment will be determined by the nature of the nature of learning. These tools include, amongst others, written tests, clinical assessments, practical exams, oral exams and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). The assessment criteria used are aligned to the learning outcomes, and this assures that the competency of the learners is assessed.

    The structured theory tests are designed to assess knowledge and understanding of the concepts and principles taught. The tests will comprise of case based presentations and short answer questions. An OSCE test is set to ascertain understanding of the application of theoretical knowledge to the clinical environment. The preclinical examination is conducted before the learner start working in the clinical environment. This examination it set to determine if the learner has sound clinical foundation knowledge prior to the introduction to patient management. The clinical assessments are structured to assess clinical skills that are developed in the clinical environment.

    The learner will have to demonstrate knowledge and skill in diagnostics and treatment planning and performing the required clinical management of the patient. The learner is also assessed for professionalism and infection control measures, as well as post-operative instructions to the patient. The oral exams are structured to ascertain the learners' ability and confidence to discuss clinical case presentations that combine theoretical concepts and principles with clinical presentations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Charles Sturt University, Australia, Bachelor of Oral Health (Therapy and Hygiene), Australian Qualifications Framework Level 7. This course is currently accredited by the Australian Dental Council until 31 December 2018. Admission to the course will be based on Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) or equivalent. Assumed knowledge for this course is Higher School Certificate (HSC) English Standard and Chemistry or Biology.

    University of Copenhagen, Denmark, the Bachelor of Dental Hygiene (Dental Hygienist Programme). Approval: Ministry of Education Executive Order 731 2011; Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education and Educational Support; the Agency for Higher Education and Educational Support (25 April 2012). All applicants need to fulfil the requirement of their mother tongue at the highest level (corresponding to Danish A) and English B-Level. The other specific requirements are Mathematics A, Physics B and Chemistry B.

    There is similarity between these qualifications and the Bachelor of Oral Hygiene in terms of regulating body approval, purpose, content and learner cohort. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Dental Therapy, Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Public Health, Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Oral Hygiene Honours, Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.