Enhancing Student Homecare Education Through iTOP: An Innovative Teaching and Assessment Approach

1 hour course, sponsored by Curaden/Curaprox This course introduces educators to an innovative teaching method with an accompanying assessment module designed to enhance dental hygiene students’ skills in delivering effective, evidence-based homecare instruction. Delivered as a live, interactive guest lecture, the session provides students with a focused, engaging approach to learning preventive homecare that can be applied directly in clinical settings. The method emphasizes individualized mechanical biofilm control, accurate technique, and thoughtful selection of homecare tools—core elements shown to influence patient adherence and long-term preventive outcomes. Through applied learning and assessment, students develop stronger skills in delivering precise and effective homecare instruction. This innovative method is called iTOP (Individually Trained Oral Prophylaxis), developed by Curaden Academy and implemented in universities worldwide as a prevention-focused, evidence-based approach to mastering homecare techniques. The virtual student format functions as a “mini iTOP,” introducing key principles in an engaging, clinically relevant way.. A defining element of the method is Touch to Teach (T2T)—a hands-on, interactive strategy that reinforces proper technique and individualized instruction. Student learning is reinforced through an assessment module designed to evaluate understanding, skill application, and effectiveness of homecare instruction. This course offers educators insight into how a structured student iTOP method can enhance student skills in homecare education while aligning with CODA standards related to preventive care, patient education, and evidence-based clinical practice—ultimately helping students make a greater impact on patient homecare and oral health outcomes.