Learning Objectives: 

• Define biohacking and what the movement means to dentistry. 
• Discover how applying AI enhances the patients' understanding of diagnostic concepts and increases case acceptance 
• Interpret how the increased understanding of the airway, occlusion, and the oral microbiome impacts oral health and overall health 
• Analyze how minimally invasive, prescriptive protocols, such as salivary diagnostics and GBT, alter the patient experience and improve clincial outcomes
• Differentiate from case studies, highlightin the functional approach to dental hygiene care. 

The healthcare industry has undergone significant changes over the past five years.  A biohacking movement is sweeping the nation as more Americans are taking an active role in their health by making small, science-driven lifestyle changes.   It is estimated that the market value of the biohacking market will reach 63 billion by the end of 2028.  Medical providers are shifting to a more personalized, prescriptive approach to healthcare for their patients, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to care.  Technological and scientific advancements are ushering in a new era in oral healthcare.  These advances have created numerous opportunities for dental hygienists to practice at the top of their scope, restoring their professional passion and meeting the needs of the unique, fast-growing biohacking market.

This biohacking era presents dental hygienists with a remarkable opportunity to leverage scientific advances through advanced knowledge of the oral microbiome, the oral-systemic connection, the application of AI in diagnostics, DNA/PCR salivary testing, and the Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) workflow. 

Transformation is necessary for biohacking dental hygiene to meet the needs of this changing patient market, improve oral health-related quality of life, and enhance the patient experience.  This course prepares today's dental hygienists to meet the evolving needs of the field.