In this article, we look at dental hygienist schools and the training programs available there. Employment opportunities for dental hygienists are expected to continue rising. This is a good time to enter this profession for anyone interested in making a rewarding career in the dental field.

Who is a dental hygienist?

Dental hygienists are trained professionals who provide preventative care for oral health and treat oral diseases. They work closely with the dentists and assist them in performing important dental procedures such as root canals, extractions, cavity fillings, crown fittings, etc. Dental hygienists duties also include cleaning teeth, taking x-rays and instructing patients on dental hygiene practices.

How to become a dental hygienist?

To become a dental hygienist, one must pass from a dental hygienist school. These schools can be found throughout the U.S. The school and the programs must be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, a specialized accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.

Programs offered by accredited dental hygienist schools are of either two-year or four-year full-time durations. Students who successfully complete a two-year program are awarded an associate degree. This program is offered by community colleges and vocational schools. This program is ideally suited for students opting to work in private dentist’s office.

Students who successfully complete a four-year program are awarded an associate, a certificate or a bachelor’s degree. Graduating dental hygienists are employed in private dental practice, hospitals, clinics, teaching institutions, research facilities, etc.

Master degree programs are available through colleges and universities. It prepares graduates for careers in teaching, administration and research.

Admission requirements vary with schools, but a minimum requirement is a high school diploma with courses in science, mathematics and English. National scholastic test scores or respective college entrance test scores are the other criteria.
The program curriculum includes content in the areas of general education, biomedical sciences, dental sciences and dental hygiene sciences. Clinical practice is required throughout the course duration to ensure that the students attain clinical competence and develop appropriate judgment. The student should also achieve adequate practical patient experience during the program.

How to choose a dental hygienist school?

The accreditation agency has laid down requirements for schools to comply. It would be worthwhile to check and ensure that the school one plans to join complies with these. Some of the requirements are:

• The school should have demonstrated the effectiveness of its programs by a continuous process of planning and assessment. The school should have a successful track record in program completion, graduates obtaining placements, graduates passing licensing examinations, etc.
• The school should be financially sound.
• The programs should be sponsored by institutions of higher education that are accredited by an institutional accrediting agency.
• The school should have a record of active liaison with the dental profession community.
• The school should have a full-time program administrator.
• The faculty of the school should possess baccalaureate or higher degree.
• The school should have prescribed laboratory facilities and classroom spaces.
• The school should provide instructional aids and equipment for student learning.

It is important for an aspiring dental hygienist to choose a school which best suits them. Websites like www.healthguideusa.org and www.ada.org provide extensive information on schools, programs, accreditation, licensing, placements, etc.

Skills you acquire in an accredited dental hygienist school?

A dental hygienist graduating from an accredited school will be competent in providing the dental hygiene process of care for patients of all ages and patients with special needs. They will have good interpersonal skills and will be competent in managing community based oral health programs. They will also be trained in providing life support measures in medical emergencies related to dental hygiene practice.

Dental hygienist schools prepare the aspiring dental hygienist to pursue a rewarding career and provide practical experience with academic learning.