Do you find it fascinating to see people’s teeth flicker and glimmer? Or are you someone who is concerned about their dental health and the well-being of their teeth? Do you have a strong desire to take part in dental care activities? If yes, one of the top Dental Hygienist Schools will be a good fit for you.
As a result, it will be highly beneficial to read this article thoroughly and without hesitation, because it covers all of the facts and materials you require and are expected to learn about dental hygienist schools around the world.
Included are their tuition, the world’s most prestigious dental hygienist schools to attend, as well as their acceptance ratios and locations.
What is dental hygiene?
Dental hygiene is the technique of keeping one’s mouth clean, and it is often regarded as the most effective way of avoiding cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, periodontitis, and other dental problems. It also aids in the prevention of foul breath (halitosis).
To keep their teeth and mouth healthy, everyone needs to practice good oral hygiene. Cavities are less common in healthy teeth. They’re spotless and have little to no plaque buildup. Gums that are healthy are pink and firm.
Oral hygiene is divided into two categories: personal and professional. Routine professional examinations frequently include dental X-rays (radiographs).
Who is a Dental Hygienist?
A dental hygienist is a dentist who teaches proper oral hygiene and does patient assessments, oral exams, and teeth cleanings. In addition, the dental hygienist works in a dental clinic, hospital, nursing home, or another healthcare facility under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
A dental hygienist is also a preventative oral doctor. He checks for indicators of oral illnesses and then instructs people on how to properly care for their teeth in order to maintain their happiness.
Why study dental hygiene
Dental hygienists are vital members of the preventative healthcare team. They check patients for oral disease, educate them on correct oral hygiene, and clean their teeth to help them maintain good oral health. After their cleanings with the dental hygienist, many clients leave the dentist’s office feeling revitalized. More information on the role can be found below:
Below are the reasons to study dental hygiene:
- A positive Outlook
- Excellent Work-Life Harmony
- Rewarding Career
- Comfortable Salary
- Flexibility
A positive Outlook
Dental hygienists have a promising future. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that this job would rise by 6% between 2019 and 2029, substantially faster than the national average.
Due to an aging population and their need for dental care, the need for dental hygienists is on the rise. And, as new research highlights the relevance of dentistry in overall health, the BLS anticipates an increase in the need for dental hygienists.
Excellent Work-Life Harmony
Dental hygienists have a good work-life balance, in addition to the numerous job alternatives available. Unlike nurses and doctors, who are frequently called into work late or must cover holiday and weekend shifts, a dental hygienist’s schedule is consistent and predictable.
Most dental hygienists after graduating from dental hygienist schools work conventional business hours and can even work part-time if they want to. This gives you plenty of time to spend with your family and pursue your personal hobbies.
Rewarding Career
On a daily basis, dental hygienists interact with patients. They clean teeth, examine oral health, and obtain X-rays or any other necessary dental health documentation and dental hygienist schooling. Dental hygienist responsibilities differ by state, according to the BLS, and governments are increasingly allowing hygienists to work at the top of their training.
Good oral health is vital for general health, as many health professionals have stated in recent years. Oral health problems have been related to a variety of chronic illnesses, including heart disease, pneumonia, and diabetes.
Dental health is obviously important for general health. When you assist patients in maintaining good dental health, you are also assisting them in maintaining good overall health and avoiding more significant health problems.
Dental hygienists have a strong relationship with their patients and grow to know them over time. Patients frequently discuss their personal and professional life during routine cleanings and checkups.
If you are a people person who enjoys meeting new people, the profession of dental hygienist could be ideal for you. You are not only assisting your patients in cleaning their teeth, but you are also making a personal connection and developing relationships while working. Head to a dental hygienist school or online dental hygienist school of your choice.
Comfortable Salary
Dental hygienists make an excellent living and only require an associate’s degree. Dental hygienists earn a median pay of $76,220 per year on average depending on your dental hygienist schooling.
How to become a dental hygienist
Dental hygienists may be in charge of distributing preventative information, providing oral health education, and providing treatment advice to patients. In addition, diseases and oral lesions are identified, and dental hygiene practices are managed.
- To work as a dental hygienist, you must first obtain a license from the Dental Hygiene Committee (DHCC).
- Graduate from an Accredited Dental Hygiene Program or dental hygienist schools
- Scale throuhg National Board Written Examination
- Pass the Clinical Dental Hygienist Examination
- Pass the Dental Hygiene Committee Law and Ethics Written Examination
- Apply for Licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienista
- Maintain Your Dental Hygienist License
Dental Hygienist Work Descriptions
Dental Hygienists are vital and important in the healthcare sector. Aside from treating teeth disorders which is their main function, they have tons of roles they play that distinguished them from other health professionals.
In sum, dental hygienist job roles are as follows:
- They clean teeth, inspect gums, take medical histories, and instruct patients on proper dental hygiene.
- Patients of dental hygienists polish their teeth with a motorized gadget that functions similarly to an automatic toothbrush.
- They also use an air-polishing apparatus to remove stains and tartar from patients’ teeth, which sprays a mixture of air, water, and baking soda.
- Patients may also receive advice on how to choose toothbrushes and other oral care products.
- These individuals also analyze patients’ dental health and communicate their results to dentists.
- Some dental hygienists utilize x-ray machines under the supervision of a dentist to look for tooth or jaw abnormalities.
- Dental hygienists are allowed to detect certain health conditions without the help of a dentist in some areas.
As you can see, there are many things you may do as a dental hygienist today to help people smile.
Dental Hygienist Salary
They treat problems with the mouth, gums, and teeth of their patients. Extracting teeth, fitting dentures, and treating cavities are among their responsibilities.
Some opt to specialize in areas such as treating major oral issues and diseases, as well as tooth straightening and oral surgery. These programs are available in dental hygienist schools
They are also responsible for cleaning the teeth of patients, and dental assistants, who assist with record-keeping and instrument sterilization.
Entry Salary: $104,300
Average Salary: $215,250
Dental Hygienist Job Prospect
Dental hygienists have a bright future ahead of them. Indeed, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that between 2019 and 2029, this job will grow by 6%, far faster than the national average.
The demand for dental hygienists is increasing as the population ages and their dental needs increase. The BLS forecasts an increase in the demand for dental hygienists as new research underlines the importance of dentistry in overall health.
Dental hygienist associate’s degree
There are three levels of dental hygiene instruction available in dental hygienist schools. You can start a career at any level, but you won’t be able to work as a professional dental hygienist unless you have a master’s degree.
Each level of schooling, on the other hand, has distinct tasks and job titles. As a result, the fact that they have specific tasks indicates that their coursework and curriculum are not the same.
The associate degree is the most basic. This associate degree in dental hygiene prepares you for general dental hygienist activities. You may work in most private dental offices with an associate degree and licensing.
The prerequisites for enrolling in a dental hygiene program vary depending on the dental hygienist’s schools and degree level. For example, the prerequisites for applying for an associate degree differ from those for a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree.
You’ll need between 8 and 12 hours of hands-on practice every week to earn an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene. Then, with a GPA of 2.5 or above in the following courses: Anatomy, Biology, Chemistry, and Sociology, you must complete the prerequisites.
Dental hygienist education requirements
Admission requirements for dental hygiene programs vary depending on the dental hygienist schools and degree level. The requirements for an associate degree, for example, differ from those for a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree.
To get an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene, you’ll require between 8 and 12 hours of hands-on practice every week. Then you must finish the prerequisites with a GPA of 2.5 or above in the following courses: Anatomy, Biology, Chemistry, and Sociology.
To pursue an undergraduate degree, you must first pass prerequisites and have a GPA of 2.5 or above. When applying for a Master’s degree, a GPA of 3.0 or higher is necessary, as well as verification of a current dental hygienist license, acceptable GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a current resume.
Top 15 Best Dental Hygienist Schools
Dental hygienist programs are available at a variety of reputable and comprehensive dental hygienist schools all around the world. However, we have chosen the top 15 from among them, though in no particular order;
- University of Michigan
- New York University
- University of Southern California
- Ohio State University
- Texas A&M
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Minnesota
- North Dakota State College of Science
- University of Washington
- University of North Carolina
- Oregon Institute of Technology
- University of South Dakota
- Taft College
- Farmingdale State College
- Ferris State University
#. University of Michigan– Dental hygienist schools
The University of Michigan is one of the greatest colleges in the world for dental hygiene students. The school of Dentistry offers a two-year bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene.
However, you should be aware that the school’s requirements are extremely stringent, as students are typically allocated a large amount of schoolwork. However, this is primarily for the purpose of preparing students to become effective dental hygienists in the future.
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Tuition: $15,262
Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
Acceptance Rate: 23%
#2. New York University- Dental hygienist schools
New York University also features one of the world’s greatest dental schools. Deserving students can enroll in a 17-month dental hygiene program at the university. It is a very competitive college due to its strong teaching standards and excellent learning facilities.
Location: New York City, New York
Tuition: $51,828
Faculty to Student Ratio: 9:1
Acceptance Rate: 6%
#3. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California is another fantastic dental hygienist schools with excellent dental programs. A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene is available at the school.
In addition, the school has a very good system in place that will allow pupils to learn in a top-notch manner. To learn more about the program, go to the school’s website.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Tuition: $56,225
Faculty to Student Ratio: 9:1
Acceptance Rate: 11%
#4. Ohio State University
Another dental hygienist school that provide a solid dental hygiene curriculum is Ohio State University. They have a bachelor’s degree program in dental hygiene that takes four years to finish.
They also have an accelerated bachelor’s degree program for licensed dental hygienists. That earned an associate’s degree from a recognized institution.
Two years of liberal arts education are followed by two years of professional education for the major or dental hygienist in a standard bachelor’s degree.
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Tuition: $10,726
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19:1
Acceptance Rate: 54%
#5. Texas A&M- Dental hygienist schools
A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene is available at Texas A&M University’s Caruth School of Dental Hygiene. The institution is regarded as one of the best schools for dental hygienists in the world. Before enrolling in the dental hygiene program, aspiring students must complete all of the general necessary courses.
After being accepted into the program, students will complete dental hygiene courses and participate in clinical experiences to obtain the skills needed to practice as a dental hygienist.
Location: College Station, Texas
Tuition: $11,870
Faculty to Student Ratio: 20:1
Acceptance Rate: 58%
#6. University of Pittsburgh
Dental hygiene is offered as an associate and bachelor’s degree program at the University of Pittsburgh. The school’s dental hygiene programs equip students to work as licensed, professional dental hygienists.
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Tuition: $19,080
Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
Acceptance Rate: 57%
#7. University of Minnesota
Another world-class dental hygienist school that provides a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene with rich dental hygiene programs is the University of Minnesota. They are committed to developing a learning environment that encourages cooperation, lifelong learning, and leadership in the field of oral healthcare.
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Tuition: $14,760
Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
Acceptance Rate: 57%
#8. North Dakota State College of Science
North Dakota State College of Science provides an associate degree in dental hygiene that qualifies students to sit for the national dental hygiene exam and work as certified dental hygienists after passing.
The dental hygiene program includes a classroom curriculum as well as laboratory and clinical experiences to assist students to develop the necessary skillset to become qualified dental hygienists.
Location: Wahpeton, North Dakota
Tuition: $5,132
Graduation Rate: 52%
Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
Acceptance Rate: 100%
#9. University of Washington
The University of Washington offers a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene to students interested in becoming licensed dental hygienists. The University of Washington also has one of the world’s most prestigious dental hygiene schools.
Graduates who pass the exam can work in private practice or pursue a master’s degree, which is also available at the University of Washington.
#10.University of North Carolina
Students can acquire a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene through the University of North Carolina’s dental hygiene program. Students will learn how to maintain good oral health and avoid dental illness.
While participating in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health programs, they will also learn to adopt leadership responsibilities as members of a healthcare team.
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Tuition: $8,987
Graduation Rate: 91%
Faculty to Student Ratio: 19:1
Acceptance Rate: 23%
#11. Oregon Institute of Technology
The Oregon Institute of Technology provides a dental hygienist degree and has a long history of conducting the curriculum with skill and efficiency.
Students will have substantial hands-on clinical experiences as well as possibilities for overseas externships as a result of this.
Graduates complete the curriculum with enough hours to qualify for both license and an extended practice permit.
Location: Klamath Falls, Oregon
Tuition: $10,118
Graduation Rate: 43%
Faculty to Student Ratio: 15:1
Acceptance Rate: 97%
#12. University of South Dakota
The recognized dental hygienist degree at the University of South Dakota teaches students to promote oral health. Students can receive a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene and work as licensed hygienists after graduation.
Dental hygiene programs, laboratory experience, and outreach clinical hours are all included in the curriculum, which completely prepares students to serve as dental hygienists.
Location: Vermillion, South Dakota
Tuition: $9,061
Graduation Rate: 53%
Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
Acceptance Rate: 86%
#13. Taft College
Taft College’s dental hygiene programs is comprehensive as well as personalized in its approach to educating students. Students follow a demanding program that emphasizes technical competence while also emphasizing individual patient care.
Students will be prepared to take the state and national licensing examinations to become dental hygienists after completing the dental hygienist degree. They will have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pass.
Location: Taft, California
Tuition: $1,410
Graduation: 3%
Faculty to Student Ratio: 36:1
Acceptance Rate: 100%
#14. Farmingdale State College
Dental hygiene is offered as an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree at Farmingdale State College which also prides itself as one of the best dental hygiene schools in the world.
Students in both programs will fulfill the academic prerequisites to become certified dental hygienists; however, the bachelor’s degree provides for a larger scope of practice as a dental hygienist.
Location: New York State
Tuition: $8,306
Graduation Rate: 3%
Faculty to Student Ratio: 20:1
Acceptance Rate: 55%
#15. Ferris State University
Ferris State University offers a unique learning experience for dental hygiene students as one of the country’s best dental hygienist schools
The school has a huge, cutting-edge hygiene clinic where students gain the necessary skills. During practical experiences in the community, students hone their abilities and treat patients.
Those interested in earning a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene can do so by completing the program online.
Location: Big Rapids, Michigan
Tuition: $11,788
Graduation Rate: 49 %
Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Dental hygienist schools online
Dental assisting is a rewarding career that is also safe, flexible, and fun. To get the most out of the job, dental assistants should enroll in the best dental hygienist schools. Also, dental assistant online classes teach students the fundamentals and skills they’ll need to work as a dental assistant. Each of the online dental assistant classes is led by professionals who have mastered the craft.
Below are to online dental schools:
- Materials in Oral Health – Coursera
- HPV – Associated Oral and Throat Cancer: What You Need To Know – Coursera
- Become a Dental Assistant: Have a Mobile and Flexible Career – Udemy
- Dental Assistant Fundamentals: 1st Step To Be A Professional – Udemy
- Introduction to Dental Medicine – Coursera
- Dental Extraction: Basic Principles, Forceps, and Elevators – Udemy
Conclusion
If you read this article carefully, you should have learned a lot about how to become a dental hygienist.
You should also be aware that there are numerous prestigious dental hygiene programs and dental hygienist classes worldwide where you can enroll in a dental hygiene program.
Reference
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FAQs Dental Hygienist Schools
How Long Is The Dental Hygiene Program?
In the Dental Hygiene Program, two years of dental hygiene curriculum are integrated with two brief summer courses. You must first fulfill the general education requirements and prerequisites in order to be admitted to the Dental Hygiene program where you will attend dental hygienist classes.
Is Becoming A Dental Hygienist Worth It?
Working as a dental hygienist is both rewarding and challenging. Qualifying in this sector opens up a wide range of career opportunities in a number of settings, including part-time and full-time jobs. Dental hygiene is an excellent career choice. So, get your dental hygienist degree now in any recognize dental hygiene schools
What GPA Do You Need For Dental Hygiene?
Although admissions requirements for a dental hygienist degree differ by dental hygiene schools, it is recommended that you have a 2.5 GPA. If your GPA isn’t quite where you’d like it to be, there are other aspects of the application process where you may shine and make up for it.
How much does a dental hygienist earn?
Dental Hygienists earn a median salary of $76,220
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