Get Your Degree!

Get information on programs from our featured schools.

What is a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienist schools are where a healthcare professional focusing on the practice dealing with the proper care and maintenance of oral health study.  Oral health is a term that includes the examination of teeth, gums, mouth, and surrounding craniofacial structures.  Individuals in this field are referred to as a hygienist or dental hygienists.

These professionals are responsible for cleaning the oral cavity as well as identifying any ailments or disease that may be present. Additionally, dental hygienists provide education in the proper care and treatment of one's mouth in order to continue cleanliness at home.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$73,440

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

49.53%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

204,990

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Dental Hygienist Schools

The University of Southern California is a private research university that was founded by Robert M. Widney in 1880. In addition, the University has been and is continuously accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) since March 16, 1949 and was reaffirmed in the fall of 2010; an accreditation review in a WSCUC offsite review in the fall of 2020 and a site visit will take place in the spring of 2021. Over 126 distinct undergraduate degrees, 170 graduate degrees in which 50 are offered online or through graduate distance education programs and several PhD programs and certificates are offered by the institution. With the institution’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, a top ranked dgree in Dental Hygiene is offered and sought out by aspiring dental hygienists. With the requirement of 39 courses in the curriculum, the degree can be completed. Furthermore, the institution also offers 16 courses for their master’s degree. In addition, the students are educated and prepared to be dental hygiene leaders that are trained to provide educational and clinical services to patients concerning oral health care.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Michigan located in Ann Arbor, Michigan is a private research university that was established in 1817. It is known now as one of the oldest universities in Michigan and was moved to Ann Arbor in 1837. Another, the university was institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission every 10 years and many of the University of Michigan schools, colleges, departments and programs also engage in specialized or professional accreditations. Moreover, the institution offers 129 undergraduate programs, 83 master’s programs, 151 doctoral degrees and 52 certificate programs. With 3 types of dental hygiene programs Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree and a Master of Science degree in Dental Hygiene program which can be completed in the span of 2 years. Providing the students with the knowledge on the field based on extended knowledge and experiential learning opportunities is the main goal of the institution which can be a way for them to be qualified in pursuing careers in teaching, research and clinical practices for oral care.

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and was chartered in 1789. Also, the University began enrolling students in 1795 making it one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Moreover, the University of Carolina at Chapel Hill along with many of its programs participate regularly in rigorous internal and external review processes in maintaining accreditation, the institution is Regionally Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The institution offers 62 distinct undergraduate degrees, 82 graduate programs in which 13 are offered online or through graduate distance education programs. With a baccalaureate level dental hygiene program, the university’s Adams School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program which can be completed within 4 years and a master’s degree in Dental Hygiene Education in which the course may vary according to the educational background and the track chosen by the student aspiring for the degree. In fact, the students are trained not only to become a hygienist or a health care provider but to become an educator and a motivator as well all the while maintaining oral health care and preventing dental diseases.

Acceptance Rate

22.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

New York University is a private research university in New York City and was chartered in 1831. The University became an initial non-denominational all-male institution in 1832 in which its first classes took place near City Hall. The university’s main campus was then later moved to Greenwich Village surrounding Washington Square Park. New York University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Over 400 undergraduate programs, 14 graduate programs, more than 30 doctoral programs and a variety of non-degree programs are offered by the University. Offering two programs related in the field of Dental Hygiene, the New York University’s College of Dentistry introduces a degree in Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene. With the requirement of 32 credits the bachelor’s degree can be completed and the associate degree can be completed within 12 months. The associate degree requires a pre-testing and a 5-week practicum before enrollment and the program consists of lectures and clinical hands-on experiences in dental health services. In addition, the students are allowed to work with dental (Doctor of Dental Surgery) students, dental faculties and dental hygiene faculties in experiencing clinical requirements of the course.

Acceptance Rate

16.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The Ohio State University is a public land-grant research university in Columbus, Ohio. It was originally known as the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College and was founded in 1870 as the state's land-grant university and the 9th university in Ohio with the Morrill Act of 1862. Since the year 1913, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits Ohio State University. Furthermore, the university offers 156 distinct undergraduate degrees, 97 master’s programs, and 94 doctoral programs. A 4-year program leading to a degree in Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene is offered by The Ohio State University’s College of Dentistry. With 2 years of general education courses and program requisites, followed by 2 years in the professional program the degree can be completed and achieved. Additionally, the university also offers a Master’s degree program in Dental Hygiene, a 2-year online course that aims to prepare dental hygienists in a hygiene leadership and education career. Also, the master’s degree program’s schedule is flexible allowing students to enroll in full-time or part-time wherein as a result, gives students the best education in dental health care in their convenience.

Acceptance Rate

53.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

The University of Washington is a public research university in Seattle, Washington, United States. It was founded in 1861 and was established in downtown Seattle approximately a decade after the city's founding to aid its economic development. One of six regional accrediting organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) accredited the University of Washington. The institution offers 245 undergraduate degrees and over 300 graduate degree programs.  Incidentally, the university’s School of Dentistry no longer offers a dental hygiene degree-completion program. However, the institutions’ School of Dentistry offers a Master’s Degree in Dental Hygiene that requires approximately 70 credit hours. The program provides training to dental hygienists to become educators and teachers, training them in applied clinical sciences, allows participation in clinic care of patients with special needs and in providing a research project. Also, this program is a non-thesis program but will require a capstone research project instead. Additionally, the university also offers a Doctoral Degree in Dental Hygiene.

Acceptance Rate

51.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Hillyard Technical Center (HTC) is a public college located in St. Joseph, Missouri and was founded in 1943. Furthermore, Hillyard Technical Center is pre-accredited by the Council on Occupational Education and 2 of their programs are accredited. Hillyard Technical Center provides 17 major programs. Currently, the institution does not offer a Dental Hygiene program anymore due to the program ending in May 2020. On the contrary, before ending the program in May 2020, the process was to require first year students take their general education courses at North Central Missouri College (NCMC), such requirement is needed in order to get into the program. Once they are accepted into the Dental Hygiene program, the students will complete the required curriculum on Hillary Technical Center campus in a span of 22 months. Furthermore, once the student has successfully completed the requirements (curriculum courses at NCMC, 15 hours with NCMC, core program at HTC, and submitted the final HTC transcript), NCMC will confer the degree.

Acceptance Rate

53.85

Tuition

$12,630 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

4:1

The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities is a public land-grant research university in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. The institution was founded in 1851 near Saint Anthony Falls on the banks of the Mississippi River. In addition, the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities’ campus has been accredited continuously since 1913. Moreover, 150 majors of undergraduate degree programs and more than 130 researched-based graduate programs are offered by the university. Furthermore, a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree is offered by the university’s School of Dentistry. The program can be finished within the span of 3 years rather than the traditional 4-year program wherein it requires 8 pre-requisite courses and all must be a minimum of 3 credits. Additionally, the institution also offers a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Degree where the program prepares leaders in the profession for research, in the healthcare industry and academia.

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

The University of Pittsburgh is a state-related public research university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States and was founded on the 28th of February 1787. Moreover, the university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Furthermore, the university is offering 98 distinct undergraduate degrees, concentrated into 82 majors within 23 broad fields of study. Through the College of General Studies and the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene is offered. In the program, the students must earn a minimum of 131 credits to complete the degree. Additionally, only graduates of accredited dental hygiene programs are eligible to complete the bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene.

Acceptance Rate

56.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Rutgers University–New Brunswick is one of three regional campuses of Rutgers University, New Jersey’s public research university and is located in New Brunswick and Piscataway and was founded on November 10, 1766. In addition, Rutgers University–New Brunswick is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). MSCHE is a voluntary, nongovernmental, peer-based membership association dedicated to promoting standards of excellence and improvement in higher education. More than 120 undergraduate majors and over 200 graduate programs are offered by the institution. Moreover, the university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene in which the program consists of the SHP Core Curriculum, general education prerequisites, basic and dental sciences, interdisciplinary health science classes, collaborative procedures and clinical practice. Additionally, the program educates and trains students in order to exhibit competency as clinicians, responsibility for health promotion and disease prevention and to perform multiple and advanced level dental auxiliary functions.

Acceptance Rate

61.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Texas A&M University is a public land-grant research university in College Station, Texas and was founded in 1876. It became the flagship institution of the Texas A&M University System in 1948. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Texas A&M University’s baccalaureate, masters, doctorate, and professional levels are awarded by the commission. Furthermore, Texas A&M University offers more than 130 undergraduate degrees and 268 graduate and professional degrees. Moreover, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s Caruth School of Dental Hygiene is an integral part of the university. It offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene wherein its curricular program supports student competency and prepares them for dental hygiene practice. Additionally, the faculty will demonstrate participation in teaching, service and scholarly activity and the Dental Hygiene students will provide quality care to patients. Also, the baccalaureate degree offered through the Caruth School of Dental Hygiene by Texas A&M University College of Dentistry satisfies the educational requirement for eligibility for state licensure. Meanwhile, graduates are provided with diverse experiences to prepare for a variety of employment settings and to pursue graduate education.

Acceptance Rate

57.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Howard University is a private, federally chartered historically Black research university in Washington, D.C. It is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity". Founded on November 20, 1866 by 10 members of the First Congregational Society of Washington, D.C. The members gathered for a missionary meeting and decided to name the university for Major General Oliver O. Howard, a Civil War hero and Commissioner of the Freedmen's Bureau, a U.S. government agency established in 1865 to aid freed blacks. Furthermore, the university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Moreover, 87 undergraduate degrees, and more than 30 disciplines and 100 specializations in their graduate programs are offered by the institution. The College of Dentistry of Howard University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene wherein the program awards a Certificate in Dental Hygiene. Also, the program is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Additionally, Admission policies require prerequisites in science and general education courses.

Acceptance Rate

36.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Concorde Career College - Aurora is a 2–4-year college and is a for-profit college located in Aurora, Colorado in the Denver Area and was founded in 1966. The institution is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE). In addition, Concorde Career College’s Aurora campus offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate majors, and the highest degree offered by the institution is an associate degree. Moreover, the college offers a Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science program that allows graduates with an associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) - accredited program and a valid dental hygiene license to earn the Bachelor of Science degree. Additionally, the new program is to provide a supportive learning environment in which the student has the ability to acquire advanced theoretical knowledge and professional attributes necessary to pursue different career avenues within the Dental Hygiene field or the educational side of Dental Hygiene.

Acceptance Rate

61.58

Tuition

$15,955 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

41:1

Plaza College is a for-profit, private higher education institution located in Jackson Heights, New York. It is a proprietary institution that was founded in 1916. Furthermore, Plaza College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Offering 13 undergraduate majors in which there are 3 Bachelor’s degrees, 7 Associate’s degrees and 6 Certificate degrees, the institution paves a way for students in pursuing their educational goals. Moreover, the college offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene. The degree program allows for the pursuit of a career not only in clinical practice, but in alternative career settings such as public health, academia, and research.

Acceptance Rate

29.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

Creighton University is a private, Jesuit university in Omaha, Nebraska and it was founded as Creighton College by the Society of Jesus on September 2, 1878.  In fact, Creighton University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Nevertheless, the university offers more than 140 academic programs, degrees and majors for students to choose from. Moreover, a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene is offered by the university. This program is offered through the university’s College of Professional Studies in conjunction with the School of Dentistry. Nonetheless, this Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene is designed to prepare the graduate to assume broader positions of responsibility in a variety of health care, research, business, community, and educational settings, and to adapt to new roles necessitated by the changing health care environment. However, the program requires the completion of the 48-credit course, a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is required for graduation with a Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene from the School of Dentistry. This average shall be computed only on the basis of all courses attempted while enrolled in the College of Professional Studies in the program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene. In addition to that, students will have a maximum of four years from the time of enrollment at Creighton University to complete their bachelor’s degree requirements.

Acceptance Rate

73.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

University of the Pacific is a private Methodist-affiliated university with campuses in Sacramento, San Francisco and Stockton, California. It is the oldest chartered university in California, the first independent coeducational campus in California, and both the first conservatory of music and first medical school on the West Coast. In addition, the university was first chartered on July 10, 1851 in Santa Clara, California, under the name California Wesleyan College. Moreover, the University of the Pacific is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. With over 80 undergraduate areas of study spanning 10 schools and colleges, a broad list of accelerated programs are designed and offered by the University of the Pacific for very talented and dedicated high school students who know they want to pursue a graduate or professional degree. The university presents an opportunity for students to experience the Dental Hygiene degree program offered. The program is open for application to freshmen, majors in dental hygiene or transfer students from other universities and colleges. Additionally, following the completion of the prerequisite course work, a student can apply for a dental hygiene major as a freshman. Also, students are required to have a high school GPA of not less than 2.7. They also need to have undertaken chemistry, Biology and other preparatory classes for college.

Acceptance Rate

65.61

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Lewis University is a private Roman Catholic and Lasallian University in Romeoville, Illinois. It was founded in 1932 by the Archdiocese of Chicago and Bishop Bernard J. Scheil as the Holy Name Technical School. In addition, the school gets its name from philanthropist Frank J. Lewis who funded the construction of many of the school's buildings. Moreover, Lewis University is accredited by, and a member of, the Higher Learning Commission. More than 80 undergraduate majors and programs of study, 35 graduate programs, and accelerated programs for working adults through the Colleges of Aviation, Science and Technology, Business, Education and Social Sciences, Humanities, Fine Arts and Communications, and Nursing and Health Sciences are offered by the institution. In fact, Lewis University is the only university in the Chicagoland area to offer a bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene. The program consists of 128 total credit hours and 83 major credit hours. Additionally, upon successful completion of this program, students will be eligible to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene.

Acceptance Rate

63.9

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The University of Hawaii at M?noa is a public land-grant research university in M?noa, a neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States and it was founded in 1907 as a land-grant college of agriculture and mechanical arts. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and governed by the Hawaii State Legislature and a semi-autonomous board of regents. Furthermore, the university offers more than 200 degree programs through 18 colleges and schools, 78 graduate programs in which 7 are offered online or through graduate distance education programs. Moreover, the dental hygiene program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa is the only baccalaureate level program in the state. It offers the educational preparation required of dental hygienists to provide oral health care and education to the people of Hawaii, the continental U.S., and the Pacific-Asia region. In addition, the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene offered by the university, offers professional training, a foundation for personal and professional development, and preparation for graduate study. Also, the Department of Dental Hygiene also offers an Advanced Professional Certificate for Expanded Function Dental Hygiene in Pediatrics (EFDH).

Acceptance Rate

58.47

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The University of Detroit Mercy is a private, Catholic university in Detroit, Michigan. The University of Detroit Mercy's origin dates back to 1877 with the founding of "Detroit College," near Detroit's downtown, by the Society of Jesus, under the leadership of John Baptist Miège, S.J. Nonetheless, the college became the University of Detroit in 1911. The institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. More than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university are delivered in small classes that are taught by distinguished faculty. Moreover, the Detroit Mercy Dental Hygiene programs are uniquely housed within the university’s School of Dentistry providing unique and collaborative learning opportunities for students. Furthermore, not only courses are taught by both dental hygiene and dental faculty, but students from each program provide patient care together in clinics, they provide a Pre-Dental Hygiene Program through hands-on clinical learning, research, outreach and community service activities. It is a well-rounded four-year educational program that leads to a degree in Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. It is a Professional Dental Hygiene Program that will graduate students with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene after completing the pre-requisite courses. Students who have been accepted into the Professional Dental Hygiene Program will begin in the month of May of their junior year wherein students engage in a full time, two-year, six-semester curriculum. Also, the university offers a Degree Completion Program for currently licensed Dental Hygienists who have graduated from an accredited dental hygiene program but did not obtain a Bachelor’s degree as part of their studies. The program provides a stimulating environment where students gain a superb understanding of research methods and current research in the field, as well as advanced knowledge and clinical skills in periodontics.

Acceptance Rate

77.49

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Fox College is a for-profit college with its main campus in Bedford Park, Illinois and was founded in 1932. With the accreditation of the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Fox College's Medical Assisting Program is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and the Veterinary Technician program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities. Moreover, the institution offers 7 distinct undergraduate degrees. With the Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene Degree Program offered by Fox College Inc., students who will enter the profession of dental hygiene will take specific curricular objectives that fall into four categories: biomedical sciences, general education, dental science, and dental hygiene science. The program will normally be completed in 80 weeks with contact hours totaling 2,066. Additionally, the Dental Hygiene degree program will foster clinical problem solving and critical thinking skills to be used in the healthcare environment and provide students with a didactic and an experiential educational foundation that promotes life-long learning.

Acceptance Rate

61.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Regis College is a private Roman Catholic university run by the Sisters of St. Joseph in Weston, Massachusetts, and was founded as a women’s college in 1927. Regis College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), it is a voluntary, nongovernmental, peer-based membership association dedicated to promoting standards of excellence and improvement in higher education. Furthermore, the institution offers undergraduate and graduate academic programs within four schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Communication, the Richard and Sheila Young School of Nursing, and the School of Health Sciences. With Regis College's dental hygiene program, both associate's and bachelor's degrees are offered for students who are passionate about helping patients improve and maintain good oral health. Students can apply for acceptance into the Intended Dental Hygiene (IDH) curriculum as a first-year student, at the completion of the dental hygiene prerequisite courses. Next, the student applies for consideration for acceptance into the Dental Hygiene program. The Associate degree offered by the institution is a total of 88 credits and the Bachelor of Science degree is a total of 124 credits. Therefore, students are expected to review and track their own progress towards completion of degree requirements. A minimum of 2.0 (C) grade in all dental hygiene courses, otherwise a cumulative GPA of 2.0 is acceptable and a Bachelor's degree student must complete 120 credits.

Acceptance Rate

79.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS University) is a private university focused on medical and health-related science programs and located in the Longwood Medical and Academic Area of Boston, Massachusetts. Founded by fourteen Boston pharmacists as the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy in 1823, it is the oldest higher education institution in Boston. Moreover, MCPHS University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Furthermore, the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers 23 undergraduate degrees, and 15 graduate programs in which 7 are offered online or through graduate distance education programs. With an offered accelerated degree in Dental Hygiene, the institution provides the program in an accelerated time in a frame of 33 consecutive months. In addition, students will have the opportunity to work alongside professional experts through clinical experiences in prestigious on-campus clinics and community facilities. Also, the year-round program gives the benefit of an immersive education and prepares the students for the career faster. When the students graduate, they will hold a bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene. Also, the institution also offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene - Degree Completion. This part-time program is offered entirely online for working hygienists who wish to advance their education and their careers while continuing to work full-time. Upon graduation, the students will hold a bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, increasing the preferred degree in the field, and be in a position to earn a master’s degree in the future.

Acceptance Rate

85.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The University of New England (UNE) is a public university in Australia, its original and main campus is located in the city of Armidale in northern central New South Wales. The University of New England was preceded by the New England University College, which was founded in 1938 as part of the University of Sydney and the College became fully independent as the University of New England in 1954. Moreover, the University of New England is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Also, more than 30 undergraduate majors and graduate programs are offered by the university. Furthermore, the institution offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program that combines the study of dental hygiene theory with supervised clinical practice.

Acceptance Rate

84.39

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The State University of New York at Farmingdale is a college in East Farmingdale. In the U.S. state of New York, the State University of New York at Farmingdale was founded in 1912, the founding of the College was originally proposed by State Assemblyman John Lupton in 1909. Moreover, Farmingdale State College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Also, over 46 undergraduate degrees and 2 graduate programs (Master’s) are offered by the institution. Furthermore, the institution offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program that prepares students for licensure and entry into the profession of dental hygiene, as well as certification in the administration of local infiltration anesthesia/nitrous oxide analgesia. Also, as a student in the Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science Degree Program, the students are eligible to participate in the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association (SADHA) which promotes student leadership through community outreach, lunch and learn programs, and various campus activities.

Acceptance Rate

54.89

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Concorde Career College - San Diego is an above-average for-profit college located in San Diego, California and was founded in 1986. Concorde Career College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE). Moreover, the institution offers 8 undergraduate fields of study. With their accredited 17-month dental hygiene program the Concorde Career College - San Diego offers all of the general education and science classes the students take in order to complete the program. Also, the institution offers their accredited Dental Hygiene Associate Degree that teaches practical skills and knowledge in extraoral and intraoral exams, periodontal and dental exams, patient history reviews, and risk assessments.

Acceptance Rate

90.96

Tuition

$35,469 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

The dental hygiene profession is an integral part of any dental office or dentistry business. Dental hygienists are customer-facing and engage directly with patients on a daily basis. They identify issues and remediate problems before they become larger health care issues. Common types of services a dental hygienist performs consulting and dental solutions that can include:

  • Interacting Directly with Patients & Dentists
  • Removing Tartar
  • Performing Dental X-Rays
  • Teaching Proper Oral Hygiene
  • Utilizing a Variety of Dental Instruments
  • Working with Dental Technicians & Dental Assistants
  • Recommending a Gum Graft
  • Identifying Dental Abscess
  • Communicating with a Dental Laboratory
  • Analyzing Tooth Decay
  • Utilizing Dental Floss
  • Teeth Cleaning
  • Analyzing Candidates for Tooth Planing
  • Consulting with Patients
  • Removing Plaque
  • Assessing a Tooth Cavity & Tooth Caries
  • Teeth Whitening

Hygienists will utilize a variety of tools and equipment to perform their jobs day-over-day. As an example, a teeth cleaning procedure can include instruments such as scalers, dental lasers, and dental floss.

Likewise, a teeth cleaning procedure can range from a deep, intensive cleanings to more topical cleanings from patient to patient. The intensity and frequency of cleanings depend on the regiment required to properly maintain a patients teeth & overall oral wellness.

Stages of Patient Care in Quality Dental Hygiene

The team at Kerr Dental believe there are eight discrete stages of patient care for a dental hygienist. Best practices culled over the course of several years helps to reveal what students need to know. In a typical dental practice, the daily workflow for dental hygiene professionals includes the following eight elements:

  1. Room Preparation
  2. Health Screening
  3. X-Rays: Intra-Oral and Extra-Oral
  4. Perio Charting and Probing
  5. Polishing and Cleaning
  6. Treatment and Patient Planning
  7. Room Disinfection
  8. Instrument Reprocessing

Download Our Dental Hygiene Infographic

Best Dental Hygienist Course Programs

A professional hygienist must first attend an accredited dental college as a requirement to become a licensed dental practitioner. The majority of states require a dental hygienist major to pass a state mandated examination before working with the public. The best dental hygienist school programs can be found at vocational schools, community colleges, specialty dental schools, 4-year colleges, state universities, and through online learning college programs. Get started on your search by reading the school types below:

Community College A community college is often associated with being a 2-year school geared towards providing students with an associate degree; however, many accredited community colleges in the United States have recently begun to add bachelor of science degree tracks for in-demand professions. In addition, you may find an increase in onsite learning opportunities along with online degree programs.

In terms of dental hygiene education, students enrolled in a community college will likely discover a broad-based curriculum supporting the ever-evolving needs of dental professionals. Electives at a community college may include sociology, creative writing, public speaking, or economics. As such, dental hygiene students will be provided exposure to various general education courses to help think and process differently.

Vocational School & Technical College A trade school, technical college, and vocational school are higher education institutions that targets skill development making work-readiness a top priority. Most vocational schools and technical college programs result in dental hygiene students earning a certificate after completing the requisite coursework. Upon certificate completion, a dental hygiene student will often work in a dental clinic or a dental office.

Dental Hygiene School Another option is for students to consider a degree track in dental hygiene found within an accredited dental school. Attending a school of dentistry will generally provide students with more science-heavy courses than a community college. Dental schools will often provide health care curriculum along with research credit and operations coursework to help prepare students for career mobility after graduation.

Four-Year College or State University A 4-Year college or university may offer bachelor of science in dental hygiene degrees on campus or online off campus. Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees require students to have successfully earned credits for all lower level courses prior to degree completion.

A four-year private college, liberal arts college, or state university can offer high quality programs dental hygiene. Four-year universities can offer hands-on learning opportunities and in-depth curriculum to help students prepare for long-term careers in the dental field. While most 4-year programs require exposure to a variety of general education courses, the research and case studies in a dental hygiene education for a well-rounded graduate.

Dental Hygienists Course Requirements

Individuals interested in studying at a dental hygiene school will typically go on to earn a certificate or associates degree after earning a high school diploma. Undergraduate degrees like an associate degree will take students between one and two years to complete. Most dental offices and dental practices will require a high school diploma plus an associate degree or higher as a minimum job requirement.

Bachelor's degrees and master's degrees are less commonly required by dental offices. Rather, a graduate degree or bachelor's degree online can be required for research positions, teaching positions, or for employment in certain programs or public schools. Curriculum in the dental hygiene learning domain often include courses such as:

Which Dental Hygiene School is Right for Me?

While determining which college dental hygiene school is right for you is a very personal choice. However, there are a few essential keys to getting matched to the best dental school for you after factoring in qualifications for admission, tuition, financial aid, and net price to attend.

The critical factors for any student looking to enroll in a college program for dental hygiene include program quality, accreditation, curriculum, program breadth, and timing.

Accreditation If your goal is to select a long-term career in dental hygiene, it is highly recommended to align yourself with an accredited higher education institution. Accredited colleges are best prepared to properly equip students for their state licensing exam and subsequent work in the dental field.

Look for schools to have a CODA affiliation to help ensure the best academic experience for your time and investment. CODA stands for the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Colleges earning a CODA affiliation provide students with the highest probability of gainful employment in the dental field after graduation.

Curriculum The curricular design will vary from university to university with CODA accredited schools adhering to a base set of courses. In addition to the accreditation, seek out programs that have a rich clinical experience for students. Schools that have on-site dental offices or community partnerships with private dental practices are a positive sign you will have solid clinical exposure during your time in school.

Program Emphasis As you may expect, not all dental hygiene schools are created equal. Aside from the school type, you should apply to programs that offers the career path you are most interested in pursuing. More specifically, if you intend to perform research in the dental field after graduation make sure to align yourself with an accredited program that emphasizes dental research.

Timing If your ultimate goal is to move from school directly into the workforce on an abbreviated schedule, you may wish to seek out colleges that offer accelerated dental hygiene programs. An accelerated program will provide students with a short, intense program which is contrasted with a longer, broad-based curriculum found in a four-year college, university, or school of dentistry.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist

College-bound students interested in learning how long it takes to become a dental hygienist will find detailed steps below. It is worth noting that online degree completion requirements for CODA accredited higher education institutions will generally have similar requirements for incoming students. To earn a dental hygienist degree, you will need to get started to thoroughly understand the following state dental hygiene requirements along with dental school factors and components.

  • Experience From academic experience to work experience, colleges will likely require more experience with higher-level degree paths. More specifically, the work experience and classroom requirements for a bachelors degree program will be greater than the criteria for a certificate program in dental hygiene.
  • School Most students will have already completed a set of general education courses prior to applying to a dental hygiene program at an accredited institution. For example, a student applying to a masters degree program in dental hygiene will have already completed the requisite coursework for a bachelors degree program.
  • DAT The Dental Admissions Test (DAT) is required by most dental programs. The DAT is an examination administered by CODA. The CODA organization curated the DAT to help higher education providers determine an applicants probability for success.
  • Letters of Recommendation Receiving letters of recommendation from current and previous teachers and managers is a must for most admissions officers. A letter of recommendation speaks to your character, work ethic, and competencies. A recommendation is taken into account in conjunction with your interview and application to help create a holistic profile of each applicant.
  • Application The details provided on your dental hygiene college application will include personal information, socioeconomic information, and a personal statement. Be prepared to invest time to create a quality application along with a financial investment to send your application to the schools admissions office.
  • Transcripts Your transcripts are the final piece of the puzzle in this guide. Transcripts are the non-opinionated, data-driven piece of the overall application. How you performed in previous classes may be an indication of your future success so establish good work habits early to maximize your options later in life.
  • Licensure - Licensing requirements will vary from state to state. However, research assembled by the ADHA reveal four common expectations. Common steps include:
    • Completing a dental hygiene degree program from a CODA institution
    • Passing a written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination
    • Successfully passing state and/or regional dental board examinations
    • Completing all requisite continuing education to maintain licensure

Top Dental Hygiene Education Programs & Degrees

The three primary buckets of dental hygiene degree levels include an online degree, associate degree, bachelors degree, and masters degree. Students may elect to search for a fast track degree and complete an accelerated dental hygiene certificate program instead of the degrees listed below.

Keep in mind that the timing, cost, program breadth, focus, and curriculum will vary from program to program so perform your research early. If you are looking to advance your career in the dental field, the degree programs below may be worth further consideration.

Dental Hygienist Associate's Degree

An Associate's of Science (AS) in dental hygiene is a two-year college degree program geared to provide students with the essentials. The associate's degree is often designed to be a focused program with few general education courses.

A cross-section of classes may include: dental materials, dental anatomy, dental radiology, chair-side assisting, and human anatomy & physiology. For CODA accredited schools, students should expect to apply to entry-level dental hygiene jobs upon graduation.

Dental Hygienist Bachelor’s Degree

The bachelors degree track is an advanced degree program lasting 4 years. A bachelors degree in dental hygiene will be conferred as a Bachelor's of Science (BS). The BS degree will include an array of general education courses along with core dental classes.

The core classes are career-focused and geared towards specific areas within the dental field which may include dental practice management, dental hygiene research, dental law & business ethics, periodontics, pharmacology, and advanced clinical research. Bachelors degrees are often a requirement for students looking to work in a managerial or supervisory capacity after graduation.

Master’s Degree in Dental Hygiene (MSDH)

While not a mainstream degree track, a masters degree in dental hygiene is a two-year program after successful completion of a bachelors degree. These high-level courses in healthcare and dentistry are often couched in deep research, industry best practices, public health-based for dental practitioners and future teachers. Courses you may see in the MSDH program are leadership, teaching dental hygiene, grant writing, community health advocacy, epidemiology, and health research topics.

Online Dental Hygiene Program

The best online dental hygiene programs have been growing at a rapid rate in the last decade. From certificate programs through doctoral online degree programs, an online delivery method continues to gain popularity from students and academics. An accredited online degree program offered via an accredited online school may be right for you if your schedule, learning style, and work ethic support the distance learning model.

Dental Hygienist Job Requirements

Dental hygienists are typically employed in dental offices and work alongside dentists and dental assistants. They provide care and treatment for patients during routine cleanings. Hygienists must wear protective gear when working on patients or clients, and when working may have to spend extensive amounts of time on their feet.

Many dental hygienists work part time, coming in for specific appointments instead of a full day-long shift. Meanwhile, some hygienists may work at multiple dental offices in order to maximize earnings. Employment for specialized programs or for research will be more competitive and difficult than those typically available at a dental office.

Dental Hygienist Job Outlook

Job growth is expected to increase rapidly over the next decade. According to recent studies performed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and ONet, there will be approximately 20,000 new job openings for dental hygienists in the coming decade. With an employment change of over 40,000 professionals expected, the dental hygiene field is expected to grow at a rate of 15-20% a year during this current reporting period.

Contributing factors to this rapid growth include access to healthcare, oral health awareness, and cultural norms of oral health. These factors are intensified with a growing body of research linking oral health to overall health.

Data and technology will help continue to bring oral health into the spotlight and increase awareness. For example, data collected by the Mayo Clinic reveals research that indicates that oral health can contribute to the following diseases: diabetes, endocarditis, HIV, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoporosis. The net result is a solid growth forecast for dental hygiene professionals for the foreseeable future.

Dental Hygienist Salary

Dental hygienists median pay is $74,070 annually. The top ten percent earned an average $101,330 while the bottom 25% average $61,230 per year. These figures can be elevated based upon experience, city demographics, education levels, geographic location, organization type, and hours worked. Over 95% of hygienists work directly for a dentist with a small fraction working for outpatient care facilities, medical centers, hospitals, and physician offices.

States employing the most hygienists include: California, Texas, New York, and Florida. Meanwhile, the top paying states are Alaska, California, and Washington averaging $98,000 per year between these three states. Individuals interested in dental hygiene services may also consider careers in dentistry, dental assisting, or dental laboratory technology.

For further research, consider visiting the following resource articles to learn more about the dental hygiene career path and associated college programs. From the latest employment statistics to career FAQs to career options, we have the resources to help you make the most of your career.

Resources in Dental Hygiene

If you are looking for additional information on a future in the dentistry field, read our comprehensive dental career guide.  It includes a variety of relevant topics such as job duties, common treatments, educational requirements, on-the-job training, typical hours, center duties, and dental assisting specialties.  Additionally, you can find specific job information for dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dental lab technicians in our guide.

Top Ranked Dental Hygiene Associations

National associations may be worth investigating for new students and current hygienists.  To help expedite your search, we have included a list of the top three national associations in the dental field that support learning and networking for hygienists:

  1. American Dental Association (ADA)
  2. American Dental Hygienist's Association (ADHA)
  3. National Dental Hygienist's Association (NDHA)

Featured Rankings

Find Your College Match

Sort By
PHP Code Snippets Powered By : XYZScripts.com