There are many different trade schools for dental hygienists. Each one is different and has its requirements. However, there are some general requirements that all trade schools for dental hygienists have.
To attend a trade school for dental hygienists, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also have completed an accredited dental hygiene program. There are many trade schools for dental hygienists, but not all are created equal. This article lists the ten best trade schools for dental hygienists in 2024.
Table of contents
Who Is A Dental Hygienist?
A dental hygienist is an oral health specialist treating and preventing oral diseases. They work largely independently, under the general supervision of a qualified dentist.
Dental hygienists play a significant role in teams led by dentists. Their work relieves the dentist of a considerable burden, allowing them to carry out more complex procedures.
As a result, dental hygienists frequently carry out various preventive dental operations in a clinic, including teeth cleaning, screening patients for oral illnesses, and other types of preventative dental care. Additionally, they instruct patients on how to maintain and enhance their oral health.
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What Are The Requirements To Attend A Trade School For Dental Hygienists?
To attend a trade school for dental hygienists, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to take an entrance exam, which may include a written and a practical examination.
Here are the prerequisites you will need to meet to secure admission as a dental hygienist
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- High school math, science, and English courses
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.0
Additionally, some trade schools may request that you:
- Pass an entrance exam
- Obtain required college credits
- Complete a personal interview
- Take an agility test
- Submit an essay
- Complete a criminal record check
10 Best Trade Schools For Dental Hygienists
Many trade schools offer programs for dental hygienists. Here are 10 of the best trade schools for dental hygienists in 2024:
- Fortis Institute
- Pima Medical Institute
- The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
- University of Southern California
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Concorde Career College
- New York University
- Texas A&M University
- Clover Park Technical College
- Fox Valley Technical College
1. Fortis Institute
The Fortis dental hygienist training program offers a thorough curriculum with a blend of traditional classroom instruction, laboratory sessions, and small group hands-on skill development to equip students to enter this exciting and gratifying career. You’ll get many chances to gain practical knowledge while working in a clinical setting.
Fortis offers dental hygienist training programs in our schools in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Utah, Alabama, and Georgia.
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2. Pima Medical Institute
The Pima Medical Institute, dental hygienist program is designed to give you the personal and professional skills required to work as a dental hygienist on a dental team and within the larger dental community.
The program’s curriculum combines classroom instruction with laboratory work and on-site clinical experience to provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide ethical, thorough dental hygiene care that complies with accepted standards.
3. The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, offers students various career possibilities. Their dental hygienist program provides students with advanced knowledge and experience-based learning.
They offer a 2-year full-time Bachelor of Science degree program in Dental hygiene. Their program focuses on social, behavioral, and biological sciences, preparing students for the practice of modern dental hygiene and leadership roles in future oral healthcare.
They also offer dental hygiene completion for those with an associate degree and a two-year master’s degree program.
4. University of Southern California
The USC Department of Dental Hygiene educates and prepares dental hygiene leaders for careers in a diverse and changing healthcare environment. They provide a liberal education and outstanding clinical experiences. The baccalaureate dental hygiene program combines dental and dental hygiene sciences, supporting sciences, and general education.
The program is dedicated to establishing a humanistic, educational atmosphere that will promote the growth of responsible, moral oral health professionals who are aware of the patient’s requirements and skilled in delivering dental hygiene treatment.
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5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The Adams School of Dentistry in UNC at Chapel Hill offers a baccalaureate-level dental hygiene program.
The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) is given to students who have completed the dental hygiene curriculum and the general education requirements for a four-year college degree. Transfer students can finish these courses before they enroll in the dental hygiene program, between the first and second year’s summer session, during the final spring semester, or in the first summer session following graduation.
The dental hygiene program aims to inspire students to become competent learners to provide excellent patient care.
6. Concorde Career College
Concorde Career College offers an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene program that provides the scientific grounding, professional know-how, and clinical abilities you need to assist others in maintaining their oral (and general) health.
The Commission approves the Dental Hygiene program on Dental Accreditation. CODA is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Dental Hygiene Schools In California
7. New York University
Next on our list of best trade schools for dental hygienists is New York University.
Students interested in preventative oral healthcare and promoting good health can take advantage of exceptional clinical and academic opportunities through the dental hygiene programs at NYU College of Dentistry. The dental hygienist, a vital element of the healthcare team, collaborates with the dentist to address patients’ oral health needs and enhance their quality of life.
NYU College of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dental Hygiene and an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Hygiene degree, all provided by the Department of Dental Hygiene & Dental Assisting.
8. Texas A&M University
The Caruth School of Dental Hygiene educates preventive oral health professionals capable of providing educational, clinical, and therapeutic services that support total health by promoting optimal oral health.
Their dental hygiene program offers learners an excellent opportunity to serve the community in private dental practices, dental clinics, public health agencies, schools, hospitals, government agencies, industry, education, and research.
The Texas A&M School of Dentistry cultivates a culture of diversity and inclusion while providing patients with the best possible education, research, and patient care.
9. Clover Park Technical College
The Dental Assistant program at CPTC encourages all three qualities employers desire in employees: practical experience, dependability, and a positive outlook to fit the social dynamics of the workplace.
The Dental Assistant Degree typically takes only five quarters to complete – you can get an excellent education and prepare for a great career in just over a year!
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10. Fox Valley Technical College
In this program, you’ll learn how to provide local anesthesia, nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation, and the skills required to expose x-rays to diagnose dental disease.
Additionally, you’ll learn how to keep patient records and receive instruction in educating patients about nutrition, oral hygiene, and dental care. After finishing, you’ll be qualified to sit for the Central Regional Dental Testing Service Practical exam and the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination to become a registered dental hygienist.
How Can I Become A Registered Dental Hygienist?
To become a registered dental hygienist, you must complete an accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. After that, you will need to obtain a state license. Some states also require passing an additional clinical exam.
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How Long Does It Take To Complete A Dental Hygienist Program In A Trade School
A dental hygienist program at a trade school typically takes two to four years to complete. The specific length of time depends on the school and the education level you seek. Many trade schools offer associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs in dental hygiene.
Depending on the institution and whether you are enrolled full- or part-time, master’s degree programs often last a year or two to finish. Many master’s students have professional experience and keep working while pursuing their degrees. Graduate degree students may find the flexibility of online and part-time alternatives, particularly useful.
After completing one of these degree programs in dental hygiene, you may be qualified to sit for the national, state, and local exams. You will be regarded as a registered dental hygienist once you satisfy these conditions, apply for licensure, and get approval (RDH).
How Much Does It Cost To Attend A Dental Hygienist Trade School?
The cost of dental hygienist school will depend on the program you select, how long it will take you to complete it, and where you attend. You have a lot of alternatives for financing your dental hygienist education, including financial aid and payment plans.
If you are an in-state resident attending school, the average cost of tuition for an associate’s degree in dental hygiene is $22,692. The cost of tuition is often higher if you are considered an out-of-state resident.
A baccalaureate degree in dental hygiene typically costs $36,382 in tuition for in-state residents. If you consider advancing your education and getting a master’s degree, you can expect to pay a $30,421 tuition fee.
FAQs On Best Trade Dental Hygienist Schools
Most dental hygiene programs last for approximately two years to four years.
To become a dental hygienist, you must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination after completing an accredited curriculum (NBDHE). To become a certified dental hygienist, you must pass any additional clinical or written tests that your state or area mandates (or licensed dental hygienist in Indiana). The circumstances and qualifications for acquiring a dental hygienist license vary by state.
Dental hygienists typically work at dental offices. However, dental hygienists can also be found in various settings, including long-term care homes, schools, correctional facilities, community health groups, and public health clinics.
Yes. There are online dental hygiene associate degree programs.
According to BLS.gov, the dental hygienist job is expected to grow 6 percent through 2029
Conclusion
These ten trade schools for dental hygienists are all accredited and offer incredible programs to help you become a successful dental hygienist.
References
- niche.com – 2024 Best Colleges with Dental Hygiene Degrees in America
- bestaccreditedcolleges.org – How to Become a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)
- indeed.com – How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Hygienist?
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