Dental Hygiene: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Dental Hygiene is a specialized health sciences program designed to equip students with the clinical expertise and professional competencies needed to promote optimal oral health and prevent disease. Graduates are prepared to deliver comprehensive preventive care, support patient education, and contribute effectively to dental healthcare teams in diverse clinical settings.

• Dental Anatomy: In-depth study of tooth structure, occlusion, and the anatomical features of the oral cavity to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Microbiology and Pathology: Examination of oral microorganisms, infection control principles, and the biological basis of oral diseases and tissue abnormalities.
• Dental Hygiene Theory and Techniques: Mastery of evidence-based clinical procedures, including scaling, root planing, and preventive therapies tailored to individual patient needs.
• Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Training in the proper use, sterilization, and upkeep of dental hygiene instruments and advanced clinical devices.
• Dental Materials: Understanding the properties, applications, and handling of restorative and preventive materials used in clinical practice.
• Radiology: Instruction in dental imaging techniques, radiation safety protocols, and interpretation of diagnostic X-rays to assess oral health status.
• Patient Education and Counseling: Development of communication strategies to guide patients in adopting effective oral hygiene habits and managing chronic conditions.
• Office Management: Exposure to administrative systems, electronic health records, scheduling, and compliance with healthcare regulations in dental practices.
• Supervised Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in real-world dental environments under the guidance of licensed professionals to build clinical confidence and proficiency.
• Professional Standards: Emphasis on ethics, legal responsibilities, cultural competence, and lifelong learning in accordance with national dental hygiene practice guidelines.