This major is a program that prepares individuals to clean teeth and apply preventive materials, provide oral health education and treatment counseling to patients, identifying oral pathologies and injuries, and manage dental hygiene practices.
Includes instruction in dental anatomy, microbiology, and pathology; dental hygiene theory and techniques; cleaning equipment operation and maintenance; dental materials; radiology; patient education and counseling; office management; supervised clinical training; and professional standards.
What can you do with a major/degree in Dental Hygiene/Hygienist Major?
As a Dental Hygienist you likely administer oral hygiene care to patients. Assess patient oral hygiene problems or needs and maintain health records. Advise patients on oral health maintenance and disease prevention. May provide advanced care such as providing fluoride treatment or administering topical anesthesia.
Job opportunities for dental hygienists are very likely in the future as this career subsector is expected to see a six percent (6%) growth 2019-2029.
Dental hygienists typically need an associate degree in dental hygiene. Programs usually take 3 years to complete. All states require dental hygienists to be licensed; requirements vary by state.
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Dental Hygiene/Hygienist Major
Professional associations are groups of professionals dedicated to topics in specific fields. Professional associations provide a wealth of online resources, some of which are geared specifically towards students. These organizations typically also host conferences and events, providing great opportunities for learning and networking across your field of interest.
- American Dental Hygienists' Association
- National Dental Hygienists Association
- American Dental Association
Publications/Magazines in Dental Hygiene/Hygienist Major