Dental Hygiene

What can I do in dental hygiene?

The dental hygienist is a licensed primary health care professional, oral health educator and clinician who, as co-therapist with the dentist, provides preventive, educational and therapeutic services supporting total health for the control of oral diseases and the promotion of oral health. Dental hygiene positions are available in general and specialty dental practices, community health centers, and hospitals, as well as federal programs, the armed services and dental product promotion. 

What characteristics and skills do I need to work in this field?

To be successful as a dental hygienist, you need to have good eye-hand coordination, interpersonal communication skills, an aptitude for science, strong written and verbal communication skills, critical judgment and decision-making skills, and good personal and oral hygiene.

Where can I work?

Most dental hygienists work in dentist offices. Requirements vary by state, but an associate degree is typically required. All dental hygienists must be licensed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for dental hygienists are expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2012 to 2032.

What does Trident Technical College offer?

Trident Technical College’s Dental Hygiene program includes both general education and professional dental courses. Students receive hands-on learning in the dental clinic on Thornley Campus. This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Dental Hygiene graduates are eligible to sit for the Dental Hygiene National Board Exam and individual state board examinations for licensure.