A career in dental hygiene can be a rewarding path for people with a passion for oral health and patient care. Dental hygienists play a crucial role in preventing oral diseases and maintaining dental wellness, and pursuing a dental hygiene major equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this rapidly growing field.
If you’re interested in pursuing a dental hygiene major, but you don’t know where to start, this article has all the information you need. We will give you a comprehensive overview of what a dental hygiene major entails, the top U.S. schools for dental hygiene, and some important factors to consider for this career path.
What is a Dental Hygiene Major?
A dental hygiene major is an academic program within the medical field designed to prepare students for careers as dental hygienists. Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to provide oral healthcare services, including teeth cleaning, dental exams, and patient education. These professionals play a pivotal role in promoting dental health and preventing oral diseases.
Dental hygiene majors typically cover a range of subjects, including dental anatomy, oral health sciences, radiography, periodontology, and pharmacology. Students also gain practical experience through hands-on clinical training, where they learn to perform dental procedures under the supervision of licensed professionals.
The Best Schools for Dental Hygienists
In order to become a dental hygienist, you will need a degree from an accredited program, so we’ve prepared a list of the top dental hygiene programs in the U.S.:
1. Harvard University — Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Important: HSDM does not offer an undergraduate or entry-level dental hygiene program. It offers the DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) and advanced graduate degrees only. However, HSDM is globally renowned for groundbreaking research in oral health, biomaterials, and dental medicine—making it a meaningful destination for dental hygienists pursuing research, teaching, or a second career as a dentist.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Program Type: DMD + advanced graduate programs (no DH program)
- Harvard College Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$59,320 (plus ~$22,400 room & board)
- Harvard College Acceptance Rate: ~3.6% (one of the lowest in the U.S.)
- Notable: Ranked among the top dental research institutions in the world; ideal for hygienists considering the DMD pathway later.
2. University of California, Los Angeles — School of Dentistry
Important: The UCLA School of Dentistry does not offer an undergraduate dental hygiene program. It offers DDS and advanced specialty training. UCLA’s comprehensive dental education emphasizes evidence-based practice and cutting-edge technology, which benefits dental hygienists who later pursue advanced degrees or research collaborations.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Program Type: DDS + advanced graduate programs (no DH program)
- UCLA Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$14,900 in-state; ~$48,500 out-of-state
- UCLA Acceptance Rate: ~9%
- Notable: One of the top-ranked dental schools on the West Coast; robust research in oral biology and craniofacial sciences.
3. University of Michigan — School of Dentistry
U-M’s School of Dentistry is one of the few Ivy-caliber universities that offers a full undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH), plus a Master’s in Dental Hygiene. In 2023, 35 students graduated from U-M’s dental hygiene programs. The school is renowned for contributions to dental research and innovation.
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Program Type: BSDH (entry-level) + MS in Dental Hygiene
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$17,700 in-state; ~$60,900 out-of-state
- UM Acceptance Rate: ~18%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; consistently ranked among the top BSDH programs; strong research output and a 1,200-patient teaching clinic.
4. University of Pennsylvania — School of Dental Medicine
Important: Penn Dental Medicine does not offer an undergraduate dental hygiene program—only the DMD and advanced programs. Penn is world-renowned for cutting-edge dental research and is a top target for hygienists who want to pursue a DMD.
- Location: Philadelphia, PA
- Program Type: DMD + advanced graduate programs (no DH program)
- Penn Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$66,100
- Penn Acceptance Rate: ~5.8%
- Notable: One of the oldest dental schools in the U.S. (founded 1878); strong research funding from the NIH.
5. Columbia University — College of Dental Medicine
Important: Columbia’s College of Dental Medicine does not offer an undergraduate dental hygiene program. It offers the DDS and advanced specialty programs. Columbia is known for pioneering research in oral health and dental materials.
- Location: New York, NY
- Program Type: DDS + advanced graduate programs (no DH program)
- Columbia Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$68,400
- Columbia Acceptance Rate: ~3.9%
- Notable: Integrated with Columbia University Irving Medical Center; top-tier research environment.
6. University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio — School of Dentistry
UT San Antonio’s School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) alongside its DDS and advanced programs. The school emphasizes clinical training and patient-centered care, with students gaining hands-on experience in diverse South Texas clinical settings.
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Program Type: BSDH + Certificate in Dental Hygiene + DDS
- BSDH Tuition (2025–26): ~$11,500 in-state; ~$24,000 out-of-state (approximate; verify with program)
- Admissions Selectivity: Highly competitive; small annual cohort
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; access to one of the largest dental patient populations in Texas; strong focus on underserved community care.
7. New York University — College of Dentistry
NYU’s College of Dentistry is the nation’s largest dental school and offers both an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dental Hygiene, plus a BS degree-completion track for licensed hygienists. In 2023, 69 students graduated from NYU’s dental hygiene programs. Facilities are state-of-the-art and include the latest dental technologies.
- Location: New York, NY
- Program Type: AAS, BS, and BS degree-completion in Dental Hygiene
- NYU Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$62,800
- NYU Acceptance Rate: ~8%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; two required internships; mostly online BS-completion option with on-campus clinical/science labs.
8. University of Illinois at Chicago — College of Dentistry
The UIC College of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and is known for advancing oral health and public health initiatives across Chicago’s diverse communities. UIC balances strong clinical care with community advocacy.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Program Type: BS in Dental Hygiene + DDS
- UIC Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$16,900 in-state; ~$32,700 out-of-state
- UIC Acceptance Rate: ~79%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; 2+2 entry model (two years of prerequisites, two years of DH program); extensive community-care rotations.
9. University of Southern California — Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
Important: USC’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry does not offer an undergraduate dental hygiene program. It offers DDS and advanced programs. USC is well-regarded for interprofessional education and collaboration across medicine, pharmacy, and occupational therapy.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Program Type: DDS + advanced graduate programs (no DH program)
- USC Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$71,000
- USC Acceptance Rate: ~9.9%
- Notable: Strong network and alumni base in Southern California; ideal for hygienists aiming for the DDS path.
10. Ohio State University — College of Dentistry
Ohio State’s College of Dentistry is the only dental school in Ohio to offer a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, plus a Master’s in Dental Hygiene and a Degree Completion program for working hygienists. Many courses are offered online for the BS-completion track.
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion + MS in Dental Hygiene + DDS
- Ohio State Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$13,000 in-state; ~$40,900 out-of-state
- Ohio State Acceptance Rate: ~52%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; 63 credits for major; specializations in Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary or Dental Hygiene Education.
11. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — Adams School of Dentistry
UNC’s Adams School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (two-year upper-division program) and is recognized for its research contributions and comprehensive clinical training. In 2023, 22 students graduated from UNC’s dental hygiene programs.
- Location: Chapel Hill, NC
- Program Type: BSDH + Certificate in Dental Hygiene
- UNC Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$9,000 in-state; ~$40,100 out-of-state
- UNC Acceptance Rate: ~17%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; U.S. News ranks UNC No. 30 among National Universities; strong undergraduate research options.
12. Boston University — Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
Important: BU’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine does not offer an undergraduate dental hygiene program. It offers the DMD and advanced specialty programs. BU is known for its forward-thinking, technology-driven approach to oral health education.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Program Type: DMD + advanced graduate programs (no DH program)
- BU Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$68,000
- BU Acceptance Rate: ~11%
- Notable: Interdisciplinary training; state-of-the-art simulation labs.
13. University of Minnesota — School of Dentistry
The University of Minnesota’s School of Dentistry offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene. In 2023, 28 students graduated from its DH programs. The school serves as a major dental instruction center for the Upper Midwest, providing treatment, education, and consulting services to five states.
- Location: Minneapolis, MN
- Program Type: BSDH + MS in Dental Hygiene
- UMN Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$18,000 in-state; ~$37,000 out-of-state
- UMN Acceptance Rate: ~70%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; innovative research and strong community outreach; 2+2 admission model.
14. University of Pittsburgh — School of Dental Medicine
Pitt’s School of Dental Medicine offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with rolling admissions. The program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical practice. Classes include nutrition, histology, radiographic interpretation, dental ethics, and special care in dentistry.
- Location: Pittsburgh, PA
- Program Type: BSDH + MS in Dental Hygiene Education + DMD
- Pitt Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$22,200 in-state; ~$40,500 out-of-state
- Pitt Acceptance Rate: ~50%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; 61–62 credits; rolling admissions; patient-centered clinical training.
15. Texas A&M University — School of Dentistry
Texas A&M’s School of Dentistry (formerly Baylor College of Dentistry) offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with a strong focus on community health and interdisciplinary collaboration. In 2023, 29 students graduated from its BSDH program.
- Location: Dallas, TX (clinical); College Station, TX (main campus)
- Program Type: BSDH + DDS
- Texas A&M Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$13,200 in-state; ~$40,500 out-of-state
- Texas A&M Acceptance Rate: ~63%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; graduates consistently achieve high licensure pass rates; significant community outreach clinics.
16. Marquette University — School of Dentistry
Marquette’s School of Dentistry is the only dental school in Wisconsin. Note: Marquette’s School of Dentistry itself does not offer an undergraduate dental hygiene program; however, Marquette partners with the Milwaukee Area Technical College for dental hygiene education and its dental school is known for its Jesuit-inspired commitment to underserved populations.
- Location: Milwaukee, WI
- Program Type: DDS + Marquette DH through partnerships (verify pathway with program)
- Marquette Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$52,800
- Marquette Acceptance Rate: ~88%
- Notable: Deep commitment to social justice and expanding access for underserved communities.
17. Virginia Commonwealth University — School of Dentistry
VCU’s School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. In 2023, 13 students graduated from the program. The school is recognized for its focus on research, clinical education, and community service.
- Location: Richmond, VA
- Program Type: BSDH + MS in Dental Hygiene + DDS
- VCU Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$15,000 in-state; ~$39,100 out-of-state
- VCU Acceptance Rate: ~87%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; ample clinical experience within an innovative learning environment; tech-forward curriculum.
18. University of Washington — School of Dentistry
The UW School of Dentistry is the only dental school in the Pacific Northwest and offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene through its Department of Oral Health Sciences. The program emphasizes technology integration, research, and clinical excellence.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Program Type: BSDH + MS in Oral Health Sciences + DDS
- UW Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$13,200 in-state; ~$44,200 out-of-state
- UW Acceptance Rate: ~48%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; strong research integration; serves a five-state WWAMI region.
19. Indiana University — School of Dentistry
Indiana University’s School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with state-of-the-art clinical facilities. The program emphasizes preventive care and patient education.
- Location: Indianapolis, IN
- Program Type: BSDH + MS in Dental Hygiene + DDS
- IU Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$12,000 in-state; ~$40,100 out-of-state (IUPUI/Indianapolis campus)
- IU Acceptance Rate: ~80%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; Indianapolis clinical campus; MS in DH available for advanced practice.
20. University of Missouri-Kansas City — School of Dentistry
UMKC’s School of Dentistry is Missouri’s only dental school and offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, a degree-completion track, and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Education. The program’s history dates back to 1881.
- Location: Kansas City, MO
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion + MS in DH Education + DDS
- UMKC Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$12,300 in-state; ~$30,200 out-of-state
- UMKC Acceptance Rate: ~82%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; strong emphasis on patient care, public health, and clinical expertise.
21. Regis College
Regis College is one of the preeminent dental hygiene programs in New England, offering a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with strong board completion and job placement rates. Students train at the on-campus Regis College Dental Center in Waltham, MA, and can apply for RDH licensure after their third year of study.
- Location: Weston, MA
- Program Type: BSDH (traditional and accelerated); DH bridge program
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$48,000
- Acceptance Rate: ~85%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; historically high NBDHE pass rates; state-of-the-art on-campus dental center.
22. University of the Pacific
The University of the Pacific offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene on its Stockton campus, with clinical training at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. The program is known for its interdisciplinary education and accelerated options.
- Location: Stockton, CA (with SF clinical rotations)
- Program Type: BSDH (accelerated pathway available)
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$56,900
- Acceptance Rate: ~64%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; clinical training at a top-tier dental school; student-wellness support, including meditation and listening-skills workshops.
23. Loma Linda University
Loma Linda’s Dental Hygiene program offers Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in Dental Hygiene—the only U.S. program that includes a doctoral option in dental hygiene specifically. The school is rooted in whole-person care and faith-based service.
- Location: Loma Linda, CA
- Program Type: AS, BS, MS, and PhD in Dental Hygiene
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$37,500
- Acceptance Rate: ~42%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; only U.S. program with a PhD in Dental Hygiene; robust mission-service global outreach.
24. Oregon Institute of Technology
Oregon Tech’s Dental Hygiene program is one of the most respected in the Pacific Northwest, offering a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with strong career outcomes. Median earnings for graduates (~$74,000) land in the top 14% of dental hygiene programs nationally.
- Location: Klamath Falls, OR (main) + Portland-Metro campus
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$10,700 in-state; ~$33,900 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~95%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; strong median earnings for grads; local anesthesia certification included.
25. Farmingdale State College (SUNY)
Farmingdale State College offers one of SUNY’s top Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene programs. The program sends students into clinical externships across Long Island and the NYC metro area and consistently posts high NBDHE pass rates.
- Location: Farmingdale, NY
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion (online)
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$7,700 in-state; ~$17,600 out-of-state (SUNY rate)
- Acceptance Rate: ~61%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; one of the most affordable BSDH programs in the Northeast; strong clinical-externship network.
26. Weber State University
Weber State’s Dental Hygiene program is one of the largest and most respected in the Mountain West, offering a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with both on-campus and online degree-completion pathways. The school also offers a unique Master of Science in Dental Hygiene track.
- Location: Ogden, UT
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion + MSDH
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$6,400 in-state; ~$17,700 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~100% (open admission; DH program itself is selective)
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; affordable tuition; MS option rare among BSDH schools.
27. Howard University
Howard University, the nation’s leading HBCU for dental education, offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene through its College of Dentistry. Howard’s program emphasizes service to underserved communities and the elimination of oral health disparities.
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Program Type: BSDH
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$33,600
- Acceptance Rate: ~30%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; HBCU with a strong legacy of training Black dental professionals; focus on community and equity.
28. MCPHS University
Founded in 1823, the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene at MCPHS University (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences) is the oldest dental hygiene program in the world. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with both traditional and accelerated tracks.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Program Type: BSDH (traditional, accelerated, and post-baccalaureate)
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$37,500
- Acceptance Rate: ~84%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; world’s oldest dental hygiene program (founded 1916 as Forsyth Dental Infirmary); accelerated 20-month BSDH option.
29. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University’s Gene W. Hirschfeld School of Dental Hygiene offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene—one of the few public universities on the East Coast with a graduate dental hygiene program.
- Location: Norfolk, VA
- Program Type: BSDH + MSDH
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$12,200 in-state; ~$33,200 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~89%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; research-focused faculty; one of only ~20 MSDH programs in the U.S.
30. Clayton State University
Clayton State is one of only two institutions in Georgia with a bachelor’s-level dental hygiene program, offering a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with CODA accreditation. The program includes a clinical experience at the Dental Hygiene Care Center, which offers low-cost services to the community.
- Location: Morrow, GA
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$6,500 in-state; ~$22,800 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~57%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; strong NBDHE pass rates; serves metro Atlanta communities.
31.University of Bridgeport
The University of Bridgeport’s Fones School of Dental Hygiene is the founding dental hygiene program in the United States (founded in 1913 by Dr. Alfred C. Fones, the “father of dental hygiene”). It offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene along with Master’s options.
- Location: Bridgeport, CT
- Program Type: BSDH + MS in Dental Hygiene + MS in Human Nutrition–Dental Hygiene
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$35,000
- Acceptance Rate: ~53%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; home of the original dental hygiene program in the U.S.; historic legacy combined with modern tech.
32. Northern Arizona University
NAU offers a highly regarded Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene along with an online BS degree-completion program and an MS in Dental Hygiene. The program includes training at NAU’s Dental Clinic, which provides low-cost services to northern Arizona residents.
- Location: Flagstaff, AZ
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion + MSDH
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$12,400 in-state; ~$29,800 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~82%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; rural-health and Indigenous-health focus; strong MS and online completion options.
33. University of South Florida
USF’s Dental Hygiene program offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with a focus on clinical excellence and public health. Students train in USF’s modern clinical facilities and complete community-based rotations throughout the Tampa Bay region.
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$6,400 in-state; ~$17,300 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~44%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; public-health emphasis; one of the most affordable major research-university BSDH programs.
34. Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky University offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with strong placement rates and an emphasis on rural and underserved community health. WKU students gain hands-on experience at the university’s on-campus dental hygiene clinic.
- Location: Bowling Green, KY
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion (online)
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$11,200 in-state; ~$27,100 out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: ~96%
- DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; flexible on-campus and online pathways; strong graduate outcomes in Kentucky and beyond.
35.Pacific University Oregon
Pacific University’s School of Dental Hygiene Studies offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with a unique interprofessional curriculum that connects dental hygiene students with students from optometry, physical therapy, pharmacy, and other health sciences.
- Location: Forest Grove, OR (Hillsboro clinical campus)
- Program Type: BSDH + BS degree-completion (online)
- Undergraduate Tuition (2025–26): ~$54,500
- Acceptance Rate: ~87%
DH Program Highlights: CODA-accredited; interprofessional training with other health professions; small class sizes (~30 students per cohort).
If none of those schools seem like the right fit, here are some more U.S. colleges with a dental hygiene major:
| # | College/University | Location | Degree(s) Offered | Notable Programs/Specialties |
| 1 | Augusta University | Augusta, GA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on geriatric care and public health outreach. |
| 2 | St. Petersburg College | St. Petersburg, FL | Associate’s and BS in Dental Hygiene | Notable for its flexible online BS completion program for working hygienists. |
| 3 | West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV | BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on clinical research and community oral health initiatives. |
| 4 | Ferris State University | Big Rapids, MI | Associate’s and BS in Dental Hygiene | Emphasis on technical proficiency and patient education. |
| 5 | Texas Woman’s University | Denton, TX | BS in Dental Hygiene | Notable for clinical practice and public health dentistry. |
| 6 | University of Nebraska Medical Center | Omaha, NE | BS in Dental Hygiene | Emphasis on leadership in healthcare and advanced clinical techniques. |
| 7 | Idaho State University | Pocatello, ID | Associate’s and BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on rural health care and preventive dentistry. |
| 8 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney, WA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specializes in community oral health and preventive practices. |
| 9 | University of Maine at Augusta | Augusta, ME | Associate’s and BS in Dental Hygiene | Notable for its clinical care and public health outreach. |
| 10 | University of Mississippi Medical Center | Jackson, MS | BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on patient management and clinical care in underserved communities. |
| 11 | Rutgers University | Newark, NJ | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specializes in urban oral health care and preventive dentistry. |
| 12 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on community outreach and preventive care in underserved areas. |
| 13 | University of Hawaii at Manoa | Honolulu, HI | BS in Dental Hygiene | Notable for cultural competence in dental care and patient education. |
| 14 | Georgia State University | Atlanta, GA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specialization in public health dentistry and patient management. |
| 15 | University of Maryland – Baltimore | Baltimore, MD | BS in Dental Hygiene | Strong focus on clinical research and public health care. |
| 16 | Lake Washington Institute of Technology | Kirkland, WA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specialized in hands-on clinical training and community care. |
| 17 | Cypress College | Cypress, CA | Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene | Focus on preventive care and clinical dental practices. |
| 18 | Century College | White Bear Lake, MN | Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene | Emphasis on patient-centered care and clinical experience. |
| 19 | University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center | Oklahoma City, OK | BS in Dental Hygiene | Known for strong clinical training and public health dentistry. |
| 20 | West Coast University – Orange County | Anaheim, CA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specializes in community oral health and dental hygiene technologies. |
| 21 | University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston | Houston, TX | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specialization in preventive dentistry and community health. |
| 22 | University of New Mexico | Albuquerque, NM | BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on community health and preventive dental care in underserved populations. |
| 23 | University of South Dakota | Vermillion, SD | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specialization in rural health care and advanced preventive dentistry. |
| 24 | University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | BS in Dental Hygiene | Emphasis on preventive oral care and community outreach programs. |
| 25 | University of the Pacific | Stockton, CA | BS in Dental Hygiene | Known for accelerated programs and interdisciplinary education. |
| 26 | Wichita State University | Wichita, KS | BS in Dental Hygiene | Notable for public health outreach and dental hygiene technology. |
| 27 | Youngstown State University | Youngstown, OH | BS in Dental Hygiene | Specializes in clinical practice and interdisciplinary health education. |
| 28 | University of Louisville | Louisville, KY | BS in Dental Hygiene | Strong focus on clinical practice and public health initiatives. |
| 29 | West Liberty University | West Liberty, WV | BS in Dental Hygiene | Focus on comprehensive clinical training and community outreach. |
The Benefits of Pursuing a Dental Hygiene Degree
Pursuing a dental hygiene degree can offer a wide range of benefits, from competitive salaries to strong personal fulfillment. Here are some of the key advantages of becoming a dental hygienist:
Job Stability and Demand
Dental hygiene is an in-demand profession. As the population becomes more aware of the importance of oral health, the need for dental hygienists continues to rise. This high demand translates to excellent job stability for those entering the field.
Competitive Salaries
Dental hygienists enjoy competitive salaries with an average hourly pay of $52/hour, making it an attractive career option. This compensation reflects the level of education and experience necessary to become a dental hygienist, and it allows professionals to achieve a comfortable income.
Flexible Work Settings
Dental hygienists have the flexibility to work in various settings. They can be employed in private dental offices, public health clinics, hospitals, schools, and even research institutions. With such a diverse array of work environments, dental hygienists will find it easy to get a job that aligns with their personal preferences.
Shorter Educational Path
Compared to some healthcare professions, becoming a dental hygienist typically requires less time and financial investment. Most dental hygiene programs take around two to four years to complete, allowing dental hygienists to enter the workforce more quickly.
Positive Job Satisfaction
Dental hygienists often report a high level of job satisfaction. Working closely with patients to improve their oral health and witnessing the positive impact of their efforts can be gratifying.
Ability to Promote Oral Health
Dental hygienists play a vital role in preventive care, educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of regular dental check-ups. By helping individuals maintain healthy teeth and gums, dental hygienists contribute to their patients’ overall wellbeing.
Opportunities for Advancement
While dental hygiene can be a rewarding career on its own, it offers multiple opportunities for advancement. Some dental hygienists may pursue further education or certifications to become educators, researchers, or administrators within the dental field.
Fulfilling Patient Interaction
Dental hygienists often build strong relationships with their patients over time. This interaction allows them to develop rapport and trust with patients, creating a more comfortable and positive dental experience.
Contribution to Community Health
Dental hygienists play a major role in public health, contributing to community outreach and promoting oral hygiene in underserved populations. This aspect of the profession can be deeply fulfilling for individuals passionate about making a difference in their communities.
Work-Life Balance
Many dental hygienists enjoy a healthy work-life balance. They may have the option to choose part-time or flexible work schedules, allowing them to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.
If you have a passion for oral health and helping others, pursuing a dental hygiene major could be the first step in a rewarding career.
Factors to Consider When Comparing Dental Hygiene Schools
Which dental hygiene program is right for you? Here are a few factors to consider:
Accreditation
When choosing a college for dental hygiene, ensure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). CODA accreditation is necessary to qualify for licensure after graduation.
Faculty and Facilities
Research the faculty in the school’s dental hygiene department to see if they have the clinical experience and topical expertise that you are looking for. Additionally, consider the availability and quality of the dental facilities and equipment, as practical training is crucial to becoming a dental hygienist.
Clinical Training Opportunities
Look for programs that offer ample clinical training opportunities. Hands-on experience in real dental settings helps students develop the skills and confidence to excel in their future careers.
Job Placement and Alumni Success
Explore the college’s track record of job placement and the success of their dental hygiene program alumni. A strong network of successful graduates can indicate a college’s commitment to student success.
Financial Considerations
Evaluate the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses associated with the dental hygiene program. Research scholarship opportunities or financial aid options that can alleviate the financial burden of pursuing a degree.
So, which dental hygiene school is best for you?
Choosing the right college and dental hygiene program is a crucial step towards building a successful career in oral health. All of the top U.S. dental hygienist colleges mentioned in this blog post offer exceptional dental hygiene programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in this rapidly growing field.
With dedication and the right educational foundation, aspiring dental hygienists can look forward to a fulfilling and impactful career promoting oral health and wellbeing
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