Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene is an essential healthcare field focused on the prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Dental hygienists work closely with dentists to help maintain and improve patients’ oral health. They provide preventive services, such as teeth cleaning, scaling, and fluoride treatments, and educate patients about oral hygiene practices. In addition, dental hygienists may perform diagnostic tests, take radiographs (X-rays), and apply local anesthesia. The profession plays a crucial role in promoting overall health, as poor oral health can impact many other areas of the body.

Associate in Applied Science

Prepares students to become licensed dental hygienists through hands-on clinical training and classroom learning.

About the Program

Dental hygienists play a critical role in promoting oral health and preventing disease. Jackson College’s Dental Hygiene program combines classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and real-world clinical experience to prepare students for licensure and employment. Students learn how to perform cleanings, take x-rays, administer local anesthesia, and educate patients on proper dental care. With training in both technical and patient-centered skills, graduates are well-prepared for careers in dental offices, clinics, schools, and public health settings.

Principles in Dental Hygiene I

Introduces students to the dental hygiene profession and foundational concepts for clinical practice. Includes patient assessment, infection control, instrumentation skills, and clinical procedures.

Pain Management

Covers the theory and clinical application of pain control techniques including local anesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation. Emphasizes patient management and safety.

Periodontics

Focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. Includes anatomy of the periodontium, etiologies, classifications, and current treatment modalities.

Radiology

Provides instruction in the theory and practice of dental radiography. Topics include radiographic techniques, safety, exposure, and interpretation. Clinical application is included.

Career Outlook

Graduates of Jackson College’s Dental Hygiene Associate in Applied Science program can expect to find opportunities as registered dental hygienists in various healthcare settings, including general and specialty dental practices, public health, schools, and hospitals. With an Associate in Applied Science degree, students will be prepared to take national, regional, and state licensure exams, qualifying them for well-compensated and stable positions within the dental field. The demand for skilled dental hygienists continues to grow due to the increasing focus on oral health and preventive care.

Provide preventive care, cleanings, and patient education in dental offices under dentist supervision.

Deliver oral health services and education in community clinics, schools, or health departments.

Teach future hygienists in academic or clinical settings and support student development.

Represent dental products and educate offices on usage, often leveraging clinical experience.

Pay

Understanding potential earnings is an important part of exploring career options.

Median Pay $65,000/yr
Pay: Low End $50,000
Pay: High End $85,000

Salary estimates are based on data from America’s Career InfoNet and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Actual earnings vary by location, industry demand, business size, education, and experience. Check local job listings for the most accurate salary information.

admission process

This program has additional admission requirements beyond general college enrollment. Learn the steps you need to become a student, including completing prerequisites and meeting program-specific criteria, and start your journey today!

Program Resources

Access helpful resources to guide you through your program, including important documents, tools, and support materials.

Dental clinic

Jackson College’s Dental Clinic offers affordable dental services to students, employees, and the community. Operated by dental hygiene students under professional supervision, the clinic provides preventative and routine care while supporting hands-on student learning.

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