Just so you know, there are over 60 Dental Hygiene Schools in California and across the US that give an excellent educational background in Dental Hygiene. Most of them got accreditation nationally by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. And they are ready to prepare you to take the National Boarddental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE). For this reason, the World Scholarship Forum has deemed it so necessary to rank the Best and Top 10 Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern and Northern California. Where you can study and become a professional Dental Hygienist. We are certain that these schools will gratify you where ever you want to find a job in the future as a Dental Hygienist.
How Do I Become a Dental Hygienist in California?
Dental hygienists in California may be responsible for the application of prevention materials, oral health education, and advice on the treatment of patients. As well as identification of pathologies and oral lesions, and the management of dental hygiene practices. Know More About How Much Schooling Do You Need To Be a Dental Hygienist? To work as a dental hygienist in California, you must have a license from the California Dental Hygiene Committee (DHCC), which requires the following steps:
How Long Does it Take to Become a Dental Hygienist in California?
Candidates for dental hygienists in California usually take about 2 years to complete the necessary Associate Degree programs. From there, they must obtain a license before practicing in the field. Advanced training programs are also available in advanced areas related to dental hygiene. Dental hygienists generally require a bachelor’s or master’s degree to conduct research, public health, or teaching. Students with the required undergraduate education can take a master’s program of four (4) years, either part-time or full-time study.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Dental Hygienist in California?
For dental hygiene, tuition fees depend on the level and type of program you are considering. According to the American Association of Dental Hygienists, the estimated total average cost of tuition and fees for an associate’s degree is $22,692. A bachelor’s degree costs $36,382. The Dental Hygiene program is ADA accredited. Most of the 20,329 students in the school attend two-year programs. State tuition fees are approximately $1,298 per year. Tuition costs for students outside the state of California are $7,038. Don’t be Confused About Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant. You Can Read This 10 Differences You Don’t Know About Dental Hygienist vs Dental Assistant.
Can a Dental Hygienist Work Without a Dentist in California?
The American Association of Dental Hygienists (ADHA) defines direct access as the ability of a dental hygienist to initiate treatment based on its assessment of the patient’s needs without the express permission of a dentist. Dental Hygienists can treat a patient without the presence of a dentist and maintain a provider-patient relationship (ADHA Policy Manual, 13-15).
List of Top 10 Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern and Northern California
The great state of California offers opportunities like a Bachelor and Masters program for prospectives Dental Hygienists. According to the California Employment Development, there were approximately 22,000 Dental hygienists in Southern and Northern California in 2012. Specifically, the department expects an increase of 23.4%, by the end of 2022. Hence, this results in an average of 1,060 annual openings for those residing in California. All dental hygiene programs cover basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biology, and pharmacology. However, some programs offer specialized courses in areas such as dental materials, dental pharmacology and pain relief. Similarly, while all programs teach basic hygiene techniques. Such as the removal of dental plaque and tartar from the teeth, only a handful of them can offer training laboratories in anesthesia techniques and x-ray. Research ahead and choose carefully among the dental hygiene schools in the state of California to find the one that offers what you want.
University of Southern California, Los Angeles
Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry established a dental hygiene program over 80 years ago. Ostrow is dedicated to advancing the dental hygiene profession and serving the community. They offer students comprehensive and complete dental hygiene training, available only here at USC. Also, their program offers dental hygiene students exceptional opportunities to learn from our prestigious dental school and work alongside our talented students. Above all, their faculty includes recognized experts in patient education, advanced non-periodontal therapy, clinical research, and community communication. Approximately 70% of dental hygienists work in private dental offices, 20% in local public and school health programs. And the rest in federal and regional health, industry, research, and teaching positions. Currently, in Heman Ostrow School of Dentistry they have 1 Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, and 2 Masters program in Dental Hygiene. As well as one Certificate program and 3 Doctor of Dentistry program you can study. In addition, they have Online Dental Programs that offer Masters and Certificate programs. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
University of the Pacific, San Francisco
Address: 155 Fifth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 The University of the Pacific offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene to qualified students. In addition to clinical practice, the Bachelor of Dental Hygiene degree provides access to many positions in education, research, administration. As well as public health, the private sector and other areas of hygiene practice. The degree also serves as a powerful catalyst for applications in graduate programs. The clinical part of the dental hygiene program is held on the campus of the University of the Pacific in San Francisco. Which houses other dental programs offered at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. Meanwhile, the mission of the Dental Hygiene Program is to educate people who, at the end of the program, will be professionally competent to provide quality dental care in a changing profession. Their program also offers experimental learning opportunities within the community. A career in dental hygiene offers multiple opportunities in different contexts. About 70% of dental hygienists practice in private dental offices. By providing direct clinical care, the hygienist plays a vital role in the dental team by helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Hygienists can also choose a career in dental hygiene in the areas of public health, research. As well as management, care of patients with special needs, education, and administration. The University of the Pacific is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Universities and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Dental Hygiene Programs vary. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
West Coast University – Orange County, Anaheim
West Coast University offers a different approach to graduation: with a dental hygienist program, you can continue in less than 34 months. It is a learning method designed to help you reach your goals and maximize your potential. The objective of the BSDH program is to prepare students to acquire knowledge, skills, and values of dental hygiene. While building on education in liberal arts and sciences that broadens their vision of health and wellness. This program focuses on the development of dental hygienists as lifelong learners, able to think critically and with a commitment to professional leadership. Upon completion of the program and reviewed by the National Dental Hygiene Council, the graduate will be eligible to perform regional and national accreditation exams to become a registered dental hygienist. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
San Joaquin Valley College, Ontario & Visalia
The SJVC Ontario and Visalia campuses offer the Dental Hygiene Program. Each campus houses a fully equipped clinic for dental hygienist students. This provides them with practical instructions to work with real patients and gain practical experience when completing their studies. All services provided at the dental hygiene clinic are provided by dental hygiene students under the direct supervision of dental hygienists and/or supervising dentists. Above all, their Dental Hygiene students can obtain a science associate degree in approximately 16 months. Graduates are also eligible to write the National Council Written Exam and a State and / or Regional Council Exam to obtain a license to practice as a registered dental hygienist. The dental hygiene program got its accreditation by the Dental Accreditation Commission (CODA) of the American Dental Association. And has the status of “approval without reporting requirements.” The Commission is a specialized accreditation body recognized by the United States Department of Education. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
Foothill College, Los Altos Hills
The Foothill College Dental Hygiene Program now offers a Bachelor of Science degree and prepares you to take the National Dental Hygiene Council exam and qualify for the Dental State or Regional Dental Hygiene License Exam. The schools give admission to students for the program quarterly (fall, winter, and spring). All courses in the program are available online. Students in the program have the option of choosing the number of courses (between 1 and 3) that complete each quarter based on their work schedule. Above all, their AS to BS-DH program provides an in-depth program that includes, among other things, the development of a synthesis project. As well as the acquisition of skills in critical thinking, writing, communication, cultural sensitivity, research, and reporting. Furthermore, the program will be prepared to help dental hygienists interact effectively with other health professionals in a competent, collaborative and ethical manner. Foothill College grants previous apprenticeship credits of 24 first-quarter units for BSDH graduation. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
Diablo Valley College, Pleasant Hill
Diablo Valley College is one of the most respected and affordable dental hygiene programs in the Bay Area. This two-year program includes courses and practical experience in their Community Dental Clinic. Above all, the program is very competitive since only 20 students, chosen by lottery, are admitted every school year. Students must complete their course work in two years, which includes two summer sessions. Furthermore, students who complete the dental hygiene program will be fully prepared to take the required clinical and written exams. Meanwhile, DVC is proud to have achieved a 100% approval rate on national and regional dental hygiene exams. Basically, their dental program offers an associate degree in dental hygiene. The DVC Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the US Dental Association Commission. This program has also been approved by the California Dental Hygiene Committee. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California. The application period for this program is from January 1 to February 15 at 5:00 p.m.
Programs Available
Santa Rosa Junior College, Santa Rosa
A licensed dental hygienist is a health professional who is authorized to provide preventive, educational and therapeutic care that contributes to general health by promoting optimal oral health. The dental hygiene program creates an environment conducive to student learning. Dental hygiene students develop critical and ethical thinking; Decision-making and problem-solving skills based on evidence. Graduates of the program will benefit from professional growth and career development through active participation and affiliation within the industry. Once the dental hygiene program is completed, graduates are ready to apply their knowledge of scientific concepts to assess the patient’s needs, recognize problems, set oral health goals, provide appropriate dental services and evaluate the results. Program costs are approximate and do not include exam and license fees for national boards or states/regions. Fees may vary based on costs related to books, health requirements, supplies, including instrument kits and student tuition. Recommended rates for professional students $50.0. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California. Applications are available on October 2 and must be submitted before 5:00 p.m. on February 7.
Programs Available
Taft College, Taft
The objective of the Taft College Dental Hygiene Program is to inspire and teach comprehensive dental hygiene care in its technical excellence and guidance to become aware of all the health needs of each patient. The Dental Hygiene Program at Taft College provides students with the knowledge, experience and training requirements to take state exams and national councils. As the world increasingly understands preventive and restorative oral health care, the need for oral health professionals is also growing. Graduates in dental hygiene at Taft College are in demand. Taft College Dental Hygiene is accredited by the Dental Accreditation Commission. The next accreditation visit will take place in the spring of 2023. In addition, the California Dental Hygiene Board also approves the program. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California. The 2022 Dental Hygiene application will be available mid-January.
Programs Available
Concorde Career College, San Bernardino
The Accredited Associate Dental Hygiene Program provides practical skills and knowledge in extraoral and intraoral exams, periodontal and dental exams, patient history analysis and dental hygiene assessment risks. Their DH program is on three different campuses, Garden Grove, Aurora, Kansas City, and others. The dental hygiene program is accredited by the Dental Accreditation Commission and has been granted the status of “approval without reporting requirements”. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
Southwestern College, Chula Vista
The dental hygiene program provides training and experience to prepare graduates for certification as dental hygienists. Accepted students will begin each fall semester and continue for two years. Dental hygiene classes are taught at the National Center for Higher Education in the city. Transportation is the responsibility of each student. Students generally have classes five (5) days a week. The goal of the dental hygiene program is to educate students that will affect the general health of the community by positively influencing people’s oral health status. The Southwestern College Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Dental Accreditation Commission (CODA) and has the status of “Approval without reporting requirements” (July 2015). Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
Programs Available
Foothill College Dental Hygiene program has been accredited from the inception of the program in 1964. The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is nationally recognized by the United States Department of Education as the sole agency to accredit dental and dental-related education programs conducted at the post-secondary level.
The Dental Hygiene Program includes two years of dental hygiene coursework, with two short summer sessions. Prior to entering the Dental Hygiene program, completion of general education requirements and prerequisites are required to be accepted to the program.
Beginning with the class entering in 2016, we will be participating in a pilot program, approved by the State Chancellor’s Office, and award the Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene upon successful completion of all courses and program requirements.
See application instructions and forms for the entry-level track to get started.The first two years of preparation/prerequisite courses may be taken at Foothill College or another accredited college.
The Dental Hygiene program holds classes Monday through Friday. While the hours each day may vary from quarter to quarter, generally the courses run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There are some online/hybrid courses in the program. There are occasional evening activities.
Applications can be dropped off in person in the Health Sciences Administrative office located in the Race Building, room 4062, 3rd floor.
Acceptance letters will be emailed by approximately 6-8 weeks after the application deadline. Acceptance and status information will not be given out over the telephone.
After program prerequisites are completed, the Dental Hygiene Program is completed in five semesters, including one summer session. Associate Degree requirements must be completed before completing the program. It is strongly suggested that these Associate Degree courses are completed before beginning the full-time Dental Hygiene program.
Upon completion of the program, you will receive an Associate Degree in Science with a major of Dental Hygiene. You will be eligible to take the Dental Hygiene National Boards and the Dental Hygiene Western Regional Examination Boards or Central Regional Dental Hygiene Boards. After successful completion of the National Boards and the Western or Central Regional Boards you will be eligible to apply for licensure with the Dental Hygiene Committee of California.
Conclusion
Becoming a Dental Hygienist in California is one of the best things that can happen to you. Dental hygienists in California may be responsible for the application of prevention materials. As well as oral health education, and advice on the treatment of patients. And also in the identification of pathologies and oral lesions, and the management of dental hygiene practices. Dental Hygiene Programs vary based on courses. That’s the more reason you should choose to study in one of these Top Dental Hygiene Schools in Southern & Northern California.
