Introduction
Dental hygienists are professionals who specialize in preventive oral health care. They provide patient care by examining teeth and gums, taking x-rays, cleaning teeth, teaching patients how to care for their teeth, and providing other preventive dental care services. To become a dental hygienist, there are certain educational requirements that must be met. This article will explore the number of years of schooling required to become a dental hygienist.
The Path to Becoming a Dental Hygienist: How Many Years of Schooling?
In order to become a dental hygienist, you must obtain the proper education and training. The amount of time it takes to become a dental hygienist depends on the type of degree you pursue and the state in which you practice. Here is a look at what education is needed to become a dental hygienist and how many years of schooling it may take.
What Education is Needed to Become a Dental Hygienist?
The minimum educational requirement to become a dental hygienist is an associate degree in dental hygiene. However, some states require a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene or a related field. In addition to completing a degree program, dental hygienists must also pass a state licensing exam and complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.
Exploring the Number of Years of Schooling to Become a Dental Hygienist
The amount of time it takes to become a dental hygienist depends on the level of education you pursue. Here is a look at the different types of degrees available and how long it takes to earn each one.
A Guide to the Amount of Education Required to Become a Dental Hygienist
Bachelor’s Degree or Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene
To become a dental hygienist, the minimum educational requirement is an associate degree in dental hygiene. An associate degree in dental hygiene typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene may be required in some states, and this typically takes four years of full-time study.
Completion of State Licensing Exam and Continuing Education
Once you have completed your degree program, you must then pass a state licensing exam. After passing the state licensing exam, you must complete continuing education courses to maintain your license. The amount of continuing education required varies from state to state.
Obtaining a Certificate or Master’s Degree
In addition to an associate degree or bachelor’s degree, some dental hygienists choose to pursue a certificate or master’s degree in dental hygiene. A certificate program typically takes one year to complete, while a master’s degree typically takes two additional years of study.
How Long Does It Take To Become a Dental Hygienist?
Timeframe for Earning an Associate Degree
An associate degree in dental hygiene typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. During this time, students will take classes such as dental anatomy, periodontics, pathology, pharmacology, and dental materials.
Timeframe for Earning a Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. During this time, students will take courses in dental anatomy, periodontics, pathology, pharmacology, and dental materials, as well as courses in business management, communication, and research.
Timeframe for Obtaining a Master’s Degree
A master’s degree in dental hygiene typically takes two additional years of study. During this time, students will take courses in advanced dental hygiene, public health, research methods, and ethics.
Conclusion
Becoming a dental hygienist requires a certain amount of education and training. Depending on the type of degree you pursue and the state in which you practice, the amount of time it takes to become a dental hygienist can vary. An associate degree in dental hygiene typically takes two years of full-time study to complete, while a bachelor’s degree typically takes four years of full-time study. In addition, most states require dental hygienists to pass a state licensing exam and complete continuing education courses to maintain their license. Becoming a dental hygienist can be a rewarding career choice, as it offers a chance to make a difference in people’s lives and promote good oral health.
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