Dental hygiene is a vital aspect of oral health. Patients need to maintain a regular cleaning schedule if they want to prevent the onset of gum disease, cavities, or other dental issues. Dental hygienists play a vital role in ensuring patient health by cleaning teeth and performing routine procedures. Hence, education and training for dental hygienist professionals must be aligned with global standards.
Many colleges and universities around the world offer dental hygiene programs that are considered among the best in the field. Here are some of the top institutions that offer education and training in dental hygiene.
1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Dental Hygiene Program
The dental hygiene program at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is considered one of the best in the world. The program provides students with a four-year Bachelor of Science degree that includes clinical studies and classroom coursework. The program teaches students about anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and more. In addition, students can choose to specialize in areas such as pediatric dentistry, geriatric dentistry, and public health.
2. University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry
The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry offers a dental hygiene program that is considered among the best in Canada. The program is designed to provide students with the necessary skills to work as a preventative oral health professional. Students learn about periodontal therapy, pharmacology, and oral pathology. The program is also focused on improving students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
3. A.T. Still University Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health
This institution offers a dental hygiene program that provides students with skills and knowledge needed to work in the field. Students study oral anatomy, periodontology, radiology, and more. The program also covers sign language which gives students an edge over others. Upon graduation, students will have a Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene.
4. University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
The dental hygiene program at the University of Southern California is another top program to consider. Students learn how to care for patients with various oral health problems, including gum disease, cavities, and oral cancer. They also learn about oral health promotion and screening programs. The program is far-reaching and is offered as a Bachelor of Science degree.
5. University of British Columbia Faculty of Dentistry
The University of British Columbia is renowned for offering one of the best dental hygiene programs in the country. The program delves into the underlying scientific principles that relate to oral disease and health. Students learn about periodontics, pharmacology, community dentistry, and other similar courses needed to prepare them for a career as a dental hygienist.
6. University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Minnesota School of Dentistry offers a well-structured program in dental hygiene that prepares students to work as them. Students learn about topics like pharmacology, community oral health, and radiography. The program emphasizes patient care, and students can choose to specialize in areas like periodontics, orthodontics, and pediatric dentistry.
Conclusion
Dental hygiene is a field that is essential to maintain oral hygiene. Global standards for dental hygiene programs are well-maintained by institutions worldwide. If you are looking to pursue a career in dental hygiene, then make sure to consider some of these top colleges and universities for the best education and training in the field.
