Most hygienists earn an associate degree in dental hygiene. Training is available at community colleges, trade schools and universities. (This focused training is one of the reasons this career is included in SkillPointe’s list of top jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree.) Students may also earn a bachelor’s degree if they want to go into research, teach or do clinical practice in a public health setting.
Most dental schools’ programs include time in the classroom and lab plus hands-on clinical practice.
After graduating from an accredited dental hygiene program, hygienists must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, a written exam. Hygienists will also need to earn a license from the state dental board, which requires passing a clinical exam. Specific licensing requirements vary by state. SkillPointe provides a licensing database. (See link below.) The American Dental Association (ADA) website provides a directory of state dental boards.