About the Profession

Registered dental hygienists are licensed oral health care professionals. Dental hygienists provide direct patient care services that limit the extent of cavities and periodontal disease, as well as promote the overall health and well-being of the oral environment and head and neck region.

Dental hygienists assess general and oral health by using a variety of diagnostic aids (comprehensive health histories, head, neck and oral examinations, radiographs and indices). Using the information obtained from the assessment process, the hygienist develops a care plan in conjunction with the patient's goals and needs, provides oral health education and performs preventive (fluorides, sealants) and therapeutic services (non-surgical periodontal therapy) according to individual needs. Baccalaureate graduates are employed as clinical practitioners, educators, researchers, administrators, managers, preventive program developers, consultants, and in public health agencies. Registered (licensed) dental hygienists practice according to the requirements of individual state dental practice acts. 

Dental hygiene at the UMMC is a two-year upper division program which prepares graduates to become registered dental hygienists.  During the first year at the Medical Center, students study basic and dental sciences and  dental hygiene theory and techniques.  In the next year, emphasis is on clinical experience and application of dental hygiene procedures.  The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council on Post-secondary Accreditataion and the United States Department of Education.