Are you interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene? With the increasing demand for oral healthcare professionals, becoming a dental hygienist can be a rewarding and challenging career path. Ivy Tech Community College offers a comprehensive dental hygiene program that can help you achieve your goals. In this article, we will outline the 5 key steps to become a dental hygienist at Ivy Tech.
The role of a dental hygienist is crucial in maintaining the oral health of patients. They work closely with dentists to provide preventative care, educate patients on proper oral hygiene, and perform various procedures to maintain the health of teeth and gums. As a dental hygienist, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives and contribute to the overall well-being of your community.
With the increasing demand for dental hygienists, it's essential to choose a reputable institution that provides a comprehensive education and training program. Ivy Tech Community College is a well-established institution that offers a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in this field.
Step 1: Meet the Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech, you must meet the admission requirements. These requirements include:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete the required prerequisite courses, including anatomy, physiology, and chemistry
- Achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Submit official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities attended
- Complete the Health Science Reasoning Test (HSRT) or the Dental Hygiene Entrance Exam (DHLEE)
Prerequisite Courses
The prerequisite courses for the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II
- Chemistry I and II
- Microbiology
- English Composition I and II
- Psychology
It's essential to note that some courses may have specific requirements or prerequisites. It's recommended to consult with an Ivy Tech advisor to ensure you meet all the admission requirements.
Step 2: Complete the Dental Hygiene Program
The dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech is a two-year associate degree program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in this field.
The program includes courses in:
- Dental anatomy and morphology
- Oral histology and embryology
- Dental hygiene techniques
- Periodontology
- Dental materials
- Pharmacology
- Radiology
Clinical Experience
The dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech includes clinical experience, where students work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists. This hands-on experience provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.
Step 3: Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
After completing the dental hygiene program, you will be eligible to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). This exam is administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE) and is required for licensure in most states.
The NBDHE exam consists of two parts:
- A written exam that tests your knowledge of dental hygiene concepts and techniques
- A clinical exam that evaluates your clinical skills and ability to perform dental hygiene procedures
Step 4: Obtain Licensure
After passing the NBDHE exam, you will be eligible for licensure in the state of Indiana. Licensure requirements may vary depending on the state, so it's essential to check with the Indiana State Board of Dentistry for specific requirements.
Licensure Requirements
To obtain licensure in Indiana, you must:
- Pass the NBDHE exam
- Complete a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
- Submit an application to the Indiana State Board of Dentistry
- Pay the required licensure fee
Step 5: Maintain Certification and Licensure
As a licensed dental hygienist, it's essential to maintain your certification and licensure through continuing education and professional development. The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) offer various continuing education courses and certifications to help you stay current with the latest techniques and research.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain licensure in Indiana, you must complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education every two years. The Indiana State Board of Dentistry requires dental hygienists to complete courses in topics such as infection control, medical emergencies, and dental hygiene techniques.
Gallery of Dental Hygiene Images
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a dental hygienist in Indiana?
+The average salary for a dental hygienist in Indiana is around $70,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How long does it take to complete the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech?
+The dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech is a two-year associate degree program.
Is the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech accredited?
+Yes, the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
In conclusion, becoming a dental hygienist at Ivy Tech requires a commitment to education and training. By following the 5 key steps outlined in this article, you can achieve your goal of becoming a licensed dental hygienist and start a rewarding career in oral healthcare.