The demand for skilled dental hygienists is on the rise, and Ivy Tech Community College is one of the institutions that offers a comprehensive Dental Hygienist program to meet this growing need. As a healthcare professional, a dental hygienist plays a crucial role in promoting oral health and preventing diseases. In this article, we will delve into the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program, exploring its curriculum, admission requirements, and career prospects.
Program Overview
The Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree that prepares students to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and the Clinical Licensure Examination. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to excel in the field.
Curriculum
The Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program curriculum is comprehensive and covers various aspects of dental hygiene, including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Oral pathology
- Pharmacology
- Radiology
- Dental materials
- Clinical dental hygiene
- Community health
Students will also participate in clinical rotations, where they will work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Completion of prerequisite courses, including biology, chemistry, and math
- TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) scores
- Observation hours in a dental hygiene clinic
Applicants must also submit a program application, which includes a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program is competitive, and applicants are chosen based on their academic performance, TEAS scores, and observation hours. The program uses a point system to evaluate applicants, with points awarded for GPA, TEAS scores, and observation hours.
Clinical Experience
The Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program provides students with extensive clinical experience, where they work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists. Clinical rotations take place in various settings, including community clinics, hospitals, and private dental practices.
Clinical Sites
Ivy Tech has partnerships with various clinical sites, including:
- Community clinics
- Hospitals
- Private dental practices
These partnerships provide students with a diverse range of clinical experiences, preparing them for the demands of the profession.
Career Prospects
The demand for skilled dental hygienists is on the rise, and graduates of the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program have excellent career prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 6% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Job Opportunities
Graduates of the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program can pursue various job opportunities, including:
- Private dental practices
- Community clinics
- Hospitals
- Public health organizations
- Educational institutions
Graduates can also pursue advanced degrees, such as a Bachelor's or Master's degree in dental hygiene or a related field.
Gallery of Dental Hygienist Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program?
+The Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.
Is the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program accredited?
+Yes, the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
What are the admission requirements for the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program?
+Applicants must meet the minimum GPA requirement, complete prerequisite courses, and submit TEAS scores and observation hours.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Ivy Tech Dental Hygienist program. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about the program, please don't hesitate to contact us. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below, and don't forget to share this article with others who may be interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene.