5 Steps To Become A Dental Hygienist At Midlands Tech

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene? Do you want to learn the steps to become a dental hygienist at Midlands Technical College (Midlands Tech)? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of becoming a dental hygienist at Midlands Tech. But first, let's explore the importance of dental hygiene and the role of a dental hygienist.

Dental hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. Dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning teeth, examining patients for oral diseases, and providing preventative dental care. They work closely with dentists to ensure patients receive comprehensive oral care. As a dental hygienist, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives by helping them maintain good oral health and preventing oral diseases.

Now, let's dive into the steps to become a dental hygienist at Midlands Tech.

Step 1: Meet the Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the dental hygiene program at Midlands Tech, you must meet certain admission requirements. These requirements include:

• Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
• Take the required prerequisite courses, such as biology, chemistry, and math
• Achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5
• Take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exam

Step 2: Complete the Prerequisite Courses

Before applying to the dental hygiene program, you must complete the required prerequisite courses. These courses include:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Math
• English
• Psychology

These courses will prepare you for the rigorous academic coursework in the dental hygiene program. You can take these courses at Midlands Tech or transfer them from another institution.

Step 3: Apply to the Dental Hygiene Program

Once you have completed the prerequisite courses, you can apply to the dental hygiene program at Midlands Tech. The application process typically includes:

• Submitting an application to the college
• Providing transcripts from previous institutions
• Taking the TEAS exam
• Participating in an interview with the program director

The dental hygiene program at Midlands Tech is competitive, so it's essential to meet the admission requirements and submit a strong application.

Step 4: Complete the Dental Hygiene Program

The dental hygiene program at Midlands Tech is a two-year program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. The program covers topics such as:

• Oral anatomy
• Periodontology
• Pharmacology
• Dental hygiene techniques

You will also participate in clinical rotations, where you will work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed dentists and dental hygienists.

Step 5: Pass the Licensing Exam

After completing the dental hygiene program, you will be eligible to take the licensing exam. The licensing exam is administered by the American Dental Association (ADA) and is required to practice as a dental hygienist in the state of South Carolina.

To prepare for the licensing exam, you can take a review course or practice with sample questions. The exam will test your knowledge and skills in areas such as oral anatomy, periodontology, and dental hygiene techniques.

Gallery of Dental Hygiene Program at Midlands Tech

FAQs

We hope this article has provided you with the necessary information to become a dental hygienist at Midlands Tech. Remember to meet the admission requirements, complete the prerequisite courses, apply to the dental hygiene program, complete the program, and pass the licensing exam. Good luck on your journey to becoming a dental hygienist!