To give you an idea, there are over 18 Dental Hygienist Schools in Florida that provide a solid educational foundation in the field of dental hygiene. The American Dental Association’s Commission granted national accreditation to the majority of them. They’re also ready to help you prepare for the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). As a result, we determined that ranking the 10 best Dental Hygienist Schools in Florida was required. Where you may learn more about Dental Hygiene and how to become a professional. We are certain that these colleges will help you get a career as a Dental Hygienist wherever you choose to work in the future.
What is Dental Hygiene all about? Is it a good career?
Dental hygiene entails combining extensive knowledge of oral health with a sincere desire to assist others. You’ll be expected to conduct specialized procedures and treatments like a dental hygienist. Your efforts can have a significant influence on a patient’s dental health. Dental hygienists, on the other hand, do more than merely clean and polish teeth. They work as instructors. They provide their patients’ important advice on how to keep their mouths, teeth, and gums healthy. This enables them to take care of their oral hygiene and avoid decay on their own. As a result, dental hygienists play an essential role in the oral care industry. Becoming a dental hygienist may be a rewarding professional path with several chances for advancement. It’s never too late to return to school, no matter what stage of life you’re in. You may achieve your goals in dental hygiene regardless of your prior experience or qualifications.
WHAT DO DENTAL HYGIENISTS DO?
Dental hygienists work in public and private dental clinics and hospitals with both adults and children. Educating patients on how to maintain good oral hygiene and general dental health. They also use a variety of dental devices to carry out dental procedures. You may be doing one of the following on a daily basis:
Plaque removalCleaning and polishing of teeth to help avoid gum disease.Application of Fluoride to prevent tooth decay.Under the guidance of a dentist, administering a local anesthetic.Applying temporary coatings and sealants to help safeguard the teeth.Educating your patients on proper tooth brushing and flossing techniques.Pre and post-appointment equipment sterilization.Checking and maintaining patient records to ensure that they are up to date in preparation for future visits.
You’ll also need to be a great communicator because you’ll be dealing with a variety of individuals and healthcare professionals. It’s important to be able to reassure your patients. Many individuals are afraid of dental clinics, therefore it is your job to put them at rest. Being sensitive and empathetic can help you to become a valuable addition to your patients and colleagues. All of these can be accomplished by attending one of the best dental hygienist schools in Florida. Also read: 13 Best Dental Schools In North Carolina NC | 2022
WHAT IS A DENTAL HYGIENIST SCHOOL LIKE?
It’s worth noting that as a dental hygienist, you can continue your education while working, as long as you’ve earned at least an associate degree and passed the board exam. Aspiring dental hygienists must meet a number of educational and training requirements, which include:
1. Complete A High School Diploma Or Equivalent
To apply to an associate or bachelor’s degree program, you must have a high school diploma. Biology, anatomy, physiology, and other science specialties can all help you prepare for dental school.
2. Choose An Accredited Dental Hygienist School And Complete An Associate Degree
You should pick a dental hygiene program that is recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation since there are several to choose from. It usually takes two to four years to complete all of the educational requirements for a dental hygienist program. Anatomy, physiology, immunology, and pathology will all be covered in class. Students will be required to undergo on-the-job training under the direct supervision of a licensed hygienist near the end of the program.
3. Complete A Bachelor’s Degree (Optional)
Following completion of an associate degree, some dental hygienists opt to work. Others could go for a bachelor’s degree. Some prospective dental hygienists may get a master’s degree in order to engage in research or education.
4. Obtain National And State Licensing
To practice as a dental hygienist, you must have a state license and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. The test is divided into two sections, each having 350 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you must obtain a score of at least 75. The state examinations differ based on where you work. After passing both examinations, you will be certified as a Registered Dental Hygienist.
Education Levels For Dental Hygienists
While some dental hygienist jobs require only an associate degree, some require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Each educational level determines the exact activities and job titles that you are qualified for, which include: Associate Degree An Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene prepares you to work as a general dental hygienist. You may work in most private dental clinics if you have an associate degree and are licensed. Bachelor’s Degree A Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene prepares you to work in a community health clinic or in a school environment with dental specialties. Earning a bachelor’s degree might also help you stand out as a candidate when applying for open dental hygienist employment. Master’s Degree A master’s degree is required for dental hygienists who wish to educate and train other students to work in the dental sector. Dental hygienists with a master’s degree might serve as preventive specialists or establish local community health outreach initiatives. Dental hygienists with a master’s degree may also be part of research projects.
WHY STUDY DENTAL HYGIENE IN FLORIDA?
Studying in Florida can be a life-changing experience for you. Especially if you wish to work as a professional dental hygienist. Many dental hygienist schools in Florida take pleasure in producing some of the top dental hygienists in the country. It’s also a benefit to attend the best dental hygienist schools in Florida. This is because they provide not just the best in classroom learning, but also the best in on-the-ground learning. Their teaching method is unique in that it teaches you to combine empathy, critical thinking, and professionalism in the execution of your duties.
How Much Does A Dental Hygienist Earn In Florida?
Dental hygienists provide oral hygiene services such as teeth cleaning and disease detection. The average salary for dental hygienists in Florida, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was $31.82 per hour or $66,170 per year. These estimates are reasonable, although they may vary based on the region and dental clinic/hospital with whom you are dealing.
How Much Does A Dental Hygienist School In Florida Cost?
The length of time and money it will take you to complete your dental hygiene education in Florida varies based on the sort of program you pick. A two-year associate degree costs $42,590 or less, but a four-year bachelor’s degree costs up to $77,800. If you want to get a master’s degree, you’ll have to go back to school for another one or two years after you finish your bachelor’s degree, and you’ll have to pay an extra $23,160 to $71,520.
Which Body Accredits Dental Hygienist Schools In Florida?
To become a certified dental hygienist in Florida, you must first finish an associate program that has been authorized by the Commission On Dental Accreditation (CODA). The Commission on Dental Accreditation serves the public and the profession by creating and enforcing accreditation standards that encourage and monitor dental education program quality and progress. In Florida, there are currently 18 CODA-accredited programs.
What Are The Best 10 Dental Hygienist Schools In Florida ?
Attending one of the best dental hygienist schools in Florida can help you stand out from the crowd and land the highest-paying dental hygienist jobs after you finish. With that stated, Florida offers a wide range of high-quality schools, making it tough to make a final selection. As a result, we’ve looked into some of the best dental hygienist schools in Florida to assist you. All of these schools have been accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Miami Dade CountyPalm Beach State CollegeGulf Coast State CollegeSanta Fe College – FloridaSouth Florida State CollegeEastern Florida State CollegeBroward CollegeValencia CollegeTallahassee Community CollegeHillsborough Community College
1. MIAMI DADE COLLEGE
Miami Dade College has one of the best dental hygiene programs in Florida, with a rating of 4.7/5. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has granted this training program accreditation to offer associate and bachelor degrees. Not only that, but the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation has given the program its seal of approval. The curriculum lasts around three (3) years and includes a variety of learning choices, including MDC LIVE, a 100% virtual learning environment, MDC Online, and in-person classroom teaching. As a result, once you complete the program you will be ELIGIBLE to take the American Dental Association’s National Dental Hygiene Board Examination as well as the Florida Dental Hygiene Board Examination. Admission Requirements: Selection is based on the completion of the prerequisite courses. Candidates become licensed after graduation. View “prerequisite” courses Here. Program Tuition: Estimated $10,403.36 Complete tuition information can be found here: Miami Dade College Tuition and Fees Accreditation: Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Address: 950 NW 20th St Miami, FL 33127 APPLY NOW
2. PALM BEACH STATE COLLEGE
The dental hygiene program at Palm Beach State College in Florida is a two-year curriculum that leads to an Associates’s Degree in Dental Hygiene. The American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation (ADA CODA) has given this curriculum its seal of approval. Participating in this Dental Hygiene program, you will be trained in both an in-class and clinical environment as part of the CORE curriculum. As part of the clinical module, you will provide preventative dental treatment to community patients in order to get familiar with the key dental procedures. Furthermore, the Palm Beach dental hygiene school can help you prepare for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. After passing the national exam, you’ll be ELIGIBLE to sit for a state or regional licensing exam, which is necessary for licensure. Admission Requirements:
Standard High School diploma or GED.Satisfied Developmental Education either by submission of placement test scores or qualifying exemption.
Minimum overall cumulative GPA requirement 2.0.
A points system will be utilized to decide program acceptance after the minimum qualifying requirements have been satisfied. There is no minimum number of points required for admission; the more points you get, the more likely you are to be accepted. Program Tuition: Estimated at $15,000.00 Accreditation: Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Address: 4200 Congress Avenue Lake Worth, FL 33461 APPLY NOW
3. GULF COAST STATE COLLEGE
The dental hygiene program in Florida’s Gulf Coast receives a 4.4/5 rating. It is designed to give you a foundation of clinical skills and academic knowledge about the Dental Hygiene process of treatment. You will earn an Associate in Science degree (AS) in dental hygiene and will be eligible to sit for national and state board tests in any U.S. state after graduation. Admission Requirements: Please view complete ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS here – Gulf Coast State College Admission Requirements (General/Dental) Program tuition: Estimated at $98.76 per credit hour Accreditation: Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Address: 5230 West Highway 98 Panama City, FL 32401 APPLY NOW
4. SANTA FE COLLEGE-FLORIDA
Santa Fe College has one of Florida’s best dental hygiene programs. Over the course of two (2) years, the training curriculum includes both in-class and clinical modules. The primary OBJECTIVE of this program is to assist you in developing ethical and professional attitudes that you will be able to use once you begin working as a dental hygienist. You must presently devote 35-40 hours a week to your studies, and after graduation, you will be ELIGIBLE to take the Florida state licensing exam for dental hygiene. The American Dental Association has given the Santa Fe dental hygiene program its seal of approval. Admission Requirements:
Applicants who have completed a Dental Assisting vocational program, hold DANB certification, and have one year of chair-side experience (within five (5) years of application) should apply to the Dental Hygiene Board Program to earn credit for prior courses.Possess a 2.50 or higher overall college GPA.
At the time of application, write a short interest essay (no more than 500 words). On the online application screen, you’ll find the criteria and directions for submitting your application. Program Tuition and Cost: Estimated at $17,502.76 Accreditation: American Dental Association Address: 3000 NW 83rd Street Gainesville, FL 32606 APPLY NOW
5. SOUTH FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE
South Florida State College is one of Florida’s best dental hygiene programs, with graduates earning an Associate in Science degree (AS). The American Dental Association Commission has accredited the curriculum, which lasts two (2) years. Both in-class and clinical courses will be offered to you. The training program is designed to provide you the skills you’ll need to succeed as dental hygienists after you graduate and enter the job. After graduation, you’ll be ELIGIBLE to take the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination and the Florida Dental Hygiene Board Examination, both of which are required by the American Dental Association. Admission Requirements:
Complete an online South Florida State College Admissions Application and select Dental Hygiene-AS for major/program.
To prove high school graduation, submit an official high school transcript, GED, or equivalent to the Office of the Registrar. If you are still in high school, you must be 18 years old and have received your graduation before the start of the autumn semester.
Official college transcripts must be submitted to show completion of all necessary courses and all additional college work attempted. A total program prerequisite GPA of 2.75.
All Science courses must have been taken within five years of application to the program.
All remedial courses must be completed to be eligible for college-level courses.
By the application deadline, you must have completed 40 hours of observation/work at a general dentist office/clinic. Your dental hygiene program application must include the Dental Hygiene Observation Hours form, which must be completed and submitted online.
Tuition: $105.42 per credit hour Accreditation: American Dental Association. Address: 600 West College Drive Avon Park, FL 33825. APPLY NOW
6. EASTERN FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE
The American Dental Association Commission has fully approved Eastern Florida State College’s dental program, which lasts two (2) years. You will obtain an Associate in Science degree in Dental Hygiene after successfully completing the program. The dental hygiene program at the EFSC in Florida has been designed to give you the foundation you’ll need to EXCEL as a dental hygienist once you graduate. General education, science education, and dental-specific courses will all be included in the curriculum. Not only that, but you will study in class as well as participate in clinical practice under the supervision of EFSC experts. Having stated that, You may apply for and take state licensing examinations in any of the 50 states after graduating and passing the National Board Examination. Admission Requirements:
Before being admitted, you must submit a completed physical exam form along with documentation of vaccinations and titers.Through EFSC, you must acquire “professional liability” and “accident” insurance. It is strongly advised that you purchase personal health insurance.
Before beginning the clinical component of the program, you must have a current American Heart Association course “BLS for Healthcare Providers” CPR certification. Every two years, this CPR certification must be renewed.
Checking your background and running a drug test (Criminal History Information Request).
To graduate from the Dental Hygiene program, all general education and scientific support courses must be complete satisfactorily with a grade of “C” or above. To be considered, science and support courses must have been completed within the last ten years.
Program Tuition and Cost: Estimated at $9,152 Address: 1519 Clearlake Road Cocoa, FL 32922 APPLY NOW
7. BROWARD COLLEGE
You’ll get an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene after graduating from Broward College. The program is two (2) years long in total. Broward College’s “1+1” curriculum format allows you to acquire both a Dental Assistant and a Dental Hygiene certification. The training program gives you both in-class and clinical lab time so that you may gain practical experience before joining the profession. Having stated that, The Commission on Dental Accreditation has given the programs in dental hygiene and dental assisting the accreditation status of Approval Without Reporting Requirements. Admission Requirements:
Minimum GPA of 2.5.
You must have completed a Florida Dental Assisting program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) within the previous three years and possess current national certification as a Dental Assistant (DANB) (CDA). A minimum grade of ‘C’ is required in each dental assisting and general education course.
Before completing the Health Science Application, you must complete all General Education and college course prerequisites.
Completion of a limited access application in the field of health sciences
Tuition: Estimated at $117.90 per credit hour Address: 111 East Las Olas Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. APPLY NOW
8. VALENCIA COLLEGE
Valencia College, in Orlando, Florida, educates you to become a licensed primary oral health care provider. Its dental hygiene program is a two-year curriculum that culminates in an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree. Not to add, if you graduate SUCCESSFULLY, you will be ELIGIBLE to take the National Dental Hygiene Board Exam. Valencia College’s dental hygiene program is fully recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Admission Requirements: Please view Admission Checklist here –Valencia Dental Hygiene Admission Requirements Tuition: Estimated at $103.06 per credit hour. Address: Valencia College P.O. Box 3028 Orlando, FL 32802-3028. APPLY NOW
9. TALLAHASSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
The dental hygiene program at Tallahassee College in Florida prepares you to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and become a licensed dental hygienist. The degree prepares you to execute all of the legal duties that dental hygienists are allowed to conduct in Florida in a safe and effective manner. The curriculum lasts two (2) years, and you will graduate with an Associate in Science (A.S.) in dental hygiene. The American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation has granted Tallahassee College’s dental hygiene program accreditation. Having stated that, You’ll spend time learning in both a classroom setting and a clinical lab setting. Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Dental Hygiene program, you must meet all College entrance criteria and finish the program’s prerequisite courses with a minimum unrounded GPA of 2.2 and a cumulative college GPA of 2.5. Program Tuition and Cost: Estimated at $8,873.00 Address: 444 Appleyard Drive Tallahassee, FL 32304 APPLY NOW
10. HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE
The dental hygiene program at Hillsborough College in Florida is two (2) years long and consists of 88 total credit hours. You will obtain an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in dental hygiene if you graduate SUCCESSFULLY. This dental hygiene course equips you with the skills and information necessary to succeed as a licensed dental hygienist. You must be willing to devote 35-40 hours per week to the program, and you will be ELIGIBLE to take both the NATIONAL and STATE dental hygiene board examinations after you’ve completed it. “The American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation has granted the Dental Hygiene Program formal “full accreditation” status. This designation assures students that the school has completed the first accreditation standards necessary for graduation from an authorized dental hygiene program.” Admission Requirements: Please view Admission Checklist here – Hillsborough Community College Admission Requirements Program Tuition and Cost: Estimated at $18,315.00 Address: Health Sciences Division Hillsborough Community College Dale Mabry Campus 4001 West Tampa Bay Boulevard Tampa, FL. APPLY NOW Two years of dental hygiene curriculum are combined with two brief summer sessions in the Dental Hygiene Program. To be admitted into the Dental Hygiene program, you must first complete the general education requirements and prerequisites. As of 2020, the average Dental Assistant pay in Florida is $41,170 ($19.79 per hour), with a salary range of $34,490 to $48,520. Although the entry criteria for a dental hygienist degree vary per institution, it is suggested that you have at least a 2.5 GPA. If your GPA isn’t quite where you’d like it to be, there are other parts of the application process where you may shine and compensate. A job as a dental hygienist is both gratifying and demanding. Qualifying in this field provides up a variety of career options in a variety of situations, including part-time and full-time positions. Dental hygiene is an excellent career choice.
Conclusion
One of the finest things that may happen to you is to become a Dental Hygienist in Florida. In Florida, dental hygienists may be in charge of applying preventative materials. In addition, oral health education and patient treatment suggestions are provided. Again, diseases and oral lesions are identified, and dental hygiene practices are managed. Courses differ in Dental Hygiene Programs. That is all the more reason why you should enroll in one of the Best Dental Hygienist Schools in Florida
References
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