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Essay on Dental Hygiene

Students are often asked to write an essay on Dental Hygiene in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Dental Hygiene

Introduction to dental hygiene.

Dental hygiene refers to the practice of keeping our mouths clean and free from disease. This is done by regular brushing and flossing.

Importance of Dental Hygiene

Good dental hygiene is essential for our overall health. It prevents tooth decay, gum diseases, and bad breath. It also helps maintain a bright and confident smile.

Practices for Dental Hygiene

We should brush our teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and visit the dentist regularly. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary snacks also contribute to dental health.

In conclusion, dental hygiene is an essential part of our daily routine. It is vital for our overall well-being.

250 Words Essay on Dental Hygiene

The importance of dental hygiene.

Dental hygiene is about more than just maintaining a bright smile. It is intrinsically linked with your overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various dental and medical problems such as gum disease, infection, heart disease, stroke, and even diabetes.

Practices for Optimal Dental Hygiene

Optimal dental hygiene involves several daily practices. Brushing teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups are the cornerstone of good oral health. Additionally, a balanced diet and limiting snacks can prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Consequences of Neglected Dental Hygiene

Neglected dental hygiene can lead to severe consequences. Tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss are direct outcomes. In the long run, these conditions can lead to more serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and diabetic complications.

Conclusion: The Interplay of Dental Hygiene and Overall Health

In conclusion, dental hygiene is a critical facet of health that extends beyond the oral cavity. It is a preventive measure against a range of diseases and a contributor to overall wellbeing. Hence, it’s crucial to adopt and maintain proper dental hygiene practices for a healthier life.

500 Words Essay on Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene, often overlooked, is a critical aspect of overall health. It involves the maintenance of clean teeth and healthy gums to prevent dental problems such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. The importance of dental hygiene extends beyond oral health, as poor oral hygiene has been linked with serious health issues like heart disease and stroke.

Components of Dental Hygiene

Mouthwash can also be a valuable addition to a dental hygiene routine. It can reach areas that brushing and flossing cannot, reduce the amount of acid in the mouth, re-mineralize the teeth, and help clean the mouth.

The Role of Diet in Dental Health

Diet plays a significant role in dental health. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products can provide essential nutrients for optimum oral health. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks can help prevent tooth decay and erosion.

Regular Dental Check-ups

The connection between oral health and overall health.

Poor oral health can have far-reaching effects on overall health. Research has indicated a link between gum disease and health complications such as heart disease and stroke. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and diseases. Therefore, maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being.

In conclusion, dental hygiene is an integral part of health that requires consistent care and attention. Incorporating proper brushing and flossing techniques, maintaining a balanced diet, and scheduling regular dental check-ups can significantly improve oral health. Understanding the connection between oral health and overall health can provide further motivation for maintaining good dental hygiene.

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Your Mouth Has a Lot to Say About Your Overall Health

The benefits of good dental hygiene go beyond bright smiles. Making sure you’re brushing properly, flossing daily, and keeping up with dental appointments preserves your overall health.

Dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay can contribute to a number of health conditions, including heart disease and pneumonia .

This article provides a quick overview of the conditions associated with poor oral health, those that can make your dental health worse, as well as what you can do to maintain your smile.

What Conditions Are Linked to Poor Oral Hygiene?

Increasingly, researchers are finding significant connections between your overall health and dental health. Poor oral hygiene has been directly linked to pneumonia, a range of serious heart problems, as well as complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Over the last several years, a growing body of evidence has linked dental issues, especially missing teeth and periodontitis (advanced gum disease), with heart disease and other cardiac issues. These cardiac and blood circulation problems include:

  • Coronary heart disease : Also known as atherosclerosis , coronary heart disease arises when arteries in the heart harden, interrupting or entirely blocking blood flow.
  • Heart failure : This is when the heart is unable to pump sufficiently, causing blood to pool in other parts of the body, especially the legs and lungs.  
  • Cardiac arrhythmia : Characterized by irregular, too fast, or too slow heartbeat, cardiac arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), may also arise.  
  • Stroke : Caused by blood clots or burst vessels in the brain, strokes cause seizures and are a medical emergency.

People with poor oral health have increased rates of heart attack and stroke, among other cardiac issues. While oral problems may not directly cause cardiac conditions, they may contribute to problems with the heart and are related. More research is needed, though, to understand why there is this connection.

Endocarditis

Poor oral hygiene is also a risk factor for endocarditis , an infection of the tissues of the heart. Bacteria in the mouth due to the gum diseases gingivitis and periodontitis can enter the bloodstream and cause a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the endocardium (the tissues in the inner lining of the heart’s chambers and valves).

Pregnancy and Birth Complications

Complications during pregnancy and birth can also arise due to poor oral hygiene and health. Additionally, being pregnant makes you more likely to develop gingivitis, periodontitis, loose teeth, or tooth decay due to hormone fluctuations. Problems in the mouth have been linked to a range of such issues, including:

  • Premature birth
  • Low birth weight
  • Preeclampsia
  • Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (also known as trench mouth )
  • Tumors on the gum tissue of the mother (epulis gravidarum)

Pneumonia is a lung infection that ranges in severity and can become life-threatening.

A 2020 study of pneumonia patients in South Korea found missing teeth, having cavities, and poor oral hygiene to be closely linked to this condition. This is because bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and infect the lungs, leading to symptoms of pneumonia.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Though the exact nature of the relationship is unknown, associations have also been found between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This autoimmune disease damages the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Certain bacteria in the mouth, especially Porphyromonas gingivalis , have been found in arthritic joints, indicating an association.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Studies have linked gingivitis and Alzheimer’s disease , a progressive form of dementia that causes a degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. Researchers have found that the Porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria can travel from the gums to the brain, where they emit enzymes that damage neurons.

Alzheimer’s and Dental Care

People with Alzheimer's disease may need assistance taking care of their teeth. Caregivers or family members may need to help people with Alzheimer's brush and floss regularly.  

What Conditions Can Worsen Oral Health?

Not only can oral health conditions like gingivitis and tooth decay lead to or worsen other health issues, oral health is also affected by other diseases. This is especially the case with chronic and long-term conditions. Here’s a quick breakdown of health problems that can affect your mouth.

Diabetes arises when there are problems converting sugars ( glucose ) into energy, leading to very high blood sugar levels. There are several different types of diabetes, of which type 2 diabetes is the most common.

Diabetes causes excessive urination, sudden weight loss, fatigue, and other symptoms and is associated with periodontal disease. Gum disease can cause tooth loss and other problems.

Living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which can lead to AIDS, can significantly impact oral health. With HIV, a range of oral and dental issues can arise, including:

  • Periodontitis
  • Canker sores
  • Oral candidiasis (a fungal infection of the mouth)

Immune Health and Dental Health

People with HIV are more vulnerable to dental and oral problems because the virus attacks and weakens the immune system. As a result, it’s tougher for the body to fight off bacteria in the mouth.   

Osteoporosis

A disease that affects bone health and density, osteoporosis is another condition that can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums. The bone loss associated with this disease can affect the jawbone, causing teeth to loosen or fall out. Weakened bones in the jaw can also cause problems with dental appliances like bridges and dentures .

Osteoporosis is also associated with periodontitis. Though the exact connection isn’t clear, the weakening of the underlying bone may make the gums and teeth more susceptible to bacterial infection.

How to Maintain Oral Health

Good oral hygiene includes the following:

  • Brush properly : An electric toothbrush is preferred. If using a manual toothbrush, use small, circular motions. No matter which toothbrush you use, brush for two to three minutes at a time, twice a day.
  • Floss : Brushing alone is unable to get into the spaces in between the teeth, floss at least once a day.
  • Incorporate fluoride : Fluoride in drinking water (the water you drink from the tap) or toothpaste helps strengthen tooth enamel .
  • Get regular care : Make sure to visit a dentist for routine checkups and cleanings two times per year.
  • Reduce alcohol and tobacco use : Smoking and using alcohol and chewing tobacco can damage your teeth and gums.
  • Be aware of medications : Dry mouth is a common side effect of medications, and it can lead to dental problems.

Dental issues, especially tooth loss and gum disease, have been linked to heart disease, endocarditis, and complications during pregnancy and birth, among other conditions. Furthermore, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and osteoporosis can worsen oral health. Practicing good oral hygiene and getting regular dental checkups are important for maintaining your overall health.   

A Word From Verywell

There’s a close relationship between the health of your teeth and that of the rest of your body. Developing good dental hygiene habits and keeping up with dental appointments are part of broader self-care practices. If you’re concerned about your teeth or are due for a checkup, be sure to call your dentist. 

Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Oral health: healthy people 2020 .

Batty G, Jung K, Mok Y et al. Oral health and later coronary heart disease: cohort study of one million people . Eur J Prev Cardiol . 2018;25(6):598-605. doi:10.1177/2047487318759112

Harvard Health. Gum disease and the connection to heart disease .

Bumm C, Folwaczny M. Infective endocarditis and oral health: A narrative review . Cardiovasc Diagn Ther . 2021;11(6):1403-1415. doi:10.21037/cdt-20-908

Yenen Z, Ataçağ T. Oral care in pregnancy . J Tur Ger Gynecol Assoc . 2019;20(4):264-268. doi:10.4274/jtgga.galenos.2018.2018.0139

Son M, Jo S, Lee J, Lee D. Association between oral health and incidence of pneumonia: a population-based cohort study from Korea . Sci Rep . 2020;10(1). doi:10.1038/s41598-020-66312-2

Kriauciunas A, Gleiznys A, Gleiznys D, Janužis G. The influence of Porphyromonas gingivalis bacterium causing periodontal disease on the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis: Systematic review of literature . Cureus . 2019;11(5):e4775. doi:10.7759/cureus.4775

Beydoun M, Beydoun H, Hossain S, El-Hajj Z, Weiss J, Zonderman A. Clinical and bacterial markers of periodontitis and their association with incident all-cause and Alzheimer’s disease dementia in a large national survey . J Alzheimer's Dis . 2020;75(1):157-172. doi:10.3233/jad-200064

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Diabetes and oral health .

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. HIV/AIDS & oral health .

National Institutes of Health. Oral health and bone disease . NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center.

Centers for Disease Control. Oral health tips . 

Centers for Disease Control. Oral health tips .

National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Diabetes & oral health .

By Mark Gurarie Gurarie is a freelance writer and editor. He is a writing composition adjunct lecturer at George Washington University.  

Home — Essay Samples — Government & Politics — Health Care Reform — The Importance of Dental Hygiene and My Personal Experience

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The Importance of Dental Hygiene and My Personal Experience

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Published: Mar 8, 2024

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How to Write a Dental Hygiene Personal Statement Essay

Table of Contents

A dental hygiene personal statement essay is a lengthy, well-researched work detailing the candidate’s desired experiences, talents, and goals.

The essay helps the admissions committee evaluate your education, employment experience, and character before making a decision.

When applying to dental hygiene or dental therapy programs, the personal statement can make or break your chances of being accepted. This article explains how to write a compelling personal statement and gives an essay for your inspiration.

What is a Dental Hygiene Personal Statement Essay?

A personal statement essay for dental hygiene shows your background and other parts of your life that have influenced your career choice .

It includes information about your formal training, professional experience, volunteer work, extracurricular pursuits, interests, and aspirations.

To succeed in writing your statement for dental hygiene, it is crucial to be truthful. Whenever you find yourself at a loss for words, try posing the following queries:

  • Why do I want to get a degree in dental hygiene?
  • How will this change my life when I graduate from dental hygiene school?
  • Why pick dental hygiene over others?

10 Guidelines for writing a Compelling Dental Hygiene Personal Statement

These steps are meant to assist in shaping your statement to be convincing. Use it as a guideline to write an effective personal statement.

woman with silver and yellow hoop earrings

1. Pique their Curiosity

The purpose of the personal statement is to pique the curiosity of the admissions’ committee. You’re hoping that a meeting with them will result in an interview. Show them rather than tell them who you are.

Share some personal tales that show your optimism, attention to detail, confidence, empathy, manual dexterity, and communication abilities.

2. Write Early and Often

Your statement will be stronger if you begin working on it early. You must give yourself enough time to think through what you want to include and how you want to organize the content. You should write as many drafts as possible to create a framework for the final draft.

Get going at least six months before the target date. Your writing abilities will determine your statement preparation time. You must sit down and devote time to brainstorming, outlining, and drafting.

3. Think It Through and Make a Plan

Where do I even begin? Start by considering what you want to say in your statement of purpose. In your resume, highlight the experiences that best illustrate who you are and why you want to work in this field. Choose an interesting first sentence that intrigues the reader and makes them want to learn more about you.

To get the creative juices flowing, here is a quick reference guide:

  • Remember to jot down significant milestones and life lessons that helped shape your route to a dental career.
  • Write out your best qualities and the things that inspire you.
  • Reflect on the significant individuals in your life and how they have influenced you.
  • Besides school, what other interests or experiences have helped shape your decision to become a dentist?
  • For a career in dental hygiene and therapy, what attributes in yourself make you a strong candidate?

4. Proofread Your Work

Be sure to run a spell and grammar check. Grammatical errors must be avoided at all costs.

Avoid using the future tense too often, and ensure the past tense is used consistently. Use formal language and avoid “I’m” and “don’t.”

5. Ensure its Well-Structured

Your statement must paint a vivid picture of your passions and skills. Avoid employing a plethora of different subjects in your statement. This is because it can make it harder to understand who you are.

Take care to ensure that your paragraphs logically lead into one another. It’s challenging to convey your unique personality when limited to a few characters but do your best.

6. Prove it with Examples

Instead of saying it, prove it. Remember that you will be required to provide evidence for all the claims you make in your statement.

Don’t just write, “I’m fantastic with people and always try to make them happy.” Instead, “During my volunteer work, I realized how much I enjoy interacting with others. My communication skills will assist me in future patient interactions.”

7. Tell the Truth

Try to tell the truth. The best policy is honesty, so keep that in mind. Do not, under any circumstances, plagiarize a personal statement, whether it be from the Internet or a friend. Every school has a method to verify that your statement has not been plagiarized.

8. Show Passion

Have a positive attitude toward regular dental care and any necessary dental treatment. Dental schools across the country are looking for eager and committed students.

You should demonstrate that you have used your time and initiative to prepare for university by accumulating as much relevant experience as possible. It shows that you’re willing to take the initiative, which is what will set you apart.

9. Strive to Be Distinct

Be noticeable. Discuss your accomplishments and how they set you apart from other applicants. If you want to study dental hygiene and treatment, discuss how your volunteer or part-time work has prepared you.

Universities care more about your personality than your dental credentials. They want to hire people who will do whatever it takes to get noticed. So, don’t be afraid to discuss your accomplishments and share your pride. It’s fine to bring up dental-related things, but don’t limit yourself there.

10. Have Your Personal Statement Reviewed

It’s a good idea to have someone else read over your statement. Having someone else look over your work, whether a friend, parent, or teacher, might help you see things from a new angle.

It would be beneficial to reach out to someone presently enrolled in a Dental Hygiene school and have them provide feedback.

Dental Hygiene Personal Statement Essay

This INK essay shows how to write a compelling dental hygiene personal statement. Use this essay to help you determine your unique selling points!

I have always been passionate about dental hygiene ever since I was a child. Growing up with cavities and bad oral health made me understand the importance of proper care. This has driven my commitment to promote preventative strategies to help others maintain healthy teeth and gums.

My personal experience has instilled in me an empathic approach to dentistry, allowing me to better connect with patients on a human level.

I am highly knowledgeable when it comes to dental knowledge and can easily converse with both patients and colleagues alike. In addition, I possess an acute attention to detail which helps ensure that all procedures are carried out safely and correctly.

Furthermore, I can keep abreast of new advancements in the field by utilizing advanced technologies such as digital x-rays or intraoral cameras.

My expertise, empathy, and enthusiasm will prove invaluable to any prospective employer. I would be delighted to join your team of skilled professionals to develop my skills further and contribute to improving the quality of life.

A dental hygiene personal statement essay is a compelling statement of your strengths and interests . Keep it concise and clear without missing a detail.

How to Write a Dental Hygiene Personal Statement Essay

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Take advantage of the full Pacific experience by enrolling as a first-year dental hygiene major, or apply for the program as a transfer from another college or university.

Pacific has created a distinctive accelerated Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene for highly qualified students. In addition to clinical practice, the baccalaureate hygiene degree allows entry into many positions in teaching, research, administration, public health, private industry and other areas of hygiene practice, as well as application for entry into advanced degree programs.

First-year admission to the Dental Hygiene program is competitive and based on merit. A student may apply as a first-year student in a Dental Hygiene major, completing the prerequisite coursework listed below at Pacific. A high school GPA of at least 3.0 is required, as well as courses in biology, chemistry and other college-preparatory classes.

hygienist

The first four semesters of this year-round program focus on general education courses providing a strong science background and a broad base in the humanities. Professional training takes place in the remaining four semesters. The curriculum provides students with knowledge of oral health and disease as a basis for assuming responsibility to assess, plan, implement and evaluate dental hygiene services for both the individual patient and community oral health programs. A foundation in basic and dental sciences is further enhanced with advanced courses in pharmacology, medical and dental emergencies, community oral health, ethics and jurisprudence.

Clinical location

The clinical portion of the Dental Hygiene program takes place at Pacific's  San Francisco campus , home to other  dental programs offered at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry . This provides increased connection to the school's San Francisco-based dental clinics and programs; enhanced intraprofessional opportunities in the field of oral healthcare; opportunities for dental hygiene students to learn alongside dental students in the DDS, IDS and residency programs; and a large base of patients who utilize the school's clinics. The San Francisco campus is a state-of-the-art facility located in the South of Market (SoMa) district and is highly accessible by all major forms of public transportation, including BART/Muni.

  • Educates individuals who, upon completion of the program, will be professionally competent to provide quality dental hygiene care in an evolving profession
  • Provides patient-centered, quality care in an efficient clinical model that demonstrates the highest standards of service achievable
  • Ensures opportunities for community-based, experiential learning
  • Strives for continuous enhancement through professional development
  • Promotes humanistic values that respect the dignity of each individual and foster the potential for growth in all of us
  • Applies theory and data for continuous improvement
  • Leads in addressing the challenges facing the profession of dental hygiene, including dental education and affordable dental care

Dental Hygiene pinning ceremony

Degree Offered

First-year student admission.

The application deadline for the Dental Hygiene major is Jan. 15, with a decision notification of March 31. 

Transfer student admission

The application period opens May 1, with a deadline of Aug. 15. Learn more about transferring to Pacific at the link below.

Tuition & Financial Aid

For information about tuition and cost, please visit the Financial Aid & Cost link below.

WREB

University of the Pacific's Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry has long been recognized for the quality of its facilities, faculty, humanistic teaching approach, patient services and community interaction. It will bring these strengths and more to this new program. Our students note that faculty treat them as peers starting on the first day of school. University of the Pacific places great emphasis on self-confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, the collaborative, non-competitive relationships among current students is considered a great asset.

A career in dental hygiene offers multiple opportunities in a variety of settings. About 70% of dental hygienists practice in private dental offices. Providing direct clinical care, the hygienist plays an integral role on the dental team assisting patients to achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Alternatively, hygienists may choose dental hygiene careers in public health, research, management, special needs patient care, teaching and administration. 

Dental hygiene is a rapidly growing profession. The U.S. Department of Labor advises that dental hygiene is projected to be one of the 30 fastest-growing occupations. Population growth and greater retention of natural teeth will stimulate demand for dental hygienists. Additionally, the local San Joaquin/Central Valley-area job market is very favorable for dental hygienists.

Requirements

To advance to the upper-division major coursework at the Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, students must complete their prerequisite coursework with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Coursework must be completed with a grade of C or higher to advance to the upper-division classes.

In addition to the successful completion of the prerequisite coursework, students are required to have 2 letters of recommendation of their choosing, and have completed a minimum of 20 hours of shadowing with a dental hygienist.

Dental Hygiene majors who began our program as freshmen at the Stockton campus and who earn a GPA of 3.0 or above will apply to the upper-division dental hygiene courses. Since matriculation is not automatic, they will be guaranteed an interview, but not guaranteed admission.

General Education Curriculum

Presented in the first half of this three-year, year-round program are general education courses providing a strong science background and a broad base in the humanities. There is a required course of study during these three semesters and summer session intended to provide the prerequisite background in biology, chemistry, psychology, sociology, English and mathematics needed for dental hygiene science and clinical practice. Students will undertake this portion of their coursework, which is provided by the College of the Pacific, with the general undergraduate student population on the main campus. If you are a transfer student, the course presented in this first half of the programs are the courses for which you will need to have transfer equivalences. 

Core 1 3 units General Education

Core 2 4 units General Education

Psychology 31: Intro to Psychology 4 units General Education Social Inquiry fulfilled

Sociology 51: Intro to Sociology 4 units General Education Civic & Global responsibilities & Diversity fulfilled

Biology 61: Principles of Biology  5 units General Education Scientific Inquiry fulfilled

Chemistry 25: General Chemistry 5 units

Chemistry 27: General Chemistry 5 units

General Education: World Perspectives & Ethics  4 units

General Education: Artistic Process & Creation

Mathematics 35: Statistics and Probability 3 units General Education Quantitative Reasoning fulfilled

Communications 27: Public Speaking 3 units

General Education Language & Narratives

Biology 170: Human Anatomy 5 units

Biology 180: Human Physiology 5 units

Biology 145: Microbiology  5 units

Total Units = 59

Dental Hygiene Curriculum

Professional training is undertaken in the second half of the program for four semesters. The curriculum provides students with knowledge of oral health and disease as a basis for assuming responsibility to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate dental hygiene services for both the individual patient and community oral health programs. Dental hygienists learn to develop patient counseling programs to encourage health promotion and disease prevention, and provide prescribed clinical patient care for patients of all ages, including those with special needs (medically compromised, mentally or physically challenged, and socially disadvantaged). Introductory courses include head and neck anatomy, dental radiology, oral health education, nutrition and biomaterials.

This foundation in basic and dental sciences is further enhanced with advanced courses in pharmacology, medical and dental emergencies, community oral health, ethics and jurisprudence. This portion of the program will be provided through the School of Dentistry in the dental hygiene facility on the main campus.

First Semester (15 units)

  • Head and Neck Anatomy (2 units)
  • Dental Anatomy (2 unit)
  • Dental Radiology (2 units)
  • Histology/Embryology (2 units)
  • Dental Hygiene Practice (3 units)
  • Pre-Clinical Dental Hygiene (3 units)
  • Oral Health Education (1 units)

Second Semester (18 units)

  • Medical and Dental Emergencies (1 unit)
  • Dental Hygiene Clinic I (5 units)
  • Dental Hygiene Clinic I- Lecture (2 units)
  • Pathology (3 units)
  • Periodontics I (2 units)
  • Pain Management/Local Anesthesia (2 units)
  • Pharmacology (3 units)

Third Semester (18 units)

  • Dental Hygiene Clinic II (7 units)
  • Dental Hygiene Clinic II- Lecture (2 units)
  • Biochemistry and Nutrition (2 units)
  • Community Oral Health (4 units)
  • Patient Management/Special Needs (2units)

Fourth Semester (18 units)

  • Dental Hygiene Clinic III (7 units)
  • Dental Hygiene Clinic III-Lecture (2 units)
  • Periodontics II (2 units)
  • Dental Materials (2 units)
  • Ethics and Jurisprudence (2 units)

Total Units = 69

Through emphasis on the integration of general education, biomedical science, dental science, dental hygiene science and clinical practice components, students are taught to problem solve, interact with the dentist and the dental team, and treat a wide variety of patients. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to provide quality dental care to the public and to supplement and adapt their knowledge and skills throughout their professional lives.

Financial Information

To accommodate the accelerated nature of the program (a three-year bachelor’s degree), students must take classes three semesters per year (rather than the typical two semesters per year schedule) in the first two years of the program. This means that students should add 50% to the charges for tuition and housing/food when looking at the normal yearly charges (that are based on a two-semester school year). Increased annual cost is balanced by the three-year vs. traditional four-year program design.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what information do i need to submit by the application deadline.

Required submissions include an application form, essay, transcripts, standardized test scores and letters of recommendation.

2. If I apply as a transfer student, what are the recommended prerequisite general education course equivalents at my college?

Course equivalents for many colleges can be found on the Dental Hygiene Transfer Admission page.

3. Do I need to have all prerequisite courses completed at the time of application?

You may have coursework in progress at the time of application. All prerequisite coursework must be complete prior to entry into the professional portion of the program. Transcripts confirming completion must be filed with the Office of Admission.

4. May I utilize advance placement credits for prerequisite coursework?

The University has a protocol for utilization of advanced placement credits, which the Office of Admission will be happy to review with applicants. E-mail  [email protected]  or call 209.946-2211.

5. If I am a graduate of a dental assisting program, will I need to take all courses in the professional portion of the program?

Yes. Vocational units from a dental assisting program are not applicable for advance placement in the professional portion of the program. Skill proficiency may, however, make coursework easier in given subjects.

6. What is the application process if my prerequisite coursework was completed in a foreign country?

Upon application, the Office of Admission will research your course equivalents and advise you of any additional prerequisite coursework that might be necessary prior to application. We recommend application at the earliest possible date, as researching equivalents may be time intensive.

7. If I am a practicing dentist from another country, can I apply to the Dental Hygiene program?

You are eligible to apply to Pacific’s Dental Hygiene program if the prerequisites are met. You might also be interested in applying to the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry’s International Dental Studies program , a two-year program that provides qualified graduates of foreign dental programs the opportunity to earn the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. For more information, please call 415.929.6688.

The application deadline for transfer students is Aug. 15 for the following January.

The Dental Hygiene program does not offer advanced standing in the professional portion of the program. Foreign dental school graduates must attend all dental hygiene classes in preparation for National and State Dental Hygiene Board examination.

8. What if a student isn’t accepted into the Dental Hygiene program, but wishes to enter Pacific under another major with the intent to change majors (into hygiene) in future?

Students are welcome to apply for admission to the University at large with the understanding that application for transfer into the professional portion of the hygiene program is on a competitive basis. An applicant who is a current student of the University of the Pacific will be guaranteed an interview for transfer admission into the program; however, they will not be guaranteed admission into the professional portion of the Dental Hygiene program based solely on doing prerequisite work at Pacific.

9. If accepted, can I take Dental Hygiene coursework on a part-time basis?

The coursework schedule, once accepted into professional portion of the program, must be completed in four sequential semesters of full-time coursework. The course schedule is anticipated to run from approximately 8 or 9 a.m. through 4 or 5 p.m. daily.

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Courses listed are required for completion of the degree.

Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Curriculum

Required courses.

  • AMED 502 Emergency Medicine Units: 2
  • AMED 524 Pain and Anxiety Control Units: 2
  • ANAT 521 Head and Neck Anatomy Units: 2
  • DBIO 310 Oral Biochemistry Units: 2
  • DHIS 310 Basic Tissues and Histology and Embryology Units: 2
  • DHYG 311a Fundamentals of Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice Units: 3
  • DHYG 311b Fundamentals of Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice Units: 3
  • DHYG 314L Dental Morphology Laboratory Units: 1
  • DHYG 316 Patient Education in Preventive Dental Care Units: 1
  • DHYG 318 Dental Specialties Units: 2
  • DHYG 320 Preventive Dental Therapy Units: 2
  • DHYG 401 Introduction to Advanced Dental Hygiene Units: 2
  • DHYG 410a Clinic: Dental Hygiene Units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 each
  • DHYG 410b Clinic: Dental Hygiene Units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 each
  • DHYG 410c Clinic: Dental Hygiene Units: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 each
  • DHYG 412 Preventive Dental Care Programs Units: 1
  • DHYG 414a Advanced Dental Hygiene Units: 2
  • DHYG 414b Advanced Dental Hygiene Units: 2
  • DHYG 422 Essentials of Dental Hygiene Practice Units: 1
  • DHYG 424 Research Methods Units: 2
  • DHYG 516a Community Oral Health Units: 2
  • DHYG 516b Community Oral Health Units: 2
  • DIAG 415 Radiographic Techniques Units: 1
  • DIAG 521 Principles of Oral Radiology Units: 2
  • DMAT 316L Dental Materials and Clinical Procedures Units: 2
  • DPHR 410 Principles of Pharmacology Units: 2
  • GSPD 504 Dental Treatment of the Geriatric and Special Patient Units: 2
  • HBHV 310 Interactional Skills in Dental Hygiene Units: 1
  • MBIO 310 Principles of Microbiology and Immunology Units: 2
  • OCCL 310 Fundamentals of Dental Morphology Units: 1
  • OMOD 506 Infection Control Units: 1
  • PEDO 310 Principles of Dentistry for Children Units: 1
  • PERI 310a Introduction to Periodontal Diseases Units: 1
  • PERI 310b Introduction to Periodontal Diseases Units: 1
  • PERI 415 Basic Periodontal Therapy Units: 1
  • PERI 504 Advanced Periodontics Units: 1
  • PTHL 312a Medicine and Pathology Units: 1
  • PTHL 312b Medicine and Pathology Units: 3
  • PTHL 312c Medicine and Pathology Units: 2
  • Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
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  • Medical Administrative Assistant
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  • Physical Therapy Technology
  • Respiratory Care (Respiratory Therapist)
  • Surgical Technology
  • Associate Degree in Nursing
  • Nursing Bridge / LVN to ADN
  • Practical Nursing / Vocational Nursing
  • Dental Assisting

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Carrington's Dental Hygiene Hero

Program Details

Education is a major investment, but it’s an investment in your future. Every student comes to Carrington with unique financial needs. Carrington College is committed to helping you achieve your education goals. We participate in most financial assistance programs, both federal and state, as well as private financing. Each program has different requirements and application instructions. Student loans, grants, and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

For complete information on current tuition costs, please see page 236 of the Academic Catalog .

The best way for us to understand your financial needs is to meet in person. Call (877) 344-3316 to set an appointment with our Student Finance Department so we can help you develop your personalized financial plan to achieve your educational goals.

Carrington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, 428 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814; 415 506 0234 an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Additional information about accreditation, including the filing of complaints against member institutions, can be found at  www.accjc.org/ .

For comprehensive information on Carrington’s accreditation and approvals, visit  carrington.edu/accreditation .

The Dental Hygiene programs at the Boise, Mesa, Sacramento, and San Jose campuses are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission on Dental Accreditation is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 800 232 6108 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678.

The Commission’s web address is:  ada.org/en/coda .

REAL WORLD SKILLS

Start your path, flexible learning options, affordable tuition, discover what it’s like to train to become a dental hygienist at carrington college..

2021 STUDENT DENTAL HYGIENE

Career Opportunities

What is a dental hygienist? When people head in for a dental exam, the first person they meet with is typically the dental hygienist. A dental hygienist prepares patients to be examined by a dentist. Dental hygienists perform duties including: 1

  • Document and update patient dental health records and treatments
  • Perform dental X-rays
  • Clean teeth with dental instruments to remove plaque, stains, and tartar
  • Apply sealants
  • Provide fluoride treatment
  • Teach patients how to properly take care of teeth, including brushing and flossing recommendations and optimal dental tools to use at home

As dental hygienists clean teeth, they may identify cavities or gum issues to alert the dentist about. They’re on the lookout for oral diseases like gingivitis and talk with patients about their oral healthcare routines.

dental hygiene essay introduction

What Will I Learn?

Preventative dentistry, head and neck anatomy, oral biology, general and oral pathology, check out our guide on becoming a dental hygienist..

Dental hygienists help people maintain a vital part of well-being: their oral health, which Mayo Clinic states are a direct link to overall health.2 Dental hygienists work in teams with dentists to provide dental patient treatment. They help people learn how to take better care of their teeth, gums, and mouths.1

Dental Hygiene FAQ

How long does it take to become a dental hygienist.

While everyone’s education is different and time to complete a program can vary based on a number of personal factors, Carrington’s Dental Hygiene program can be completed in less than 2 years.

How much does dental hygiene school cost?

Dental Hygiene program costs can vary depending on location, courseload, and financial aid. For complete information on current program costs, please see the Academic Catalog .

What is the difference between a dental assistant and a dental hygienist?

Dental assistants and dental hygienists both play important roles in dental offices. Dental hygienists spend a large portion of their time working with patients’ teeth. A dental assistant works under the supervision of a dentist and may handle more administrative tasks.1

What does a dental hygienist do?

Dental hygienists are licensed dental health specialists who provide preventive, educational, and therapeutic services for the promotion of oral health and control of the oral disease. They observe and record abnormalities and problems in patients’ mouths, take oral X-rays, and apply fluoride and fissure sealants. Other tasks include providing periodontal therapies like root planning and removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from teeth 1 . Utilizing the Dental Hygiene (DH) process of care, students will learn to devise and deliver patients with personalized oral care.

*The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.

  • www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm#tab-3
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JSmol Viewer

Results of a pilot trial assessing the effects of proper oral hygiene and a probiotic dietary supplement on oral health in volunteers with oral malodor.

dental hygiene essay introduction

1. Introduction

2. materials and methods, 2.1. participants and inclusion/exclusion criteria.

  • Individuals that were 18–55 years old;
  • Individuals with a persistent malodor (≥3 months);
  • Individuals with organoleptic scores 2–5.
  • Individuals who were less than 18 years of age or over 55 years of age at enrollment;
  • Individuals who had minor persistent malodor scores (scores 0–1);
  • Individuals who had dentures;
  • Individuals who reported a professional dental cleaning within 1 month of randomization;
  • Individuals who reported any gastrointestinal (Reflux esophagitis, gastritis, ulcer, hiatal hernia, Zencker diverticulum, achalasia) and ENT disorders (pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, bronchiectasis);
  • Female individuals who reported being pregnant or intending to become pregnant in the next two months;
  • Individuals who reported the use of immunosuppressive therapy;
  • Individuals who reported immune deficiencies.

2.2. Study Design

2.2.1. office visits activities, 2.2.2. at-home malodor measurements, 2.3. probiotic and placebo lozenges, 2.4. outcomes.

  • The intensity of oral odor based on the mean organoleptic scores at six interdental positions ( Figure 1 );
  • The tongue coating scores measured at 6 different locations ( Figure 2 ).
  • Salivary inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokine levels;
  • The DNA levels of the probiotic strains in the tongue coatings by Quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis;
  • Salivary pH.

2.5. Probiotic DNA Levels Analysis

  • L. plantarum KABP051 forward 5′-AGGGTTGGACGAGACAA-3′;
  • L. plantarum KABP051 reverse 5′-CCAAACTCATCGGACCTATTC-3′;
  • L. brevis KABP052 forward 5′-TTAGCGTCGTTAGTTGTTATAGG-3′;
  • L. brevis KABP052 reverse 5′-ACGTTCTTGGTCATCGTAATC-3′;
  • P. acidilactici KABP053 forward 5′-AGCTACAGCTACCCAATCT-3′;
  • P. acidilactici KABP053 reverse 5′-GTCGGTTGTGTCCATTAAGT-3′.
  • Forward Primer BACT1369F CGGTGAATACGTTCYCGG;
  • Reverse Primer PROK1492R GGWTACCTTGTTACGACTT.

2.6. Salivary Cytokines

2.7. salivary ph, 2.8. statistical analysis, 2.8.1. summary statistics, 2.8.2. malodor, tongue coating, and cytokine concentration analysis, 2.8.3. pcr data analysis, 3.1. general characteristics of participants, 3.2. effect of proper dental hygiene and probiotic use on malodor, 3.3. effect of proper dental hygiene and probiotic use on tongue coating, 3.4. effect of proper dental hygiene and probiotic use on salivary ph, 3.5. effect of proper dental hygiene and probiotic use on the probiotics’ dna levels in the tongue coating, 3.6. effect of proper dental hygiene and probiotic use on salivary cytokines, 4. discussion, 5. conclusions, author contributions, institutional review board statement, informed consent statement, data availability statement, acknowledgments, conflicts of interest.

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Click here to enlarge figure

AnalyteCopies of DNA per μL of the Extracted Sample
L. plantarumX = 10^((CT-42.994)/−2.7788)
L. brevisX = 10^((CT-40.775)/−1.7513)
P. acidilacticiX = 10^((CT-48.583)/−3.91)
16SX = 10^((CT-38.939)/−2.4257)
Placebo Cohort, n = 13Probiotic Cohort, n = 18Total Number of Participants (%)
n = 31
(%)
White-Non-Hispanic9 (69%)9 (50%)18 (58%)
Asian4 (31%)4 (22%)8 (26%)
White-Hispanic0 (0%)4 (22%)4 (13%)
Black, Non-Hispanic0 (0%)1 (6%)1 (3%)
(%)
Female7 (54%)11 (61%)16 (52%)
Male6 (46%)7 (39%)13 (48%)
Mean + SD28.1 + 3.527.3 + 4.9N/A *
Placebo Cohort, n = 13Probiotic Cohort, n = 18
Mean + SE0.75 + 0.090.72 + 0.12
Mean + SE0.39 + 0.120.40 + 0.09
Mean + SE0.42 + 0.130.59 + 0.08
Placebo Cohort, n = 13Probiotic Cohort, n = 18
Mean + SE6.83 + 0.076.76 + 0.08
Mean + SE6.75 + 0.066.81 + 0.06
Mean + SE6.73 +0.066.66 + 0.06
CohortsL. plantarumL. brevisP. acidilactici
Placebo, n = 13529
Probiotics, n = 187312
Placebo Cohort, n = 13Probiotic Cohort, n = 18p Value
Baseline
Mean + SE197,482 + 195,685999 + 6811
30 days intervention
Mean + SE240 + 257 *10,681 + 7883 0.047
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE5081 + 3775 *412 + 393 0.466
Baseline
Mean + SE7 + 4737 + 7091
30 days intervention
Mean + SE14 + 9 *26,708 + 26,335 0.304
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE77,301 + 77,300 *125 + 90 0.079
Baseline
Mean + SE839,724 + 795,780141,452 + 125,5361
30 days intervention
Mean + SE2933 + 2917 *36,180 + 288,769 0.584
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE807,375 + 470,904 *21,348 + 20,908 0.823
CytokinesPlacebo Cohort, n = 13Probiotic Cohort,
n = 18
p Values
Baseline
Mean + SE, pg/mL298.35 + 93.37371.69 + 115.810.564
30 days intervention
Mean + SE, pg/mL248.17 + 52.84 *320.06 + 88.23 *0.554
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE, pg/mL159.80 + 43.09 *271.75 + 79.69 *0.1044
Baseline
Mean + SE, pg/mL1371.30 + 308.072295.15 + 386.260.081
30 days intervention
Mean + SE, pg/mL1531.58 + 238.46 *2103.40 + 378.26 *0.671
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE, pg/mL1253.64 + 287.87 *1602.88 + 421.08 *0.755
Baseline
Mean + SE, pg/mL5.15 + 1.1710.88 + 7.850.086
30 days intervention
Mean + SE, pg/mL6.11 + 1.18 *11.66 + 2.87 *0.6884
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE, pg/mL5.21 + 1.04 *7.33 + 1.93 *0.989
Baseline
Mean + SE, pg/mL5.46 + 0.7932.34 + 21.820.271
30 days intervention
Mean + SE, pg/mL8.05 + 1.93 *39.96 + 27.94 *0.9207
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE, pg/mL6.35 + 1.22 *9.07 + 2.59 *0.9726
Baseline
Mean + SE, pg/mL1.61 + 0.562.76 + 0.730.224
30 days intervention
Mean + SE, pg/mL1.40 + 0.19 *3.16 + 0.84 *0.772
30 days follow-up
Mean + SE, pg/mL1.50 + 0.49 *2.02 + 0.62 *0.863
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Share and Cite

Enioutina, E.Y.; Keddington, R.J.; Hauck, K.G.; Chavez, A.; Clifford, J.J.; Cao, T.; Smith, B.; Job, K.M.; Balch, A. Results of a Pilot Trial Assessing the Effects of Proper Oral Hygiene and a Probiotic Dietary Supplement on Oral Health in Volunteers with Oral Malodor. Microorganisms 2024 , 12 , 1821. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12091821

Enioutina EY, Keddington RJ, Hauck KG, Chavez A, Clifford JJ, Cao T, Smith B, Job KM, Balch A. Results of a Pilot Trial Assessing the Effects of Proper Oral Hygiene and a Probiotic Dietary Supplement on Oral Health in Volunteers with Oral Malodor. Microorganisms . 2024; 12(9):1821. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12091821

Enioutina, Elena Y., R. James Keddington, Kurtis G. Hauck, Amarina Chavez, Jeffrey J. Clifford, Thy (April) Cao, Bryce Smith, Kathleen M. Job, and Alfred Balch. 2024. "Results of a Pilot Trial Assessing the Effects of Proper Oral Hygiene and a Probiotic Dietary Supplement on Oral Health in Volunteers with Oral Malodor" Microorganisms 12, no. 9: 1821. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12091821

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Applying to Dental Hygienist Program Application Essay

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My decision to become a dental hygienist dates back to my high-school days. Nevertheless, my initial interest in dental hygiene was sparked by an incident that I witnessed, when a close relative required cosmetic dentistry due to poor oral-hygiene practices. I have limited knowledge on the subject of dental hygiene but I am quite aware of the difference that this information can bring to people’s lives (Anderson & Smith, 2009). Pursuing a course in dental hygiene at the West Coast University would help me realize my personal and career goals. To familiarize me with the specifics in the field of dental hygiene, I spent time with two professional dental hygienists. My experience with the dental hygienists involved observing them as they carried out routine activities that involved clients from diverse backgrounds. This paper is a response to the observations that I made during my visits to two dental hygienists Sergio Rodriguez and Abraham.

My first visit was to Sergio Rodriguez’s Crossroads Dental Group and Orthodontics, which is located in Upland California. Rodriguez has been a dental hygienist (DH) for over five years and he has enjoyed his work and all it brought including its financial benefits (Rodriguez, 2015, October X). During my visit to Rodriguez’s practice, he had quite a busy day in the office and I witnessed him serving seven clients. Some of the clients that Rodriguez dealt with required standard procedures while others prompted the dental hygienist to think ‘outside the box.

One of the most notable cases that I witnessed during my brief stint with Rodriguez involved a patient who had her gums measured. Before this experience, I had no idea that gums could be measured for any reason. Rodriguez informed me that the procedure that involved measuring gums was known as periodontal probing. Consequently, gums are supposed to measure between 2 and 3 millimeters and not more than that. The hygienist decided that the right course of action was to clean the client’s gums measured between 4 and 6 millimeters. From this patient’s visit, I also learned that part of a dental hygienist’s job was to make sure that the procedures that he/she offered to a patient were as pain-free as possible. I also learned that some of the conditions that dental hygienists might deal with could have direct connections to other serious medical conditions such as diabetes and cancer. When I was in high school, I expected that a DH’s medical repertoire was limited to the field of dentistry. However, during my stay in Rodriguez’s office, I witnessed him utilizing his knowledge in other medical fields and conditions including blood sugar levels, nutrition, and cancer.

My second visit to a DH was to Abraham Castellanos at the Mario Castellanos’ Dental Office in Fontana California. Abraham has been a practicing DH for over two years. He enjoys his job immensely especially when he meets new clients. From my observations, I learned that Abraham was quite passionate about oral health. During my stay at Abraham’s office, I witnessed his interactions with three patients. Most of the patients who visited Abraham required simple procedures. One of the most notable patient interactions at Abraham’s office involves him explaining to a patient that deep cleaning is not something that should be done routinely. Instead, deep cleaning is only necessary when individuals neglect to clean their teeth. Before my visit, I was under the impression that deep cleaning was a routine procedure that all people should undergo albeit periodically. However, Abraham made me realize that people who clean their teeth adequately do not require deep cleaning. In my opinion, if people utilized the advice given out by DHs, the dental health of the entire nation would improve drastically. My opinion was solidified by Abraham when he said that DHs were the “first line of defense against painful and debilitating problems” (Castellanos, 2015, October X). I will always remember how the hygienist explained the importance of his career by noting that the mouth was the gateway to harmful infections that might travel to the rest of the body.

My visits to these two DHs made me realize that my passion for dental hygiene has a social bearing. When patients walked in for consultations with the DHs, they were under distress because they realized that they were close to the dreaded dentist’s encounter. However, when the DHs helped them and gave them reassuring advice the patients felt relieved. I was only an observer but I also felt relieved whenever a patient was done with gum cleaning or when an individual realized there was a better way of taking care of his/her dental health. All these experiences aligned with my lifelong goal of helping people by instilling useful knowledge. Furthermore, when I asked the two DHs about the motivation behind their career choices, they all said it was because their job gave them the chance to ‘help people. For the brief moment when I shared their experience, I got a taste of the satisfaction that comes with helping people and it was very fulfilling.

Before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, I tackled a Bachelor of Art in Mass Communication. I intend to combine the expertise that I will gather from these two programs and utilize it in my career as a DH. During my visits to the DHs, I learned that communication is an essential part of their practice. For instance, most of the patients who walked into the DHs’ offices had an air of mistrust around them but this was remedied by good communication on the side of the professionals. My good communication skills can be useful in reassuring patients thereby eliminating most of their fears (Nunn & Purifoy-Seldon, 2011). Furthermore, I learned from Rodriguez that being firm when communicating the dangers of bad oral hygiene is a valuable skill.

My interest in DH was sparked by an incident where one of my relatives deformed her teeth and later required cosmetic dentistry. However, my deep-rooted desire to help others or act as a public liaison officer in matters of dental health is my main motivation when I am seeking admission in your Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Program at West Coast University. I have various skills that will be useful to your institution including my need to improve the knowledge levels of our current society. My preliminary research indicates that my experiences align with the core principles of your program and that is why I am seeking admission to your organization. I look forward to hearing from you shortly.

Anderson, K. L., & Smith, B. S. (2009). Practicing dental hygienists’ perceptions about the bachelor of science in dental hygiene and the oral health practitioner. Journal of dental education , 73 (10), 1222-1232.

Castellanos, A. (2015). Personal interview.

Nunn, P. J., & Purifoy-Seldon, B. (2011). The current status of allied dental faculty: a survey report. Journal of Dental Education , 68 (3), 329-344.

Rodriguez, S. (2015). Personal interview.

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