Entry-Level Track

Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene

Become a Dental Hygienist

What is a registered dental hygienist?

A registered dental hygienist is a preventive oral health professional licensed in dental hygiene who provides preventive, educational, and therapeutic services supporting total health through the promotion of optimal oral health.

As a Dental Hygienist, you will:

1. Educate clients on the link between oral and systemic health
2. Remove hard and soft dental deposits from the teeth
3. Analyze the risk of oral diseases such as dental decay, oral cancer and periodontal disease
4. Collaborate and consult with health care professionals regarding client treatment
5. Expose and evaluate dental radiographs
6. Apply dental sealants and fluoride to strengthen and protect tooth surfaces
7. Educate clients about oral diseases and oral hygiene techniques and products
8. Place interim therapeutic restorations
9. Administer local anesthetic agents and nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia for pain control
10. Counseling on healthy dietary choices and habits

About Our Program

The Dental Hygiene Program at Foothill College was established in 1964 and is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.   The program is well known throughout the community and the state for providing educated and qualified dental hygienists.

Successful completion of the two year program qualifies you to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam and the Regional Board Exams for Licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist. See below table for the pass rates.

Year	National Board Dental Hygiene Exam	Dental Hygiene Licensure Exam
2022	100 %	100 %
2021	100 %	100 %
2020	100 %	100 %
2019	100 %	100 %
2018	100 %	100 %