Dental hygiene students working in clinic

Entry-Level Track

Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene

QUICK VIEW — Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science

Attention: PHT 58 (Fundamentals of Pharmacology) is being offered in-person in Winter and Spring 2025.

Program: Dental Hygiene
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Length: 2 years/Full-time
Start/End: July/June
Number Accepted: 24
Application Timeline: 10/01/2024 - 02/01/2025 
Prerequisites: Yes, see program requirements.   
Approx. Cost of Program: $20,000. See estimated expenses
National Board Exam: Yes
Regional Clinical Licensing Exam: Yes
Est. Annual Salary: $98,000-$125,000 (in CA)

Note: Attending the Dental Assisting Program at Foothill College will earn 4 extra points toward your application? Check out the Dental Assisting Program today!

NoticeBloodborne Pathogen Exposure

Become a Dental Hygienist

What is a registered dental hygienist?

A registered dental hygienist is a licensed preventive oral health professional who promotes overall health by delivering educational, therapeutic, and preventive dental services to support optimal oral health.

As a dental hygienist, your responsibilities include:

    • Educating clients about the connection between oral and systemic health.
    • Removing hard and soft deposits from teeth.
    • Assessing the risk of oral diseases, including dental decay, oral cancer, and periodontal disease.
    • Collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans.
    • Taking and interpreting dental radiographs.
    • Applying dental sealants and fluoride for tooth protection.
    • Providing guidance on oral hygiene techniques and appropriate products.
    • Placing interim therapeutic restorations.
    • Administering local anesthetics and nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia for pain management.
    • Offering dietary counseling to promote healthy habits.

Apply for Entry-Level Track Dental Hygiene Program

Announcement

Recent DH Entry-Level Program Application Info Session on 11/21/24, click here to view the recording.

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Questions?
We're Here to Help!

Truc Nguyen, Dental Administrative Assistant

dentalhygieneclinic@foothill.edu


Career Advancement in Dental Hygiene

Dental hygienists with a Bachelor's degree can pursue many career opportunities.  They can work as a(n)...

  • Clinician
  • Educator
  • Corporate  
  • Public Health
  • Administrator
  • Researcher
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