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How to be successful in dental hygiene school?
I just got accepted into my dream dental hygiene program! I have been a dental assistant for the past five years, and was attending school half-time to complete my prerequisite courses. So I am expecting a drastic schedule change as the program is full-time. Hygienists I've worked with in the past recommended staying on top of the content and leaning on members of my cohort for support. But any specific tips that helped you be successful? Is it possible to work part-time? #Spring26
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Sarah’s Answer
Congratulations getting into hygiene school! I have been in the dental field for almost 20 years now.
You are correct in knowing that your schedule is going to change dramatically, but do NOT let that deter you.
If you went to an accredited Dental Assistant program and are a DAll or CDA/EFDA, you might not have to retake radiology, oral facial anatomy, infection control, or dental materials. If you are office trained or a DAl, then you will need to take these courses in hygiene school.
I have seen some hygiene students work part time, but once clinic starts they focus on being a full time student. You are already ahead of the game since you are a dental assistant.
I have seen a major increase in dentistry with airway, tongue and lip tie, low tongue tone, and Myofunctional therapy. Treating the root cause of narrow palate, mouth breathing, and mid face deficiencies. More and more offices are recognizing that the way our face grows starting in utero, affects more than just our mouth.
Also, being up to date on the latest periodontal therapy options.
Lastly, learn about how taking probiotics can improve oral health and study the benefits of nano hydroxy appetite vs fluoride.
The greatest asset to a dental office is a well educated team!
You are correct in knowing that your schedule is going to change dramatically, but do NOT let that deter you.
If you went to an accredited Dental Assistant program and are a DAll or CDA/EFDA, you might not have to retake radiology, oral facial anatomy, infection control, or dental materials. If you are office trained or a DAl, then you will need to take these courses in hygiene school.
I have seen some hygiene students work part time, but once clinic starts they focus on being a full time student. You are already ahead of the game since you are a dental assistant.
I have seen a major increase in dentistry with airway, tongue and lip tie, low tongue tone, and Myofunctional therapy. Treating the root cause of narrow palate, mouth breathing, and mid face deficiencies. More and more offices are recognizing that the way our face grows starting in utero, affects more than just our mouth.
Also, being up to date on the latest periodontal therapy options.
Lastly, learn about how taking probiotics can improve oral health and study the benefits of nano hydroxy appetite vs fluoride.
The greatest asset to a dental office is a well educated team!
Updated
vagdevi’s Answer
To succeed in dental hygiene school, focus on consistency over intensity—treat it like a full-time job, stay organized, and don’t fall behind. Aim to understand concepts rather than chase perfection, and build strong clinical habits like time management, communication, and attention to detail early on. Take care of your health with good sleep and a basic fitness routine to handle long clinical hours, keep a small supportive peer group, and ask for feedback early so you can improve steadily.
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martha’s Answer
I went through a program where I worked full time as an assistant and part time hygienist while during school. The program I was apart of was only one weekend a month for about a year…very different.
Biggest advice, work hard at the easy things like head and neck anatomy and perio so that when the harder things come you can afford a weaker grade.
Biggest advice, work hard at the easy things like head and neck anatomy and perio so that when the harder things come you can afford a weaker grade.