Dental Hygiene BS at Utah Valley University

Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals who have graduated from an accredited dental hygiene program in an institution of higher education, licensed in dental hygiene to provide educational, clinical, research, administrative and therapeutic services supporting total health through the promotion of optimum oral health. In performing the dental hygiene process of care, the dental hygienist assesses the patient’s oral tissues and overall health determining the presence or absence of disease, other abnormalities and disease risks; develops a dental hygiene diagnosis based on clinical findings; formulates evidence-based, patient-centered treatment care plans; performs the clinical procedures outlined in the treatment care plan; educates patients regarding oral hygiene and preventive oral care; and evaluates the outcomes of educational strategies and clinical procedures provided.

Dental Hygieniests play an integral role in modern dental care.  With an Associate of Science degree in Dental Hygiene, you will become familiar with the proper procedures and equipment for dental cleanings and  more advanced procedures. Our dental hygiene program enjoys a reputation of educational excellence, with  faculty who are recognized at the state, national and international levels. Upon satisfactory completion of the Dental Hygiene program, you will be eligible to take the National Board Examination and practical examinations required for a professional license.

What You’ll Learn:

• Use critical thinking skills and comprehensive problem-solving to identify oral health care strategies that promote patient health and wellness.
• Use patient assessment data, diagnostic technologies, and critical decision making skills to determine a process of comprehensive care.
• Communicate effectively with diverse individuals and groups, serving all persons without discrimination by acknowledging and appreciating diversity.
• Provide oral health services in a variety of settings. Advocate for effective oral health care for underserved populations.
• Use evidence-based decision making to evaluate emerging technology and treatment modalities to integrate into patient dental hygiene.

As a graduate of Missouri Southern's pre-dental program, you'll turn your love for science and health into a life-long career.

We give you all the tools you'll need to successfully continue onto dental school and further you along the path to your dream career.

What You’ll Learn:

• The successful graduate from the Biology program will understand and use fundamental biological concepts in the following areas: 1) cell biology, 2) genetics and molecular biology, 3) organismal biology, and 4) ecology, evolution, and population biology.
• The successful graduate from the Biology program will understand and use the scientific method to solve problems.
• The successful graduate from the Biology program will communicate effectively in writing.
• The successful graduate from the Biology program will demonstrate satisfactory laboratory and field skills.
• The successful graduate from the Biology program will be prepared for graduate or professional curriculum or employment in a biological field.