Are you passionate about oral health and eager to make a difference in the lives of others? If so, a career in dental hygiene might be the perfect fit for you. Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) offers a top-notch dental hygiene program that will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this rewarding field.
Why Choose Dental Hygiene at GTCC?
GTCC’s dental hygiene program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in all aspects of oral health care. The program includes:
- Hands-on clinical experience
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Experienced and dedicated faculty
- Small class sizes
- Flexible scheduling options
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and become licensed dental hygienists.
Career Outlook for Dental Hygienists
The career outlook for dental hygienists is excellent. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow by 20% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for preventive dental care and the aging population.
Salary and Benefits
Dental hygienists earn a competitive salary and enjoy excellent benefits. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dental hygienists was $77,040 in May 2021. The top 10% of earners made more than $114,340, while the bottom 10% earned less than $55,160.
In addition to a competitive salary, dental hygienists often enjoy the following benefits:
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement benefits
What You’ll Learn in the Dental Hygiene Program at GTCC
The dental hygiene program at GTCC covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Oral anatomy and physiology
- Dental disease prevention and treatment
- Dental materials and techniques
- Radiography
- Periodontology
- Endodontics
- Orthodontics
- Pedodontics
- Dental hygiene law and ethics
Students will also gain experience in a variety of clinical settings, including:
- The GTCC Dental Hygiene Clinic
- Local dental offices
- Schools
- Nursing homes
How to Apply to the Dental Hygiene Program at GTCC
To apply to the dental hygiene program at GTCC, you must:
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Submit an application to the GTCC Admissions Office
- Submit official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities
- Complete the Dental Hygiene Program Application Supplement
- Attend a mandatory information session
The application deadline for the dental hygiene program is March 1st. For more information, please visit the GTCC website or contact the Dental Hygiene Program Director.
Conclusion
If you are passionate about oral health and are looking for a rewarding career, the dental hygiene program at GTCC is the perfect choice for you. The program will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this exciting field.
Additional Information
- The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is the national organization representing dental hygienists.
- The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is the accrediting body for dental hygiene programs in the United States.
- The North Carolina Dental Hygienists’ Association (NCDHA) is the state organization representing dental hygienists in North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the prerequisites for the dental hygiene program at GTCC?
You must have a high school diploma or GED and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- How long is the dental hygiene program at GTCC?
The dental hygiene program is a two-year program.
- How much does the dental hygiene program at GTCC cost?
The cost of the dental hygiene program varies depending on your residency status and whether you are attending full-time or part-time. For more information, please contact the GTCC Admissions Office.
- What is the job outlook for dental hygienists?
The job outlook for dental hygienists is excellent. The demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow by 20% from 2021 to 2031.
- What are the benefits of being a dental hygienist?
Dental hygienists enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
