Introduction
Becoming a dental hygienist is an increasingly sought-after profession due to its high earning potential, job security, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on oral health. Wallace State Community College offers a competitive dental hygiene program that prepares students for success in this rewarding field.
The Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene at Wallace State provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to perform preventive dental procedures, educate patients on oral health, and assist dentists in providing comprehensive oral care. The program consists of a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations.
Curriculum and Coursework
The curriculum includes courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Dental Materials
- Oral Pathology
- Patient Care
- Periodontology
- Endodontics
- Radiology
Students also complete clinical rotations in various settings, including general practice offices, hospitals, and public health clinics.
Graduates of the dental hygiene program at Wallace State are qualified to work as licensed dental hygienists in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
- Private dental practices
- Dental clinics
- Hospitals
- Public health agencies
- Dental schools
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists have a projected job growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. The median annual salary for dental hygienists is $77,000.
Admissions Requirements
To be eligible for admission to Wallace State’s dental hygiene program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Submit an application and official transcripts
- Complete an entrance exam
- Pass a criminal background check
- Accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation
- Small class sizes with personalized instruction
- State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
- Experienced and dedicated faculty
- Flexible scheduling options
Student Support
Wallace State offers a variety of student support services to dental hygiene students, including:
- Academic advising
- Tutoring
- Career counseling
- Financial aid assistance
- Wellness services
- Ignoring the importance of GPA: Maintaining a high GPA is crucial for admission into the program.
- Delaying submission of materials: Application deadlines should be met promptly to avoid missing out on admission opportunities.
- Not preparing adequately for the entrance exam: The entrance exam is competitive, so it is important to prepare thoroughly.
- Underestimating the cost of the program: Dental hygiene programs require significant financial investment, so it is important to plan accordingly.
- Not taking advantage of student support services: Student support services are available to help students succeed, so it is important to utilize them.
Pros:
- High earning potential
- Job security
- Opportunity to make a positive impact on oral health
- Variety of work settings
- Flexible scheduling options
Cons:
- Requires a significant financial investment
- Can be physically and emotionally demanding
- May involve exposure to potentially infectious materials
Q: How long does it take to complete the dental hygiene program at Wallace State?
A: The program can be completed in two years full-time or at a part-time pace.
Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: The estimated cost for tuition and fees is approximately $15,000. Additional expenses may include books, supplies, and clinical equipment.
Q: Is the dental hygiene program at Wallace State competitive?
A: Yes, the program is competitive, with a limited number of students accepted each year.
Q: What is the job outlook for dental hygienists in Alabama?
A: The job outlook is positive, with a projected growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030.
Q: What are the opportunities for career advancement for dental hygienists?
A: Dental hygienists can advance their careers by pursuing further education, specializing in a specific area, or becoming a licensed dental assistant.
Q: What is the salary range for dental hygienists in Alabama?
A: The median annual salary for dental hygienists in Alabama is $72,000.
Conclusion
Becoming a dental hygienist is a rewarding and in-demand career path. Wallace State Community College offers a competitive program that prepares students for success in this field. Graduates of the program can expect to enjoy excellent job opportunities, high earning potential, and the satisfaction of making a difference in the oral health of their patients.