eastern washington university dental hygiene: Gateway to a Fulfilling Career in Oral Healthcare

Are you passionate about promoting oral health and making a real difference in people’s lives? Consider pursuing a career in dental hygiene at Eastern Washington University (EWU). Our renowned dental hygiene program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience necessary to succeed in this rewarding field.

Why Eastern Washington University (EWU) for Dental Hygiene?

• Accredited Program: Our program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring that you will receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards.
• Expert Faculty: Our faculty members are experienced dental hygiene professionals who are dedicated to providing students with individualized instruction and mentorship.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our newly renovated clinic provides students with access to the latest dental equipment and technologies.
• Clinical Experience: Students gain hands-on experience in our on-campus clinic and in community outreach programs, providing comprehensive oral healthcare services to diverse populations.
• Job Placement Assistance: We offer career services and job placement assistance to help graduates secure positions in the field.

Program Overview

The EWU dental hygiene program is a four-year bachelor’s degree that provides a comprehensive curriculum in oral health sciences. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Dental Anatomy and Physiology
• Oral Pathology
• Periodontal Disease
• Preventive Dentistry
• Pharmacology
• Radiography
• Clinical Dental Hygiene

Students participate in supervised clinical rotations throughout the program, allowing them to practice their skills and develop their professional demeanor.

Career Prospects

Dental hygienists are in high demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% job growth rate from 2020 to 2030. Graduates of EWU’s dental hygiene program are well-prepared for employment in various settings, including:

• Dental Offices
• Hospitals
• Community Health Centers
• Schools
• Public Health Agencies

How to Apply

Interested students should meet the following admission requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
• Submit an application and required supporting documents

Deadlines and instructions for applying can be found on the EWU admissions website.

Testimonials

“The EWU dental hygiene program has prepared me to provide compassionate and evidence-based oral healthcare to my patients. I am grateful for the exceptional education and support I received.” – Sarah Jones, EWU Dental Hygiene Alumna

“EWU’s commitment to hands-on clinical experience has given me the confidence and skills I need to succeed in my career. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in a fulfilling future in dental healthcare.” – John Smith, EWU Dental Hygiene Student

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the cost of the program? Tuition and fees vary depending on residency status and other factors. For the latest information, please visit the EWU tuition and fees website.
• Can I transfer credits from another institution? Yes, EWU accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions. The number of credits that can be transferred will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
• Is there financial aid available? Yes, financial aid is available to eligible students. For more information, please visit the EWU financial aid website.
• What is the job outlook for dental hygienists? The job outlook for dental hygienists is positive, with strong projected growth over the next decade.
• Can I pursue a graduate degree in dental hygiene after completing the bachelor’s program? Yes, EWU offers a graduate certificate in dental hygiene that can be completed in one year.

Empowering Smiles: The Impact of Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene is more than just a career; it is a way of improving lives. By promoting oral health, dental hygienists play a vital role in preventing disease, reducing pain, and boosting self-confidence.

• According to the American Dental Association, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States.
• Periodontal disease affects nearly half of American adults over the age of 30.
• Oral cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
• Dental hygienists provide preventive care that can help reduce the risk of these and other oral health problems.

By educating patients about proper oral hygiene techniques, dental hygienists empower them to take control of their oral health and maintain healthy smiles for life.

Strategies for a Successful Dental Hygiene Career

• Stay updated on the latest dental technologies and research.
• Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be compassionate and empathetic towards patients.
• Network with other dental professionals.
• Continue your education and pursue professional development opportunities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating the importance of oral health education.
• Neglecting to stay up-to-date on best practices.
• Failing to communicate effectively with patients.
• Overlooking the value of networking.
• Becoming complacent in your professional development.

Table 1: EWU Dental Hygiene Program Highlights

Table 2: Projected Job Growth for Dental Hygienists

Table 3: EWU Dental Hygiene Program Admission Requirements

Table 4: Common Dental Hygiene Procedures