DENTAL HYGIENE

Extended Degree Program - Associate in Applied Science (DHY.APP)

This program leads to an Associate in Applied Science Degree and is designated as an Extended Degree Program in that the student must complete a minimum of 73 or more required credit hours. The program prepares selected individuals through theory and clinical experiences to assume the responsibility of caring for the dental patient in the prevention of dental disease. This includes home care instruction, oral prophylaxis and topical fluoride application. Graduates of this program, accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Accreditation, are eligible to take licensing examinations as prescribed by the board of dental examiners in the state which they choose to practice; satisfactory achievement qualifies the graduate for licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH). Proof of high school graduation, GED or equivalent and proof of graduation from an accredited dental hygiene program must be submitted to the board of dental examiners. A licensed dental hygienist, who works under the direction and supervision of a dentist, may find employment in schools, clinics and hospitals as well as in private dental offices.

Program Admissions Procedures:
Admission to the college does not include admission to the Dental Hygiene Program. A limited number of students are admitted to the program through a selection procedure. Students interested in this program must declare Dental Hygiene as their curriculum and have proof of high school graduation, GED or equivalent in their student file. Students must obtain a 2.0 “C” or better grade point in all the currently required college and program courses for an Associate in Applied Science Degree in order to be certified as eligible to write the NBDHE. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Highland Lakes Counseling center. Dental Hygiene courses involving clinical experiences are offered only at the Highland Lakes Campus. The Michigan Board of Dentistry may deny dental hygiene licensure to an applicant who has been convicted of a crime or is addicted to drugs or alcohol.

The Michigan Board of Dentistry may deny dental hygiene licensure to an applicant who has been convicted of a crime or is addicted to drugs or alcohol.