Dental Hygiene Major at Chaffey College

Mario Alvarez College Success Course October 2023

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Academic and Career Community

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Dental Hygiene is part of the Health and Wellness Community
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Focuses on preparing students for healthcare and patient wellness careers
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Emphasizes hands-on training and real-world applications

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Degree and Certificate Options

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Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene
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Prepares students for licensure as Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH)
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Provides foundational and advanced training in dental care

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Program Description

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Study oral anatomy, preventive care, and dental radiography
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Learn periodontal disease prevention and patient education
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Master infection control and ethical standards
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Gain clinical experience in dental offices and healthcare settings

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Program Learning Outcomes

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Perform dental cleanings and preventive procedures
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Take and interpret dental radiographs (X-rays)
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Educate patients on oral health and hygiene practices
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Follow professional, ethical, and infection-control standards
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Collaborate effectively with dentists and patients

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Career Connection: Dental Hygienist

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Job responsibilities: clean teeth, examine patients, provide preventive care
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Work environment: dental offices, clinics, public health settings
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Importance: improves oral health and prevents disease in communities

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Direct patient interaction and education
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Collaboration with dentists and healthcare teams
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Opportunities for specialization or advanced roles

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Salary and Job Outlook

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Chart or graph showing salary data and job growth projections for dental hygienists

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California average salary: $110,000 per year
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U.S. average salary: $81,000 per year
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Projected job growth: 9% from 2021 to 2031 (U.S. BLS)
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Strong demand due to aging population and focus on preventive care

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Program Map

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A program map outlines the recommended course sequence
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Includes major courses like Oral Anatomy, Dental Radiography, and Periodontics
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Link: Chaffey College Dental Hygiene Program Map
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Designed to ensure students complete requirements efficiently

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“

I chose Dental Hygiene because I enjoy helping people and am passionate about healthcare. This career offers strong job opportunities, good pay, and the chance to make a positive impact on patients’ lives.

Mario Alvarez

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Conclusion

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Dental Hygiene is a rewarding major with strong career prospects
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Graduates earn an AS degree and gain essential clinical skills
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High salaries and job growth reflect strong demand
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Opportunity to improve public health through patient education

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References

Questions & discussion, contact email or link...

Chaffey College. (n.d.). Dental Hygiene Program. Retrieved from Chaffey College website • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). Dental Hygienists. Occupational Outlook Handbook • California Employment Development Department. (2023). Occupational Employment Statistics for Dental Hygienists • American Dental Hygienists’ Association. (2023). Career Information and Resources

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