Are you thinking about becoming a dental hygienist?
Working as a dental hygienist can be a very rewarding and lucrative career. In fact, the average pay for a dental hygienist is $36 to $46 per hour. In order to become a dental hygienist, you first need to attend a dental hygiene program.
How do you choose the right program?
Check out this guide to learn how it’s done.
1. Consider the Location
One of the biggest things you want to consider when choosing a dental hygiene program is the location.
You can find dental hygiene programs all across the country, and most of them take two years to complete. So, if you’re looking for an adventure and a change of pace, you may want to go to a school away from home.
However, keep in mind that it’s typically easier to get a job in the city where you graduate school. This is because during your years of study, you’ll be able to work internships and make connections that can later help you land a job.
2. Check for Accreditation
Regardless of if you choose to attend a dental hygiene school that’s near home or across the country, it’s important that you look for a program that’s accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
Programs that are accredited by the CDAC have proven that they meet the highest quality standards in terms of education. Which in turn helps ensure patient safety.
Most dental hygiene programs will state their accreditations on their website, but it”s also always a good idea to ask.
3. Online vs In-Person
You also need to consider whether you want to complete your dental hygiene program online or in-person.
While many people like the convenience of online programs, it’s important to keep in mind that dental hygiene is a very hands-on progression. Therefore, an in-person learning environment is best for most people.
It’s also important to keep in mind that even if you do complete your dental hygiene program online, you’ll still need to do your clinicals in person.
4. Consider the Reputation
It’s also very important to consider the reputation of the school before enrolling.
You want to find a dental hygiene school that puts its students first and fosters a welcoming learning environment. One of the best ways to learn about the reputation of a program is to talk to current and former students.
If you don’t know anyone personally who has attended the program, you can get in touch with the school’s registrar for some references.
5. Consider the Price
Last but not least, you also need to consider the price of the program.
Dental hygiene programs are full-time, which means that many people find it too difficult to work during their program. The good news is though, these programs are only two years and are much cheaper than earning a bachelor’s degree.
Still, it’s important to compare prices so you can find the right fit for you. We also suggest talking to the school you’re thinking about attending about their financial aid options.
Time to Choose a Dental Hygiene Program
Now that you’ve read this guide, it’s time to choose the dental hygiene program that’s right for you.
If you’re looking for a dental hygiene program in Southern Ontario, contact us today. We have a 99 percent graduation rate and a 95 percent employment rate thanks to our innovative curriculum and hands-on education.