Are you interested in a health career? Have you thought about a career as a dental hygienist?
The dental hygiene program prepares you to become a dental hygienist in two years. A dental hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who provides educational, clinical, and therapeutic services in a variety of settings. Procedures include oral health assessments, dental radiography, oral health education, removal of soft and hard deposits from teeth, local anesthesia, and sealant placement. The California Dental Hygiene Scope of Practice (CA Bus & Prof Code § 1907-1915) is provided in the Dental Hygiene Board of California Laws and Regulations Book.
Career Opportunities
The dental hygiene program will prepare you for work in a variety of occupations and career paths, including:
- Clinical dental hygienist
- Public health dental hygienist
With additional education:
- Registered dental hygienist in alternative practice
- Corporate sales representative
- Product researcher
- Dental hygiene educator
- Oral health administrator
- Dentist
Degree
Change your life with a dental hygiene associate degree!
Apply to the Program
First, apply to DVC. After you're accepted at DVC, apply to the Dental Hygiene program.
Apply to Dental HygieneDVC dental students sincerely care about achieving goals as a class and not just as individuals. The quality of instruction coupled with the high standards established by the program will prepare you to graduate and be ready to take on your new career.
Salvador Rodriguez, Student
About degrees and certificates
Certificates:
A certificate readily prepares you to enter a particular field or career. It can also give you new skills for advancement in the workplace.
Associate Degrees:
An associate degree requires a broader education for career options in a range of industries. It's a great step towards earning a bachelor degree at a four-year school or entering the workforce sooner.
Associate Degrees for Transfer:
A transfer degree is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program. Earning one can guarantee admission to California State Universities, some private and online universities, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). ADTs, along with a transfer agreement guarantee (TAG) with the University of California system can help you achieve your goals for less. Learn about transfer services.