Anne Arundel Community College Announces Dental Hygiene Program

Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) has welcomed its first cohort of dental hygiene students this fall. This semester’s inaugural dental hygiene classes cover dental hygiene theory, dental anatomy and tooth morphology, oral histology and embryology, dental hygiene radiology, and dental hygiene clinical.

Dental hygienists play a crucial role in patient care. They take X-rays and help patients prevent cavities, gingivitis and periodontal disease by removing tartar, stains and plaque from teeth, in addition to educating patients on proper oral hygiene procedures.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the dental hygiene profession is expected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to a projected 16,400 openings nationwide for dental hygienists each year throughout the decade. Graduates can expect career opportunities in dental offices, clinics, hospitals and public health agencies.

Students who complete AACC’s new two-year, five-term program will receive an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, after which they will be qualified to sit for the American Board of Dental Examiners’ National Licensing Examination for Dental Hygiene.

“At AACC, students can embark on a fulfilling journey in dental hygiene where passion meets purpose,” Interim Director of Dental Education Badal Patel, a registered dental hygienist, said in a press release. “The college and I believe that students can join us in making a difference by learning how to provide comprehensive dental hygiene care and educating individuals and communities about the critical connection between oral health and overall well-being.”

AACC’s new dental hygiene program is a selective admission program, so interested parties must apply for acceptance. Additional information about the new program can be found at www.aacc.edu/programs-and-courses/credit-and-degree-seekers/dental-hygiene.