Dental Hygienist

Learn more about our Dental Hygiene Associate in Science Degree program.

Apply for clinicals - Fall 2023 clinical application link  will be here Spring 2023.

Introduction to Dentistry course information (pdf)
Register for Spring 2022 Introduction to Dentistry Registration

What does a dental hygienist do?
A dental hygienist is qualified by education and licensure to provide:

• Patient assessment - including reviewing health history, recording vital signs, radiographic examination, and charting
• Treatment planning
• Patient education
• Administration of local anesthesia
• Removal of deposits and stains from teeth
• Placement of sealants

Learn more about the career (American Dental Association website).

How much does the program cost?
Download the Estimated Expenses (pdf).

 

What degree will I earn? Will I be eligible for credentials?
Upon successful completion, you will:

• earn a Dental Hygiene Associate in Science degree
• be eligible to sit for licensing exams to become a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)

What are the required courses and what is the suggested schedule? How long does the program take to complete? Where are the clinical classes held?

• Download a list of Required Courses, which includes a sample schedule (pdf).
• The dental hygiene program holds classes at the Harrisburg Campus. General education courses may be taken at other campuses and sites.

 

What are the program clinical admission criteria and how do I apply for clinicals?

• Admission to HACC does not guarantee admission to the clinical component of the program. Work closely with your advisor to prepare to apply to the clinical/core component.
• Meet with a dental hygiene advisor.
• Download Admission Criteria, Point System and Essential Qualifications (pdf).
• Apply for clinicals - Fall 2023 clinical application via SurveyMonkey will be here Spring 2023.
  • You must have already taken the TEAS test (minimum score 62)
  • and attended a mandatory application session within the past 9 months. (information session dates will be here Fall 2022.

• Learn more about the TEAS test here. Includes link to the ATI website to register, remote proctoring, contact information, study groups and TEAS information sessions.

  • FOR DENTAL HYGIENE - Three attempts in an application cycle is permitted for the TEAS exam. Scores are acceptable for three years.
  • The TEAS test will be updated to Version 7 June 2022.
  • Beginning in fall of 2023 ONLY Version 7 tests will be accepted.
• Attend a (60-minute) mandatory information session (currently all via ZOOM). RSVP required - Email RSVPDHadvising@hacc.edu to reserve your seat. Space is limited and sessions fill quickly. When you RSVP include your name, ID, email address and which session. Download Fall 2021 Dental Hygiene Mandatory Application Information Session letter.
  • Check back for fall 2022 dates and letter.
• Download the Competencies for Entry into the Profession of Dental Hygiene
• Download the Dental Hygienist Shadowing Form - send forms to RSVPDHadvising@hacc.edu
• Download the Verification of Clinical Dental Assisting Hours Form (pdf) - send  forms to  RSVPDHadvising@hacc.edu
• Download immunization requirements for the dental hygiene program
• Download High School Graduation Verification Information (pdf)

Is the program accredited?
The program is accredited by The Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA).

• View Third Party Comments here. (pdf)
• Learn why accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) matters. (pdf)

 

Can I advance my education?

• This program leads directly to an occupation
• Students can pursue
  • Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at University of Bridgeport
  • Dental Hygiene, Completion, Online | Pennsylvania College of Technology (pct.edu)
  • Bachelor of Science in Allied Health at Widener University
• Learn more about Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary Program (EFDA).

 

What are the program goals?

• Download the Program Mission Statement (pdf).

 

What is the most current (2020) program effectiveness data?

• Five-year completion rate 85%
• Program performance:
  • National board exams (five years) 94% success rate at second attempt is 100%
  • CDCA Clinical examination 90% pass rate first attempt
  • CDCA Written examination 100% pass rate first attempt
• Job placement 100%

How can I get more information?

• View a list of available scholarships.
• Review the CODA Complaint Policy.
• View information about HACC's Dental Treatment Facility
• Download the Program Faculty and Staff (pdf).

Who can I contact for more information?
Please contact an Admissions Counselor, by phone at 800-ABC-HACC, or by email at start@hacc.edu

Dental Hygiene Program Office

Select Medical Health Education Pavilion (SMHEP), Room 104
HACC Harrisburg Campus
1 HACC Drive
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-780-2490

Mail clinical program addendum to the above address Attention: DH Secretary.