Dental Hygiene Program

Dental Hygiene Program

Curriculum | Admission Requirements | Financial Information | Health Requirements | FAQ

The Dental Hygiene Program at Pacific will:

1. Educate individuals who, upon completion of the program, will be professionally competent to provide quality dental hygiene care in an evolving profession
2. Provide patient-centered, quality care in an efficient clinical model that demonstrates the highest standards of service achievable
3. Provide opportunities for community based, experiential learning
4. Continuous enhancement through professional development
5. Humanistic values that respect the dignity of each individual and foster the potential for growth in all of us
6. Application of theory and data for continuous improvement
7. Leadership in addressing the challenges facing the profession of dental hygiene, including dental education and affordable dental care

The program and its graduates will be distinguished by:

• Humanistic Orientation
  University of the Pacific’s Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry has long been recognized for the quality of its facilities, faculty, humanistic teaching approach, patient services and community interaction. It will bring these strengths and more to this new program.
  Dental students note that faculty treat them as peers starting on the first day of school. University of the Pacific places great emphasis on self-confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, the collaborative, non-competitive relationships among current students is considered a great asset.
• Dental Hygiene Employment Opportunities
  A career in dental hygiene offers multiple opportunities in a variety of settings. About 70% of dental hygienists practice in private dental offices. Providing direct clinical care, the hygienist plays an integral role on the dental team assisting patients to achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Alternatively, hygienists may chose dental hygiene careers in Public Health, Research, Management, Special Needs Patient Care, Teaching, and Administration.
  
  For a more extensive list of dental hygiene work settings please contact the following:
  - American Dental Hygienist’s Association
  - California Dental Hygiene Association
  - American Dental Association
  
  Dental hygiene is a rapidly growing profession. The U.S. Department of Labor advises that dental hygiene is projected to be one of the 30 fastest growing occupations. Population growth and greater retention of natural teeth will stimulate demand for dental hygienists. Additionally, the local San Joaquin/ Central Valley area job market is very favorable for dental hygienists.