What should I know about dental hygiene schools in Georgia?

I'm exploring different career paths and have been thinking about dental hygiene. What are some of the highly recommended dental hygiene schools in Georgia? Are there any specific prerequisites or programs I should consider?

There are quite a few reputable dental hygiene schools in Georgia, including Clayton State University, Augusta University, and Georgia State University, among others. The specific prerequisites can vary from school to school, but in general, you'll need a high school diploma or GED as a minimum entrance requirement.

Dental hygiene programs typically also require you to have completed certain science-related coursework (think Anatomy, Chemistry, etc.) with a satisfactory grade. If you are still in high school, you might want to consider focusing on science and health-related classes. If you've already graduated, don't worry, as many dental hygiene programs also offer prerequisite courses for students lacking these requirements.

Once you're in a dental hygiene program, expect to study a range of topics, including anatomy, dental health, radiology, oral disease prevention, dental materials, and clinical dental hygiene. These programs typically consist of both classroom-based lessons and clinical practice, where you'll get hands-on experience in supervised settings.

Do keep in mind that after your studies, you'll need to pass a national written exam and a state or regional clinical exam to become a licensed dental hygienist. Georgia, like other states, requires licensure to work as a dental hygienist.

Finally, if you are considering this career, getting some volunteer or shadowing experience at a dental office can give you a fantastic taste of the job. Many students find this helpful in solidifying their career choices.