Dental hygienist opportunities straight out of high school?

I'm graduating soon and am curious about starting a career as a dental hygienist right after high school. Are there specific programs or apprenticeships I should look into that don't require a degree?

While becoming a dental hygienist is a fantastic career choice, there's a certain level of education and certification required for this role that goes beyond high school. Generally, to work as a dental hygienist, most states require that individuals complete an accredited dental hygiene program at a community college, technical school, or university, typically resulting in an associate degree.

The coursework combines classroom, laboratory, and clinical components, covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, radiography, and periodontology. This level of specialized training is fundamental to ensure that dental hygienists can effectively provide oral healthcare services to patients.

After the dental hygiene program, you'll need to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, a written test, and a state or regional clinical examination. Keep in mind that requirements can vary by state, so it's important to check with your state's dental board for specific licensing requirements.

While there aren't typically apprenticeships that let you bypass this process, there are some career pathways that can begin straight out of high school if you're interested in dentistry. For example, dental assisting is a position that often requires only a high school diploma or equivalent, and it can provide valuable experience in a dental setting. Some dental hygienists start their careers as dental assistants, gaining firsthand knowledge of the field before choosing to invest in additional education to move up the ranks.

Keep in mind that beginning your career quickly is not always the best choice if it limits your career growth later on. Invest in your education and long-term career prospects, even if it means dedicating a few more years to studying and training. That being said, dental hygiene programs are designed to be accessible and affordable, with many available as two-year programs at community colleges.