Dental Hygiene Schools in Washington?

I'm planning to pursue dental hygiene and looking into schools in Washington state. What are some highly recommended dental hygiene schools there, and what should I consider when choosing the right one for me?

Hello,

Washington State has a good selection of dental hygiene programs offering various benefits. Here are a few well-regarded programs you can look into:

1. University of Washington (Seattle): University of Washington offers a Bachelor's program in Oral Health Sciences which is a preparatory course for careers in dental hygiene and more.

2. Lake Washington Institute of Technology (Kirkland): LWIT provides a respected dental hygiene program. They emphasize hands-on learning and have a strong track record of students passing their licensures.

3. Shoreline Community College (Shoreline): Shoreline offers a comprehensive Dental Hygiene Associate Degree. They too have a simulation lab for hands-on practice and high board exam passing rates.

When choosing the right dental hygiene school for you, consider several factors:

1. Program Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited, ensuring that you'll get a quality education that meets standardized criteria.

2. Licensure Success: Look at the school's statistics for students passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and earning their state licensure.

3. Practical Training: Dental hygiene often involves hands-on training, so look for programs that offer lots of practical experience, like simulation labs or required internships.

4. Course Rigor and Contents: Review the curriculum to see if it covers all relevant aspects of dental hygiene, including preventive care, oral health education, etc.

5. School Resources: Look into the available resources such as school clinics, advising, career guidance, etc.

6. Location: Depending on your lifestyle and preferences, this might be a noteworthy factor—whether you prefer urban hustle or a quieter setting can influence your school choice.

7. Cost: This is an important factor. Research not just tuition but also cost of living in that area, particularly if you plan on moving.

It's essential to do your research, reach out to current students or alumni if possible, and consider visiting the campus to get a feel for the environment there. Good luck with your search!