Pursuing a career in dental hygiene can be a rewarding and challenging profession. With the increasing demand for oral healthcare services, the job prospects for dental hygienists are excellent. Ivy Tech Community College is one of the institutions that offer a dental hygiene program, which can lead to a fulfilling career in this field. Here are 5 ways to become a dental hygienist at Ivy Tech:
Meet the Basic Requirements
To be eligible for the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech, you must meet the basic requirements. These include:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete prerequisite courses in sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy
- Take the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) Admissions Assessment (A2) exam
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5
Apply to the Dental Hygiene Program
Once you have met the basic requirements, you can apply to the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech. The application process typically includes:
- Submitting an application to the college
- Providing official transcripts from previous institutions
- Paying an application fee
- Completing a personal statement or essay
Complete the Dental Hygiene Curriculum
The dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a licensed dental hygienist. The curriculum includes:
- Classroom instruction in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology
- Clinical experience in a dental clinic setting
- Laboratory training in dental hygiene procedures
Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
After completing the dental hygiene program, you will be eligible to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). This exam is administered by the American Dental Association (ADA) and is required for licensure in most states.
Obtain a License to Practice
After passing the NBDHE, you will be eligible to apply for a license to practice as a dental hygienist in the state of Indiana. This typically involves:
- Submitting an application to the Indiana State Board of Dentistry
- Paying a licensure fee
- Providing proof of liability insurance
Gallery of Dental Hygiene Images
FAQ Section
What is the average salary for a dental hygienist in Indiana?
+The average salary for a dental hygienist in Indiana is around $70,000 per year.
How long does it take to complete the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech?
+The dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech typically takes two years to complete.
Is the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech accredited?
+Yes, the dental hygiene program at Ivy Tech is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to become a dental hygienist at Ivy Tech. Remember to meet the basic requirements, apply to the program, complete the curriculum, pass the NBDHE, and obtain a license to practice. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. Share this article with your friends and family who may be interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene.