Why the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry’s Dental Hygiene Program is an Excellent Choice for Aspiring Registered Dental Hygienists

Are you considering a career as a registered dental hygienist? The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry offers an outstanding dental hygiene program that could be the perfect launchpad for your professional journey. Here’s why UDM stands out as an excellent choice for students pursuing this rewarding healthcare career.

1. Prestigious University Setting

As part of a renowned private Catholic university, the dental hygiene program at UDM benefits from the institution’s rich academic tradition and resources. This setting provides students with a comprehensive university experience while pursuing their specialized dental hygiene education.

2. Accredited Program

The dental hygiene program at UDM is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous national standards, providing students with a high-quality education that prepares them for licensure and professional practice.

3. Comprehensive Curriculum

UDM offers a well-rounded curriculum that covers all crucial aspects of dental hygiene, including:

• Advanced dental anatomy and physiology
• Oral pathology and medicine
• Dental radiography
• Periodontics
• Pharmacology
• Advanced clinical dental hygiene practices
• Patient education and communication
• Ethics and professionalism in dentistry

This thorough approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for the diverse challenges of their future careers.

4. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Students at UDM benefit from learning in modern, well-equipped dental clinics and laboratories within the School of Dentistry. These facilities mirror real-world dental office environments and often surpass them in technological capabilities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge dental technology and equipment.

5. Experienced Faculty

The program boasts a team of highly qualified dental professionals, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields. This ensures students receive practical, up-to-date instruction from experts who are shaping the future of dental hygiene.

6. Extensive Clinical Experience

A standout feature of UDM’s program is the extensive clinical experience offered to students. The on-campus dental clinic provides supervised opportunities for students to treat real patients, honing their skills and building confidence in a supportive environment. Additionally, UDM’s connections with local dental practices may offer external clinical rotations.

7. Research Opportunities

As a university program, UDM offers opportunities for students to engage in dental research projects. This exposure to the scientific aspect of dentistry can be invaluable for those considering advanced degrees or specializations in the field.

8. Interprofessional Education

Being part of a larger School of Dentistry allows for interprofessional education opportunities. Dental hygiene students often interact with dental students, fostering a collaborative approach to oral healthcare that mirrors real-world practice.

9. Focus on Advanced Technology

The program keeps pace with the rapidly evolving field of dental hygiene by incorporating the latest technological advancements into its curriculum. This ensures graduates are familiar with cutting-edge techniques and equipment used in modern dental practices.

10. Emphasis on Preventive Care and Public Health

UDM’s program places a strong emphasis on preventive dental care, patient education, and public health aspects of dental hygiene. This aligns with the growing focus on preventive healthcare in the dental industry, making graduates well-positioned for success in their careers.

11. Preparation for National Board Examination

The curriculum is designed to thoroughly prepare students for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, a crucial step in becoming a licensed dental hygienist. UDM’s program has a strong track record of graduates performing well on this important exam.

12. Career Services Support

UDM provides comprehensive career services to support students in their transition from education to employment. This includes assistance with job searches, resume writing, and interview preparation, as well as access to a strong alumni network in the dental field.

13. Diverse Patient Population

Located in Detroit, UDM’s dental clinic serves a diverse urban population. This exposure prepares students to work with patients from various backgrounds, enhancing their cultural competence and communication skills.

14. Opportunities for Advanced Education

For those interested in pursuing advanced degrees, UDM offers a clear pathway. The university provides options for continuing education and advanced degrees in dental hygiene or related fields, which can lead to careers in education, research, or specialized practice areas.

In conclusion, the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry’s dental hygiene program offers a comprehensive, high-quality education for aspiring dental hygienists. With its university setting, accredited status, experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and focus on advanced clinical experience, it equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this growing healthcare field. If you’re passionate about oral health and seeking a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and specialization, UDM’s dental hygiene program could be the perfect stepping stone to your professional success.