Why St. Louis Community College-Forest Park is an Excellent Choice for Aspiring Dental Hygienists

Are you passionate about oral health and looking for a high-quality, affordable path to becoming a registered dental hygienist? Look no further than the exceptional dental hygiene program at St. Louis Community College-Forest Park (STLCC-Forest Park). Here’s why STLCC-Forest Park stands out as a top choice for students aspiring to enter this rewarding field:

1. Accredited Program

STLCC-Forest Park’s dental hygiene program is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This accreditation ensures that the education you receive meets rigorous national standards, thoroughly preparing you for your future career.

2. Affordable Education

As a community college, STLCC-Forest Park offers high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of many four-year institutions. This affordability allows you to pursue your career goals without accumulating excessive student debt.

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities

The dental hygiene program at STLCC-Forest Park boasts modern, well-equipped facilities that mirror what you’ll find in professional settings. This exposure to current technology and equipment ensures you’re prepared for the realities of the workplace upon graduation.

4. Hands-On Clinical Experience

STLCC-Forest Park provides extensive hands-on training through its on-campus dental clinic. This real-world experience is invaluable, allowing students to build confidence and competence in patient care under expert supervision.

5. Experienced Faculty

The program is led by a team of experienced dental professionals who are passionate about teaching. Their expertise ensures that students receive top-notch education and mentorship throughout their studies.

6. Comprehensive Curriculum

STLCC-Forest Park’s dental hygiene curriculum covers all aspects of the profession, including clinical skills, patient education, preventive care, and the latest advancements in oral health. The program also includes general education courses, providing a well-rounded education.

7. Strong Community Partnerships

STLCC-Forest Park has established strong relationships with local dental practices and healthcare facilities in the St. Louis area. These partnerships often lead to externship opportunities and can be valuable for job placement after graduation.

8. Emphasis on Professional Development

Beyond clinical skills, STLCC-Forest Park focuses on developing students’ professional skills, including communication, ethics, and practice management. This holistic approach prepares graduates for long-term success in their careers.

9. Flexible Learning Options

While the dental hygiene program requires significant on-campus time for clinical work, STLCC-Forest Park understands the needs of diverse learners and may offer some courses with flexible scheduling or online components.

10. High Board Exam Pass Rates

STLCC-Forest Park takes pride in its consistently high pass rates on the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. This track record speaks to the quality of education and preparation students receive.

11. Community Outreach Opportunities

The program emphasizes community service, providing students with opportunities to participate in oral health education and screening events in the St. Louis area. These experiences enhance your skills while making a positive impact in the community.

12. Pathway to Advanced Education

While the associate degree prepares you for immediate entry into the workforce, it also provides a solid foundation for further education. Many graduates choose to pursue bachelor’s or master’s degrees in dental hygiene or related fields.

13. Career Services Support

STLCC-Forest Park offers robust career services to help students transition from education to employment. From resume writing workshops to job fairs, you’ll have support in launching your career.

14. Diverse Patient Experience

Located in the heart of St. Louis, the program’s clinic serves a diverse patient population, giving students experience in treating a wide range of oral health conditions and working with patients from various backgrounds.

15. Focus on Evidence-Based Practice

STLCC-Forest Park emphasizes evidence-based practice in its dental hygiene program, ensuring that graduates are prepared to provide the most current and effective care to their patients.

16. Strong Alumni Network

Graduating from STLCC-Forest Park means joining a vast network of alumni in the dental field throughout the St. Louis area and beyond. This network can be invaluable for career opportunities and professional development.

Choosing St. Louis Community College-Forest Park for your dental hygiene education is a smart decision that can set you on the path to a rewarding career. With its combination of quality education, practical experience, and affordability, STLCC-Forest Park equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel as a registered dental hygienist in the vibrant St. Louis healthcare community.

Take the first step towards your dream career in dental hygiene – explore STLCC-Forest Park’s dental hygiene program today!