The best dental hygiene schools in Wisconsin have certain requirements to get in. You can increase your chances of getting in if you keep your eyes open for the right information like this.
The smile on someone’s face is significant. Equally vital are those who contribute to its protection.
As a dental hygienist, you will be a part of a dental health team, focused on the examination, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and documentation of dental illness and the prevention of dental disease.
Students in Wisconsin who want to become dental hygienists can pick from a variety of Dental Hygiene schools in Wisconsin.
The programs taught in Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin typically last two to three years and include general education courses. Skills are acquired both in the classroom and in labs.
Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin provide practical training opportunities through clinical experiences or in an on-campus clinic.
Are there Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin?
Many Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin offer associate’s degrees in Dental Hygiene programs.
The Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin prepare you for your national board exam and job as a dental hygienist or other dental professional at the entry level.
The general education courses needed to finish the degree are included in the programs, along with dental coursework and practical clinical training.
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How Much Does Dental Hygiene Schools Cost in Wisconsin?
The cost of Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin varies from school to school. The length of this program also determines. While some schools run 4 semesters, others run 5 to 6 semesters for an associate degree in Dental Hygiene, depending on the program structure.
The projected program cost of Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin may include some textbook expenses, training materials, practical laboratory materials, etc.
Studying the Dental Hygiene program in any Dental Hygiene school in Wisconsin costs between $16,000 on average.
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What are the Requirements for Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin?
Requirements vary from school to school, but Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin generally have set conditions that must be met before you can enrol for the program.
After completion of required prerequisite courses. Their requirements include;
- Application; the fee depends on the school.
- High school transcript
- Background check
- Orientation
- Pre-Entrance physical examination and health history.
- Petition
- Dental examination and CPR certification.
What are the Best Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin?
Below are the top Dental Hygiene Schools in Wisconsin to consider if you are planning to become a Dental Hygienist.
1. Madison Area Technical College
Leading dentists in Madison, Wisconsin, highly regard the dental hygienist program.
Students develop top skills from their hands-on experience at the on-campus dental clinic, which serves real patients from the area.
Students in the Dental Hygienist program must attend full-time.
Classes are offered Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.
2. Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
A uniform, instruments, and any other costs (including travel) associated with clinical experiences must be purchased by students.
Students will be required to submit immunization documentation. For this service, a fee is required.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Tuition: $11,270, Books: $1,345, Supplies: $2,750. Total Approximate Costs $15,365.
The associate degree program is fully eligible for financial aid.
The American Dental Association-Commission accredits the Dental Hygienist program on Dental Accreditation.
3. Northcentral Technical College
A competitive admissions process is used for the Dental Hygienist program. You enrol in this health program’s core classes through the petition process.
The petition process happens each spring. To begin the process you will need to complete the online form
Next petition form available: Monday, March 6, 2023 – Friday, March 17, 2023, for a Fall 2023 start.
Students will be mailed a letter outlining admission status and the next steps.
4. Fox Valley Technical College
At its campus in Appleton, Fox Valley Technical College provides a 70-credit associate’s degree programme in dental hygiene.
The technical studies curriculum covers topics including dental hygiene procedures, pathology, dental pain management, dental hygiene ethics, and community dental health, while the general studies curriculum includes courses on microbiology and biochemistry.
The American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation (ADA) has granted the Fox Valley Technical College Dental Hygiene associate degree program accreditation, making graduates eligible to take the Central Regional Dental Testing Center (CRDTS) practical exam and have their program completion recognized in all 50 states of the United States.
5. Milwaukee Area Technical College, Downtown.
Students at MATC can get discounted preventative dental care. A variety of preventative care services are provided, like cleaning, x-rays, fluoride treatments, and sealant applications.
Under the supervision of dental hygiene faculty members and a supervising licensed dentist, services are provided by dental hygiene students.
Please be advised that dental hygiene students may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens, which may include pathogenic microorganisms present in human blood and capable of causing diseases like Hepatitis HBV, Herpes, Tuberculosis, and HIV. Inquire with the Dental Hygiene Program for a copy of the Bloodborne Pathogen policy.
6. Chippewa Valley Technical College.
With this program, you can learn both in the classroom and on the job at the CVTC Dental Clinic.
This course will prepare you to pass the national, regional, and state practical tests necessary to obtain your dental hygienist license, and the Commission accredits it on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.
It is a 70-credit associate degree with a length of Two years. The program normally starts in August every year. The estimated total cost of this program is $16,906.
7. Blackhawk Technical College.
Before program entrance, a background check is necessary. The associate degree program runs for 4 semesters with a total of 66 credits score.
The College has Flexible Learning Options for students to better meet their needs. Application for program accreditation in dental hygiene at Blackhawk Technical College is underway.
The estimated total cost of this program is $11,216.
8. Gateway Technical College, Kenosha.
The 35 credits Dental Hygiene program of Gateway Technical College has great flexibility for students. With online choices for basic education and elective courses.
There are only four seats available each year, i.e two in the fall and spring semesters, respectively. Milwaukee Area Technical College jointly offers the Dental Hygiene associate degree programme.
Additionally, graduates who choose to do so must pass the HESI-A2 exam with a score of at least 80%.
9. Marian University
By enrolling in Marian University’s 100% online dental hygiene bachelor’s degree completion program, working dental hygienists can develop their professions and broaden their skills and knowledge.
The bachelor’s program in dental hygiene offered online is made to allow working adults the freedom to continue working while pursuing their education.
Students can further customize their timetable by enrolling full- or part-time.
10. Waukesha County Technical College.
The Dental Hygiene program requires multiple vaccinations, including COVID-19 and flu shots. The application is online with an application fee of $30.
The start date is usually August each year, and the program duration is more than two years.
A 69-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded at the end of the program.
How Much Do Dental Hygienists Make in Wisconsin?
Multiple factors, including prior experience, and age, will affect career outcomes and earnings.
Salary ranges for Dental Hygienists can vary greatly based on a variety of significant factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience(Entry-level, Mid-level and Experienced).
In Wisconsin, a dental hygienist makes an average hourly wage of $39.80 and $73,900 per annum.
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How Do I Become a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin?
To become a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin, you must pass through these four steps:
- Recognise the role
You must understand the role of a Dental Hygienist in assisting patients in maintaining good oral health.
Dental Hygienist roles are different from dental assistant and also that of a dentist.
- Educate Yourself / Obtain knowledge
You must obtain a college degree in Dental Hygiene. An associate degree from a university recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation is the very minimum level of education needed to become a dental hygienist.
Students can only be eligible to take the national dental hygiene exam at institutions that have received accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
- Pass the board exams to earn a license.
Dental hygienists must be licensed to work in Wisconsin. Visit the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services to learn how of getting a license.
- Look for employment as a dental hygienist
Find your first job after receiving your degree and becoming a certified dental hygienist.
Best Paying Dental Hygiene Jobs in Wisconsin with Salary
There are multiple job vacancies in the field of Dental Hygienists, below are some of the best-paying Dental Hygiene jobs from top companies in Wisconsin and their wages;
Dental Connections
$61.81 per hour
Fox Creek Family Dental
$60.32 per hour
Western Dental Services
$57.80 per hour
Smiles by Design
$55.57 per hour
Advanced Dentistry
$54.46 per hour
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Frequently Ask Questions:
Yes, you can work while at dental hygiene school, although it might be difficult to mix employment and classes because of the demanding curriculum. Many students advise only working a few hours per week. Since every student is different, discuss how to balance your classes, study time, and any employment needs with your program advisor.
A doctorate in dentistry, such as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry, is the highest degree you may obtain in the field (DMD).
By obtaining a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, dental hygienists with bachelor’s degrees can move into the field of dentistry.
Becoming a dental hygienist typically takes two to four years. It could be possible to transfer credits from earlier college courses to reduce the time needed to finish.
It can be tough but gratifying to work as a dental hygienist. Organizational abilities, communication abilities, soft skills, and problem-solving abilities are necessary to earn a degree in dental hygiene.
You will put these abilities to use as a qualified dental hygienist as you assist patients in maintaining good oral health.
In a general sense, a dental hygienist and a dental assistant play distinct roles within a dental practice. A dental assistant primarily assists dentists directly during various procedures and might have the responsibility to conduct minor tasks like taking x-rays or assisting with small treatments under the dentist’s guidance. On the other hand, a dental hygienist’s role revolves around working closely with patients, conducting thorough teeth cleanings, and carrying out oral examinations, often with a greater degree of autonomy and independence, requiring minimal or no direct supervision.
Conclusion
For people who enjoy working with their hands and with patients daily, the profession of dental hygiene is expanding and offers a well-paying, fulfilling career path.
Wisconsin offers various schools and training programs for people who want to work in dental hygiene.
You can also read – Best Dental Hygiene Schools in South Carolina | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply
References
- Bestaccreditedcolleges.org – Dental Hygienist Schools in Wisconsin with Program Overviews.
- Learn.org – Which Dental Hygiene Schools Are in Wisconsin.
- Dentalassistantedu.org – Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin.