Dental Hygiene

Program Overview

The Dental Hygiene program at Fanshawe College is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel as dental hygienists. This program emphasizes a client-centered model of care, focusing on preventive oral health services. Students will learn to perform various tasks such as cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and promoting overall oral health. With a blend of academic learning and hands-on clinical practice, this program prepares graduates for a rewarding career that significantly impacts individuals' health and wellness.

Program Structure

The Dental Hygiene program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a 90-week duration. Key features of the program include:

• Combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills through hands-on training.
• Access to a state-of-the-art oral health clinic and dental radiography suite.
• Community placements and oral health promotion activities in various settings.
• Supportive mentoring environment with experienced faculty.

Students will engage in a variety of learning experiences, including seminars, case studies, and clinical practice, all aimed at developing a professional commitment to quality assurance and continued competency. The program is designed to prepare students for the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB) examination upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

• Hands-on clinical experience in a newly renovated public dental clinic.
• Utilization of modern dental manikin simulators for skill development.
• Learning decontamination and sterilization processes in a dedicated sterilization center.
• Community placements in daycare centers, public schools, hospitals, and healthcare settings.
• High graduate pass rates on the NDHCB exam, with a notable 100% pass rate in May 2025.

Career Options

Graduates of the Dental Hygiene program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Dental Hygienist: Provide professional patient care and promote oral health strategies.
• Dental Health Educator: Promote oral health education in communities across Ontario.
• Dental Office Manager: Oversee the operations of a dental practice, ensuring efficient workflow.
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Market dental products and services to healthcare professionals.
• Public Health Administrator: Manage public health programs focused on oral health initiatives.

These roles allow graduates to work independently or collaboratively with other health professionals in diverse settings, including private practices, educational institutions, and public health programs.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.