Dental Hygiene
Dental hygienists are licensed health care professionals who promote oral health and wellness. Dental hygienists educate patients, regarding oral hygiene and preventive oral care.
Hygienists remove plaque, calculus and stains from teeth; expose and develop dental X-rays; and apply cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides and pit and fissure sealants. In some states, they also administer local anesthetics and nitrous oxide; place and carve filling materials, temporary fillings, and periodontal dressings; remove sutures and perform root-planing.
Hygienists may not diagnose diseases, but they can prepare clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests for the dentist to interpret. Hygienists may also work chairside with the dentist during treatment.
Latest Headlines
Clayton State Dental Hygiene Students Promote Oral Health Education During National Children’s Dental Health Month
Dental hygiene students at Clayton State University are giving back to the community through hands-on outreach as we mark National Children’s Dental Health Month in February.
CSU Dental Hygiene Faculty Among Georgia’s First Certified in Laser Therapy
Clayton State University’s Department of Dental Hygiene is proud to announce that ten faculty members have completed advanced training to become among the state’s first certified providers in laser therapy, making CSU the first of Georgia’s 15 dental hygiene programs to reach this milestone.
Read more CSU Dental Hygiene Faculty Among Georgia’s First Certified in Laser Therapy
Clayton State University Dental Hygiene Students Take First Place in “Run for Dentistry”
Clayton State University’s Dental Hygiene students showcased their school spirit and commitment to community health by taking first place at the Dental Dash at Dawn 5K, held on November 8, 2025.
Read more Clayton State University Dental Hygiene Students Take First Place in “Run for Dentistry”
Dental Hygiene Academic Programs
