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
Dental Hygiene Student Researchers Earn First Place at GDHA Research Day
Clayton State University Dental Hygiene students proudly represented the program at the Georgia Dental Hygienist Association – GDHA Research Day, where they presented original research highlighting evidence-based practice and clinical relevance in dental hygiene.
Read more Dental Hygiene Student Researchers Earn First Place at GDHA Research Day
Clayton State University announces a $14.5 million renovation to modernize the home of the College of Health
Clayton State University celebrated an exciting milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of the Harry S. Downs building. University leaders, students, Georgia State legislators and healthcare community partners participated in a ceremonial wall break using sledgehammers, marking the official start of the $14.5 million renovation to modernize the home of the College of Health.
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.
Dental Hygiene Academic Programs
