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
The impact created by Clayton State's Dental Health Clinic made the local news, as Lakers provided free dental services for all children ages 3-17 to celebrate Natl. Children's Dental Health Month.
Read more Dental Hygiene Clinic to serve youth for Children's Dental Health Month
In her final semester at Clayton State, senior Moriah Fulmer simply wants to assist as many as she can at the university’s dental hygiene clinic. With just months to go until commencement, the Covington native discusses her desire to leave an impact on all who come to her for aid, as well as why she believes the clinic provides a truly unique working environment.
Read more A Huge Blessing: Clayton State senior reflects on impact made at Dental Hygiene Center
On December 5, 2023, Clayton State’s Dental Hygiene department teamed up at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with TeamSmile and the Atlanta Falcons to provide aid to the community's kids.
Read more Dental Hygiene Lakers gift smiles to local children
Dental Hygiene Academic Programs