21+ Schools For Dental Hygienist In Georgia 2022-2023

Schools For Dental Hygienist In Georgia: If you want to study dental hygiene in GA, these schools have programs that will train you on how to become a dental hygienist.

Besides dental hygiene being one of the medical courses that gain the attention of many perspectives in Georgia, it is also one of the most rewarding courses.

However rewarding, being a dental hygienist will require you to undergo some series of training and licensing before you’re approved to become a dental hygienist in Georgia.

In that regard, prospective dental hygienists often look out for schools that have a track record of excellence in fashioning them out to be professionals.

Georgia is no exception to that discussion.

In Georgia, there are many schools ranked by many accredited University rankings that have programs to train prospective students on how to become a dental hygienist.

Dental hygiene schools in Georgia have programs that include information on how to perform procedures like prophylaxis, the application of topical anesthetic and fluoride, and the replacement and removal of oral sutures.

Through hands-on practicals, students get practical knowledge of the skills required to thrive in the dental space.

In that regard, we have summed up a list that will make you have an easy pick out of the pool of great Georgian schools.

Also in the guide, you will find other additional information on how to get your license to practice in Georgia as a dental hygienist.

But first, you have to go through a school. We have a long list below.

Welcome Aboard Scholar!!!

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An Overview of the Dental Hygiene Profession in Georgia

Dental hygienists in Georgia have a good ground for practice encouraging a lot of schools to offer the course.

Dental Hygiene is a career much in demand and requires skilled and trained professionals to play a significant role as a member of the dental team.

Though the scope of practice for dental hygienists is limited in Georgia, they still perform procedures and practice under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. 

To become a dental hygienist in Georgia there are three pathways to making that happen in the Peach State.

Either you take on an associate, a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. 

An associate degree prepares students for entry-level positions; however, bachelor’s and master’s degrees allow students to further their careers in administration, public health, research, or education.

Is Dental Hygiene A Good Career?

For a profession in the medical field with a 13% increase in demand by 2028, we say that dental hygiene is a good career. 

So if you’re wondering if it’s a good career with prospects then we say yes. 

But you should know that a dental hygienist helps dentists in performing various procedures on a patient’s mouth.

What Are the Requirements for Dental Hygienists in Georgia?

To become a Dental Hygienist in Georgia here are the requirements;

• Must complete at least a 2-year Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene at an institution recognized by CODA and by the Georgia Board of Dentistry.
• You must also pass a clinical exam with a score of 75 or higher. 
• Also, you must also get a score of 75 or higher in the National Board Exam.
• You are required to pass an open-book jurisprudence exam with a score of 75 or higher.

These make you eligible to become a dental hygienist in Georgia.

What Is the Job Description of A Dental Hygienist in Georgia?

Unlike in other states in the USA, the job description of a dental hygienist in Georgia is somewhat limited. 

The extent a dental hygienist can do in terms of job performance in Georgia are;

• Making dental casts.
• Perform dental screenings.
• Cleaning and polishing teeth.
• Perform tasks like prophylaxis.
• Administer sealants and fluoride.
• Replacement and removal of oral sutures
• Application of topical anesthetic and fluoride
• Supervision of dental hygienists by senior staff.
• Carryout placement and removal of periodontal bandages. 
• Educating patients on how to maintain good oral health.

Keep in mind that in Georgia, dental hygienists cannot diagnose or prescribe medications.

What is the Job Outlook for Dental Hygienists In Georgia?

Georgia is a promising state for dental hygienists.

According to the US Bureau of labor statistics, the demand for dental hygienists in Georgia is expected to grow by 13% by 2028. 

This can be traced to the fact that dental hygiene is one of the preventative dental care services that Georgians make the most use of. 

Also, by 2030, 20% of Georgia’s population will be above the age of 65. 

That means more teeth will slack and more dental hygienists needed.

This invariably means that if you’re looking to attend one of the best dental hygienist schools with exceptional programs to become practicing licensed personnel in Georgia, you are making the right decision.

What Courses Are In the Dental Hygienist Programs in Georgia?

Studying dental hygiene in Georgia schools will request you to undertake different courses at each level.

The courses you will take will depend on the program you are undertaking.

Majorly, the dental hygienist programs in Georgia schools include 

• Associate Degree
• Bachelor’s Degree 
• Master’s Degree level. 

Depending on the track you’re undertaking you will come across different courses as it suits your level of education.

Courses undertaken by dental hygienists in Georgia include

• Basic sciences: chemistry, biology, microbiology, anatomy, and physiology. 
• Specialty courses: dental anatomy, oral pathology, and community dental health. 
• Lab Skill Courses: Specific procedures performed by hygienists such as the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth. 
• Client Education: counseling and patient management classes. 
• Field Work: Clinical rotations to work with actual patients under the oversight of a practicing dentist.

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How Long Does it Take To Complete Dental Hygienist Programs in Dental Hygiene Schools in Georgia?

As we have earlier established, different programs are offered in dental hygienist schools in GA.

Depending on your program, the duration of study will differ. And also, your choice of an institution will determine how long it will take you to complete a degree in dental hygiene.

Students pursuing an Associate degree in Georgia dental hygiene schools should expect that it will take between 20 and 30 months to get their degree.

However, a bachelor’s program in dental hygienist schools will take four years to complete. First two years for general courses and the last two years for dental courses and practicals.

On the other hand, a Master’s degree program in dental hygiene schools in Georgia will take one to two years to complete. 

What’s the Tuition Cost Of Becoming A Dental Hygienist in Dental Hygienist Schools In GA?

Tuition cost is an important factor to consider when choosing a school of your choice in Georgia.

Depending on the school you apply to, the tuition cost may be higher or lower for a dental hygiene program.

Also, the program track you are applying to will also determine the cost of studies.

Getting an Associate degree in dental hygiene in Georgia schools will cost between $3,540 – $39,370.

A bachelor’s degree on the other hand will cost $16,420 at public schools and $72,010 at a private college or university.

A Master’s program in dental hygiene in Georgia will cost between $21,410 and $66,110.

Best Dental Hygienist Schools in Georgia

Without further ado, the following are the 21 dental Hygienist schools and their Programs In Georgia for 2022;

#1. Central Georgia Technical College, Warner Robins & Macon Campus

• Founded: 1953
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 2 Years
• Location: 3300 Macon Tech Dr, Macon, GA 

Central Georgia Technical College Department of dental hygiene offers one of the best hygienist programs in GA.

It’s considered one of the best because of its constant upgrade in curriculum, teaching, and consultation with prominent local dentists. 

You will require a total of 83 credits to complete an associate degree in dental hygiene at Central Georgia Technical College.

These credits will come from courses such as general education, anatomy, physiology, dental hygiene, lab sessions, and clinical training.

Upon completion, dental hygiene graduates can take the state and national licensure exams, get licensed and apply for entry-level positions as a dental hygienist.

#2. Clayton State University, Morrow

• Founded: 1969
• Program Offered: Bachelor’s Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 4 Years
• Location: 2000 Clayton State Blvd, Morrow, GA.

Clayton enlists in our list of best schools for dental hygienists in Georgia because of its affordability.

It’s one of the schools in Georgia that offers a bachelor’s degree program in dental hygiene.

Registered dental hygienists who have completed an associate degree can take the RDH-BSDH track. And it’s an online program that could be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. 

Dental students who attend Clayton State University are sure to have enhanced communication, critical thinking and decision-making ability.

Also, students can take the dual degree option: Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management + Dental Hygiene. 

#3. West Georgia Technical College, Waco

• Founded: 1966
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 2 Years
• Location: 1 College Circle, 1302 Orchard Hill Rd, LaGrange, GA. 

One of the best schools for dental hygienists in Georgia with programs that suit almost all prospective students is the West Georgia Technical College.

At West Georgia Technical College, students learn under the guidance of experienced and qualified mentors with the latest curriculum.

Graduating with an associate degree will require you to complete a total of 86 credits to be equipped to work as an entry-level dental hygienist upon graduation.

Courses you will have to take include; basic sciences, oral specialty courses, dental materials, dental radiology, pharmacology and pain control, community dental health, periodontology, and nutrition fundamentals. 

#4. Savannah Technical College, Savannah

• Founded: 1929
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 2 Years
• Location: 5717 White Bluff Rd, Savannah, GA. 

Savannah Technical College offers a dental hygiene program in one of the biggest state-of-the-art facilities with dedicated faculty facilitating learning and producing positive academic outcomes.

At Savannah Technical College you get to study for five semesters to complete 83 credit hours to earn an associate degree.

Courses covered include basic sciences, specialty, and dental hygiene courses.

Students are trained to be efficient which shows in the ease at which they pass the national and state licensing exams to practice and become dental hygienist in Georgia.

#5. Dental College of Georgia Augusta University, Augusta

• Founded: 1828
• Program Offered: BS-DH Degree and the BSc with a Major in Dental Hygiene.
• Duration of Program Offered: 2 years and 4 Years 
• Location: 1120 15th St, Augusta, GA 30912. 

Augusta University is actually the one dental school in Georgia making it one of the best schools for dental hygienist in the country.

The university offers 2 types of BSc degrees for dental hygiene where students are trained in oral care, education, research and sales, and management.

The BSc with a Major in Dental Hygiene is a four-year course for students with no foundation in dental hygiene. It requires 50, 60, and 65 credit units in the first, second and last two years of the study to complete.

On the other hand, the online BS-DH Degree is for those who have an associate degree in dental hygiene. 

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#6. Atlanta Technical College, Atlanta

• Founded: 1967
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 2 Years
• Location: 1560 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA. 

Next on our list of dental hygienist schools with exceptional well-cut programs is the Atlanta Technical College.

Atlanta Technical College executes its studies in dental hygiene through well-bred lectures that train students to become qualified dental hygienists in Georgia and beyond.

With the closeness of the online campus, the students can easily access real-life situations that will groom them effectively.

At Atlanta Technical College, students get to apply for an associate degree which requires a total of 84 credits.

Majorly, the college covers courses such as basic sciences,  oral anatomy, dental materials, dental radiology, oral pathology, nutritional fundamentals, periodontology, and community dental health. 

#7. Athens Technical College, Athens

• Founded: 1987
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 2 Years
• Location: 800 US-29, Athens, GA.

Athens Technical College is one of the best dental hygienist schools in Georgia. 

The curriculum of the Athens Technical College makes students job-ready upon graduation. 

Dental Hygienist Programs offered in this Georgia school is an associate degree requiring 49 credits in dental hygiene courses, 12 in behavioral and biological sciences, and 22 in general education courses.

This college not only trains you on how to become a dental hygienist in Georgia, it also helps you master the professional and ethical skills to promote the dental health of patients. 

#8. Lanier Technical College, Gainesville

• Founded: 1964
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 21 Months
• Location: 2535 Lanier Tech Dr, Gainesville. GA. 

If you’re looking for a dental hygiene school that prepares you academically, technically, and clinically with the right knowledge and skills then Lanier Technical College should be on your consideration list.

Students who graduate from Lanier Technical College can start off work as an entry-level staff. 

The associate degree Lanier Technical College offers upon completion requires 38 credits.

#9. Columbus Technical College, Columbus

• Founded: 1963
• Program Offered: Associate Degree
• Duration of Program Offered: 5 Semesters
• Location: 928 Manchester Expy, Columbus, GA. 

In the list of Georgia dental hygiene schools, Columbus Technical College is listed as one of the colleges with programs that will train you on how to become a dental hygienist.

With the small class sizes, students have access to direct mentorship and thorough attention in the latest lab facilities.

Courses for dental hygiene at Columbus Technical College include psychology, sociology, communication, anatomy of the mouth, neck, and head, dental and radiology, pharmacology and pain control, nutrition, periodontics, oral pathology, and community dental health. 

#10. Georgia Highlands College, Rome

• Founded: 1970
• Program Offered: Associate Degree and RDH to BSDH
• Duration of Program Offered: 5 Semesters.
• Location: 3175 Cedartown Hwy, Rome, GA. 

Georgia Highland College’s dental hygiene department offers two types of dental hygiene programs, an associate degree, and an RDH to BSDH completion program.

In its on-campus dental clinic students get to practice and perform oral hygiene procedures on a diverse patient population.

As peculiar as this college is, its associate degree program only admits 14 students each year

Its RDH to BSDH Completion Program on the other hand is for registered dental hygienists who have completed their associate degree and are looking for career advancement.

Other Schools for Dental Hygienist in Georgia With Great Programs

• Darton State College
• Fortis College-Smyrna
• Albany State University
• Georgia Highlands College
• Central Georgia Technical College
• Georgia State University-Perimeter College

Dental Hygiene School Comparison Chart

School Name	Dental Hygiene Degrees Offered	Tuition and Fees
Central Georgia Technical College	Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,778 Out-of-State: $4,914
Clayton State University	Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $5,419 Out-of-State: $15,880
West Georgia Technical College	Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,838 Out-of-State: $4,974
Savannah Technical College	Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,744 Out-of-State: $4,880
Augusta University	Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene – Online Completion Program	In-state: $4,432.00 Out-of-State: $14,189.00
Atlanta Technical College	Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $100/credit hour Out-of-State: $200/credit hour
Athens Technical College	Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,798 Out-of-State: $4,934
Lanier Technical College	Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $100/credit hour Out-of-State: $200/credit hour
Columbus Technical College	Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,136 Out-of-State: $4,272
Georgia Highlands College	Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene, Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene online program	In-state: $95/credit hour Out-of-State: $359.67/credit
Albany State University	Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $5,735 Out-of-State: $16,196
Perimeter College of Georgia State University	Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $3,304 Out-of-State: $9,501
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College	Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,838 Out-of-State: $4,974
Southeastern Technical College	Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene	In-state: $2,284 Out-of-State: $4,324

Where Can I Work As A Dental Hygienist in Georgia?

Out of the 5,690 employed dental hygienists in Georgia, 5,400.work in dentist offices for other dentists.

However, their job does not just limit them to a dentist’s office.

70 dental hygienists in Georgia work with federal, state, and county governments. 

Another 50 partners with physician practices to perform their jobs.

Other places you can find a dental hygienist are correctional institutions and community clinics.

How Much Do Dental Hygienists in Georgia Earn?

The average salary of a dental hygienist in Georgia is $66,330 a year. Since most hygienists are affiliated with a dental office, their benefits packages vary according to what their bosses want to offer. Many dental hygienists work 20 hours or less, which may make them ineligible for benefits.

However, depending on your level of experience, this amount may go way higher or lower.

For instance, dental hygienists in the entry-level positions earn about $43,840 per year while those with 1-4 years experience earn $54,110, 5-9 years earn $65,540, 10-19 years earn about $80,830, and 20 years or more level of experience earns $93,560.

Dental Hygienist Salary in Georgia	Per Year		Per Hour
Top-level Dental Hygienist Salary in GA	$86,280		$41.48
Senior-level Hygienist Salary in GA	$77,420		$37.22
Mid-level Dental Hygienist Salary in GA	$66,330		$31.89
Junior-level Dental Hygienist Salary in GA	$25.48		$53,000
Starting level Dental Hygienist Salary in GA	$43,250		$20.79

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Type	Salary
Hourly	$31.89
Monthly	$5,530
Annual	$66,330
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Salary Based on Years of Experience

Years of Experience	Hourly	Monthly	Annual
Less than 1 year (Starting)	$21.08	$3,650	$43,840
1-4 years	$26.01	$4,510	$54,110
5-9 years	$31.51	$5,460	$65,540
10-19 years	$38.86	$6,740	$80,830
20 years or more	$44.98	$7,800	$93,560
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

How to become a dental hygienist in Georgia

To become a Dental Hygienist in Georgia you must complete at least a 2-year Associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene at an institution recognized by CODA and by the Georgia Board of Dentistry. You must also pass a clinical exam with a score of 75 or higher.

Frequently Asked Questions About Schools For Dental Hygienist In Georgia

Does Georgia State University have a dental hygiene program?

Yes, Georgia state university has a Dental Hygiene program that provides an intensive study and general education on the course.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Dental Hygienist in GA?

At least, it takes 2 years to become an Associate’s degree holder in Dental Hygiene in Georgia.

How Do I Become A Dental Hygienist?

To become a dental hygienist in Georgia, you must first pass through any of the accredited dental hygiene schools in Georgia or any city.

A degree is a first step to become a dental hygienist in Georgia. 

Following through is the passing of the licensure exams.

Once you pass, you’re free to practice or become a dental hygienist in Georgia.

What Major Is Best For A Dental Hygienist?

There are many areas of specialty in dental school. 

Applying to become a dental hygienist will also need you to specialize.

85% of dental hygienists major in Dental Assisting. Others major in Biology and Health Sciences And Services.

Your choice will depend on the career path you choose.

How Much Do Dental Assistants Make?

Dental assistants in Georgia make $46,000 on the average in a year. 

However, Dental assistants with 1-3 years’ experience earn between $46,000 and $55,000.

Where Do Dental Hygienists Get Paid The Most?

Compared to other states in the US, Georgia dental hygienists do not earn much.

Here are the top five states that pay dental hygienists well;

• Alaska — $115,050.
• California — $109,970.
• Washington — $95,450.
• Nevada — $89,360.
• New Jersey — $88,150.

Why Shouldn’t I Be A Dental Hygienist?

Every job has its downsides that make it less appealing or not good to many perspectives considering it.

Dental hygiene has that downside as well. 

While cleaning and examining teeth may be like an adventurous journey clearing plaques and Tartars it’s not all there is.

Although being a dental hygienist leads to a desirable career invariably a good salary, some who have been in the profession say that the repetitiveness, physical demand and discomfort that come with the role makes it discomforting.

If you can take in all of those, then being a dental hygienist would be just like another appealing job as described by another.

How Many Dental Hygienists are Currently Employed in GA?

Currently, there are 5,690 employed dental hygienists in Georgia.

5,400.work in dentist offices, 70 work with federal, state and county governments and the other 50 partner with physician practices to perform their jobs.

What Useful Dental Hygienist Organizations & Associations in Georgia Can I Join?

If you become a dental hygienist in Georgia, it’s good you reckon with a community of like minds.

This keeps you abreast with the latest happenings and the new trends in the industry.

One of the recommended useful dental hygienist organizations & associations in Georgia is the Georgia Dental Hygienists’ Association (GDHA).

Becoming a member of the Georgia Dental Hygienists Association entitles you to a subscription to the Journal of Dental Hygiene as well as access to continuing education classes and an active job board.

We believe this article answers your questions about schools for dental hygienists in Georgia.

Carefully make a pick based on your educational needs and consider the cost before you send in your application.

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References

• https://dentalassistantedu.org/dh/ga/ 
• https://www.nursingprocess.org/dental-hygiene-programs/georgia/ 
• https://www.universities.com/find/georgia/best/dental-hygiene-hygienist-degrees