The Dental Hygienist is an integral member of the dental team who works together with the dentist to meet the oral health needs of each patient. The MSU-Great Falls College of Technology Dental Hygiene Program provides the knowledge and skills necessary for the dental hygienist to provide direct patient dental care.

General and specialty dentists employ most dental hygienists, but some may be employed in research, education and public health care settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, & public health clinics.

Flexible scheduling is a distinctive feature of this job. Dentists frequently hire hygienists to work only 2 or 3 days a week, so hygienists may hold jobs in more than one dental office.

Population growth and greater retention of natural teeth will stimulate the demand for dental health care professionals.

Upon receipt of the Associate of Applied Science degree, successful completion of the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination is required. The graduate will also need to obtain a license for the state he/she wishes to practice in by successfully completing a regional practical examination (WREB). The dental hygienist must practice in accordance with the requirements of the individual state practice acts and abide by requirements to maintain licensure.

The MSU-Great Falls College of Technology’s Dental Hygiene Program is a limited enrollment program, accepting 14 students each year.

Interested students are urged to contact Student Services and the Allied Health Department for student advising specific to admission requirements and criteria for program acceptance. To contact them, call (406) 771-4414 or go to the website informational resources listed below.