This article aims to introduce the highly in-demand Dental Hygiene program offered by Fanshawe College.

According to the Job Market and Employment Survey conducted by The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), the approximate unemployment rate for dental hygienists is 1%, which is below the current Canadian unemployment rate of 5.5% as of June 2019. The average hourly wage of dental hygienists across all provinces and territories has risen slightly each year since 2013 (average hourly rate is $43.40 in 2019). Moreover, more than three quarters (84%) of dental hygienists receive employee benefits. Comparatively speaking, a dental hygienist is a stable job with great benefits.

The Dental Hygiene program provided by Fanshawe College is a three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma Program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. As the most competitive program offered by Fanshawe, only 17% of applicants can find a seat in this oversubscribed program.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, some schools moved all the courses to online teaching platforms to ensure safety and convenience to both instructors and students. However, for those practical programs that need more on-site training and hands-on experience, the quality of learning might suffer. To maximize students’ study outcomes, Fanshawe College decided to keep the Dental Hygiene program delivery through online and lab-based classes, all while strictly following the health and safety protocols and procedures.

Although the shadow of Covid-19 is still hanging over us, Fanshawe College continues to invest in facilities that will support deeper learning. This December (2020), a new state-of-the-art dental clinic will be available to students, with a dental radiography suite including the latest digital radiography. With high-tech equipment, dental students can learn the dynamic skills needed to clean teeth, take x-rays, and promote oral health.

Fanshawe’s Dental Hygiene program will provide students with sufficient knowledge and practical experience to attend the National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination. The 100% graduate pass rate on the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB) examination is a strong testimony of Fanshawe College’s top position in the dental hygiene field. Moreover, graduates from this three-year program are also eligible for registration by the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario. Graduates can start a career as a dental hygienist in either general or specialized dentistry.

In addition to starting practice after graduation, pursuing a higher degree is also a common pathway for students. With the flexible and multiple options offered by Fanshawe College, students are allowed to transfer credits towards a higher degree, such as a Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene or Bachelor of Public Health at top universities like the University of British Columbia and Brock University.

“I highly recommend Fanshawe's Dental Hygiene program as I have found the instructors to be very knowledgeable, approachable and caring. I am certain that the clinical experience and guidance I have received will lead me to a successful and rewarding career!”----Erika Leslie (Graduate 2016).

Thinking of applying for Fanshawe College’s Dental Hygiene program? Visit Global Study Guide to get more information about the campuses and student life at Fanshawe College!