Dental Hygiene - A.S. Program

What does a dental hygienist do?

The dental hygienist is a licensed member of the dental health team, dedicated to helping patients maintain good oral health and preventing dental disease.  Although the tasks performed by a hygienist vary from state to state, the main one are:

• Removing calculus and biofilm plaque (hard and soft deposits) above and below the gum-line
• Assessing and charting the teeth and oral structures
• Exposing, processing, and labeling dental radiographs
• Providing oral hygiene instructions
• Providing dietary analysis and counseling services
• Applying cavity-prevention agents, such as fluoride and sealants
• Working with special population groups such as the elderly and the mentally or physically handicapped
• Performing the Expanded Functions legally allowable in Florida 

WHY CHOOSE GULF COAST STATE COLLEGE TO EARN YOUR A.S. degree in dental hygiene?

• If you haven’t already been to Gulf Coast’s Panama City campus, you should know that we’re located right on the Gulf Coast shoreline, with many great views of the water. Schedule a campus tour.
• Gulf Coast State College’s dental programs also have an on site, state of the art dental clinic.
• Our dental faculty care deeply about your career success and will help you through the rough spots along the way. They are your advocates, and after graduation, your professional colleagues.