Dental Hygiene and Therapy Degree Guide

Dental hygiene and therapy are rewarding healthcare careers focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases.

Professionals in these roles play a vital part in improving patients' oral and overall health, working closely with dentists and often taking on independent clinical responsibilities.

If you're considering studying dental hygiene or therapy, this guide will help you understand how to train in the UK and how the profession compares in other parts of the world.

Studying Dental Hygiene and Therapy in the UK

In the UK, Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists are registered professionals regulated by the General Dental Council (GDC). Training routes can vary depending on the level of qualification and whether students pursue hygiene only or a combined hygiene and therapy programme.

Course Structure:

• Most UK universities and dental schools offer a Diploma or BSc (Hons) in Dental Hygiene and Therapy, typically lasting three years.

• Some institutions offer standalone qualifications in Dental Hygiene over two years.

• Courses combine academic modules, clinical skills training, and supervised patient care in dental hospitals or outreach clinics.

What You'll Learn:

• Oral anatomy and physiology

• Periodontal therapy

• Restorative dentistry

• Radiography

• Health promotion and disease prevention

• Communication and patient management

Dental Therapists are trained to carry out a wider range of procedures than hygienists, including fillings, extractions of baby teeth, and treatment of children.

Entry Requirements:

• A-levels or equivalent, often including Biology or a science subject.

• GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science.

• A successful interview, health screening, and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

• Experience in a dental setting (paid or voluntary) is often encouraged.

Funding:

• Eligible students in England may apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund, offering a £5,000 non-repayable grant per year.

• Tuition and maintenance loans are also available through Student Finance.

After Graduation:

• Graduates must register with the GDC before practising.

• Career opportunities include working in NHS or private dental practices, community dental services, and educational or public health settings.

• Some graduates go on to teach or pursue postgraduate training in areas such as sedation or radiography.

Studying Dental Hygiene and Therapy in Europe

Across Europe, the structure and regulation of dental hygiene and therapy vary widely, especially when it comes to the scope of practice.

General Overview:

• Many countries offer diploma or degree-level training, often lasting two to four years.

• Some countries distinguish between dental hygienists and dental therapists, while others offer combined training.

• Programmes may be delivered in vocational colleges, technical institutes, or universities, depending on the country.

• Language requirements are an important consideration, particularly for clinical placements.

Examples:

• Ireland: Offers three-year BSc degrees in Dental Hygiene (e.g. at Trinity College Dublin or University College Cork), regulated by the Dental Council of Ireland.

• Sweden and the Netherlands: Offer well-developed dental hygiene programmes, some with English-language options.

• Germany, France, and Spain: Typically require native language fluency; dental hygiene is more limited in scope and less commonly combined with therapy training.

Before applying, ensure the qualification will be recognised in your intended country of practice.

Studying Dental Hygiene and Therapy in Australia and New Zealand

Both Australia and New Zealand offer high-quality, university-based dental hygiene and therapy education with modern facilities and clinical training.

Australia:

• Offers both Bachelor of Oral Health and Advanced Diploma programmes, often combining dental hygiene and therapy in one qualification.

• Courses are usually three years and accredited by the Australian Dental Council (ADC).

• Graduates register with the Dental Board of Australia, under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

• Programmes include significant clinical placement, public health training, and an emphasis on rural and community care.

New Zealand:

• Offers a Bachelor of Oral Health at institutions such as the University of Otago, combining training in both hygiene and therapy.

• Regulated by the Dental Council of New Zealand, with strict accreditation and licensing standards.

• Strong focus on health promotion and access to care, including work with Māori and Pacific Island communities.

Both countries offer clear registration pathways and growing demand for oral health professionals.

Studying Dental Hygiene and Therapy in Canada

In Canada, Dental Hygienists are regulated health professionals, while Dental Therapy as a distinct role has historically been more limited and is now undergoing redevelopment in some provinces.

Education Pathway:

• Dental Hygiene programmes are offered at colleges and universities, typically lasting two to three years for diplomas or four years for bachelor’s degrees.

• Programmes are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).

• Most provinces require graduates to pass a licensing exam administered by the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB).

Dental Therapy in Canada:

• Historically provided in underserved and Indigenous communities, dental therapy education was suspended nationally but is currently being restructured through new community-based models.

• Saskatchewan and some northern regions are exploring updated therapy programmes to expand access to care.

Canada has strong public and private job markets for dental hygienists, especially in preventative and community care.

Studying Dental Hygiene and Therapy in the USA

In the USA, Dental Hygienists are licensed professionals with a clearly defined scope of practice, but Dental Therapy is still emerging and not yet widely recognised across all states.

Dental Hygiene Pathway:

• Programmes are offered as Associate degrees (2 years), Bachelor’s degrees (4 years), or Master’s degrees for advanced practice or teaching roles.

• Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

• Students must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and meet state-specific licensing requirements.

• Scope of practice varies by state, with some states allowing independent practice and expanded functions.

Dental Therapy in the USA:

• Recognised in a limited number of states (e.g. Minnesota, Alaska, Washington), typically to expand access in underserved areas.

• Requires additional training, usually at the bachelor's or master’s level.

• Regulated at the state level, and still under policy development nationwide.

Final Thoughts

Dental hygiene and therapy are meaningful, people-focused careers that combine science, clinical skill, and public health. In the UK, training is structured, hands-on, and highly respected, offering a clear path to registration and employment. If you're considering studying abroad, countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada offer strong programmes and career prospects. In Europe and the USA, the profession is evolving, with variations in recognition, scope, and regulation.

When choosing where to study, consider:

• Whether you want to train in hygiene only or a combined hygiene and therapy role

• Scope of practice in your target country

• Course structure, placement opportunities, and accreditation

• Costs, funding options, and language requirements

Whichever path you take, a career in dental hygiene or therapy offers the chance to improve health outcomes and make a lasting impact on patients' lives.