Studying Dental Hygiene at Calhoun

A registered dental hygienist (RDH) is a licensed dental professional whose primary role is providing preventive oral healthcare and patient education.  As a member of the dental team, the RDH is responsible for reviewing and recording a patient’s health and dental history, exposing x-rays, and removing calculus, plaque, and stains from the teeth. The hygienist also provides preventive services such as applying sealants, fluoride, and desensitizing agents as well as taking impressions of teeth and fabricating whitening materials. 

The dental hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation ensuring a high standard of education. For details, visit CODA’s website.

Program Information

Application Information

Dental Hygiene program applications will open Spring 2027!
Application Points System
Register for Accuplacer Exam
Eligibility Criteria
Health Science Student Requirements

Learn more about Dental Hygiene!

Faculty host four information sessions each year. They are 60-90 minutes in length and provide an overview of the program and review the application process. Registration is not required. All interested persons are invited. Participants who sign the attendance roster receive application points. If you are unable to attend a Dental Hygiene Information Session because you live out of the area, please contact the program.

All sessions meet in the Health Sciences Building on the Decatur campus and will take place in room 202 beginning at 4:00 pm.

Dental Hygiene Information Sessions

*All sessions are held on Calhoun’s Decatur Campus in the Health Science Building, room 203 at 4:00 PM

October 20, 2026
November 17, 2026
February 9, 2027
April 6, 2027

Dental Hygiene Clinic

The Dental Hygiene Clinic at Calhoun Community College is open to the public and welcomes adults and
children of all ages. Please call 256-306-2815 or email katie.pinion@calhoun.edu for your appointment.

The Dental Hygiene Clinic is a teaching facility dedicated to improving oral health in the people of our community. Many students enrolled in the program are bilingual and dedicated to helping all patients feel welcome and informed about their health. All care is supervised by a licensed dentist and dental hygienist.

Patients are seen for dental hygiene services by appointment only. Clinic days and appointment time vary by semester.

Because you are being treated by a student, all appointments are scheduled for approximately 3 hours. In exchange for longer appointment times, the services are provided at deeply discounted fees. Safety concerns prevent children from being present in the clinic unless undergoing treatment. Please make arrangements for off-campus childcare during your appointment.

Clinic Services Provided in the Dental Hygiene Clinic:

Dental cleanings
Treatment of gingivitis
Treatment of periodontitis (deep cleaning)
Dental x-rays
Sealants
Fluoride treatments
Oral cancer screening
Chemotherapeutics
Tooth whitening

Your Degree Options

Your Path To An Entry Level Position
Dental Hygiene (A.A.S)

This program offers training in preventive oral healthcare, preparing students to become licensed dental hygienists. Students gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting, working directly with patients to provide essential oral health services.

Dental Hygiene (A.A.S)

Explore Regional Careers & Salaries

Discover various career opportunities in the dental field, from dental assisting to dental hygiene. Research job titles, expected salaries, and local job openings based on the programs offered at Calhoun.