In addition to the academic admission requirements for students entering the Dental Hygiene Program, the following mental and physical functions are also expected of all students with or without accommodations:
- Critical thinking ability
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Gross & fine motor skills sufficient to provide safe and effective dental hygiene care
- Effective interpersonal skills
- Physical mobility, range of motion, manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination
- Visual and perceptual abilities sufficient for patient assessment
- Auditory ability and other sensory skills sufficient to monitor and assess oral health needs
- Tactile sensitivity sufficient for detection and control with light pressure using small instruments
- Professional attitudes and behaviors
- Ability to use reasonable judgment under stressful conditions
- Ability to work independently while maintaining the highest standards of care
- Effective time management and patient management
- Ability to present a professional appearance, maintain personal health
- Emotional stability
If you are offered a position in the upcoming dental hygiene class, you will need to provide documentation of current immunizations. If accepted, you will also be required to undergo a criminal background check. It is important to know that conviction of a felony or misdemeanor that directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of the dental hygienist may disqualify a person from receiving a license to practice dental hygiene in the state of Texas (in accordance with the Occupations Code, Title 2, Chapter 53).
Individuals need to be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for a license to practice dental hygiene in the state of Texas (in accordance with the Occupations Code, Title 3, Chapter 256).
