{Ep.35} Why the ADA’s Proposed Changes Diminish Dental Hygiene Education

This week, we tackle three proposed ADA changes that could reshape dental hygiene education—and not necessarily for the better. We also talk about how the ADHA responded and what you can do to advocate for the dental hygiene profession and ensure that dental hygienists are the personnel that are performing dental hygiene services. Here’s what we cover:

1️⃣ Reduced Faculty-to-Student Ratios: The ADA is pushing to align hygiene program faculty ratios with those of dental programs. We discuss why this might threaten the quality of hands-on clinical training for hygiene students.

2️⃣ Allowing Dental Students to Perform Cleanings: The ADA’s plan to let dental students practice as hygienists without separate licensure raises concerns. We dig into what this could mean for patient care standards.

3️⃣ Internationally Trained Dentists Practicing as Hygienists: The ADA proposes integrating foreign-trained dentists into the hygiene workforce without requiring hygiene-specific licensure. We explore how this could impact patient trust and the distinct role of dental hygienists in preventive care.

💬 Join us as we break down each proposal and its potential effects on patient safety, education quality, and the dental hygiene profession. Whether you’re a student, professional, or advocate, you won’t want to miss this deep dive!

ADHA Response: https://www.adha.org/newsroom/adha-ob...

Dental Workforce Shortages Data: https://www.ada.org/-/media/project/a...

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