The IU Northwest Dental Education department offers an entry-level Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree, a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Degree Completion program, and a Certificate in Dental Assisting. Detailed information is presented in the sections that follow. While every effort has been made to provide accurate information, students should seek academic advice from the Dental Education Advisor before making final decisions based on the program descriptions contained in this bulletin.

Mission

The mission of the Dental Education Programs is to be a leader in providing high quality education and clinical experiences to undergraduate students for future roles as oral healthcare providers.  Our programs are committed to excellence in the theory and practice of dental hygiene/dental assisting and in the development of competent, socially sensitive, culturally diverse, and ethically responsible professionals.

Program Goals

At the completion of the dental hygiene/dental assisting programs students will be able to:

A.  Exhibit the highest level of competency and professionalism

B.  Deliver high quality patient care by the use of sound judgement, critical thinking skills, and evidence-based decision making 

C.  Emphasize the role of the dental hygienist/dental assistant as a patient educator and advocate involved in community oral health engagement activities related to health promotion and disease prevention

Accreditation

The programs in Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (312) 440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678. The Commission’s web address is: http://www.ada.org/en/coda.  

Professional Student Memberships

Students currently enrolled in one of the accredited Dental Education programs are required to be a member of the national, state, and local constituents of the American Dental Assistants' Association (ADAA) or the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA).  In addition, there are many member benefits for students including opportunities for personal and professional development. The purpose of this membership is for the students to become familiar with the organization and structure of their professional association.