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.  We are committed to fostering an environment of diversity, equity, and inclusion for all students, faculty and staff. Collectively, we all have a responsibility to create a safe and welcoming community where individuals are encouraged to engage and succeed. Our programs are committed to excellence in the theory and practice of dental hygiene and dental assisting and in the development of competent, culturally diverse, and ethically responsible professionals.

Program Goals

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

A.  Exhibit the highest level of competency, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity

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

Program Outcomes

1. Apply didactic information through patient care experiences
2. Demonstrate critical thinking through, writing, communication, and listening skills
3. Adhere to the ethical, professional, and legal codes of conduct expected of the oral healthcare practitioner
4. Evaluate the different career roles of the dental hygienist/dental assistant
5. Plan dental health community events which provide experiences that support access to oral healthcare and education to diverse populations

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: https://coda.ada.org .  

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 scholarships and 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.