THE BACCALAUREATE-EDUCATED DENTAL HYGIENIST

The baccalaureate degree as entry level education will prepare dental hygienists to meet the basic challenges of evolving patient oral health care needs. Background The nature of health care is changing because of economic and societal developments. For example, the Affordable Care Act is allowing more individuals the opportunity to seek care. People are living longer with chronic disorders. Technological advances allow for treatment of disease to ultimately improve or extend lives. States are legislating broader scopes of practice for dental hygienists and other types of health care providers. Trends such as nontraditional work settings and patients exhibiting chronic diseases with comorbidities, suggest that dental hygienists have at least a baccalaureate education to be prepared to embrace expanded interprofessional roles, technological advances, and effective care for diverse populations. Advanced degrees beyond the baccalaureate level will be indicated for dental hygienist researchers and scholars who will lead theory and policy development to improve population health. Methods The importance of a baccalaureate education for dental hygienists is illustrated with insights from dental hygiene and dental education organizations, the American Association of Colleges and Universities and current literature. Conclusions A baccalaureate education will equip dental hygienists to help provide basic oral care for a diverse population in a variety of health care settings. Health care providers with a broad range of knowledge and skills, flexibility and decision-making capacity, and a commitment to personal and social responsibility will be valued in the marketplace. More research is needed documenting the public health benefits of a baccalaureate-educated dental hygienist and further advanced degrees in dental hygiene.