Student Experience
What To Expect
The Dental Hygiene program at Algonquin College integrates theory with practical skills and experience. You develop clinical skills on mannequins and student partners in the first semester. You present practical case presentations to your peers, and learn to pour models, trim models, fabricate custom mouth guards and whitening trays in the well-equipped dental laboratory.
Success Stories and Testimonials
“I wante
d a career that helped others in a meaningful way that also offered a stable work-life balance. My mom is a Dental Hygienist and I’ve always wanted to become one!
I was impressed the most by the support that I received from the faculty and peers in this program. When my partner passed away during the school year they really uplifted me.
The education I was given in this program is very thorough and prepared me very well and from faculty with years of experiences under their belt who I can really trust. The AC Dental Clinic prepared me for the real life challenges of a dental office. With the various types of clients that attend, I was able to have a well rounded educational experience that I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else. It fostered interprofessional collaboration, growth of professional character and a safe learning environment.”
-Charlotte, Graduate, 2024, Dental Hygienist, CDHO
“I chose this program as it has an excellent reputation in the field and a high success rate on the NDHCE. It also has dedicated administration staff that work hard to secure clients for you during practicum.
This program thoroughly prepares you for the board exam, and challenges you to grow as you navigate through the program. It has excellent staff that offer invaluable guidance and mentorship.
The advice I would give to anyone considering this program is that everything you learn from day one is important. Come into the program ready to learn, accept the things you can’t control, and understand that everyone is trying their best.”
-Chelsea, Graduate, 2024, Dental Hygiene
Work Integrated Learning
You will practice in a fully equipped Dental Clinic on campus to provide on-site client care services to the community, under the direct supervision of registered dental hygienists and dentists. This is one of the only programs in Canada that provides you with clients and receptionists that confirm reservations, allowing you to focus on your education.
You will also use your skills in the community, providing free preventative oral care for the street youth of Ottawa, participating in community health fairs, and promoting health activities with various high risk community groups. You will also organize an Annual Fun Run/Walk with proceeds alternating between the dental departments of the Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.
