Course Description:
This course explores educational career pathways available to dental hygienists interested in academia. Participants will examine the roles and responsibilities of clinical and didactic instructors, as well as the distinctions between part-time and full-time faculty positions. Experienced dental hygiene educators will share practical insights into academic careers and highlight the transferable skills many dental hygienists already possess that support success in education.

Objectives:

• Describe the roles and responsibilities of dental hygiene educators across academic, clinical, and community-based settings.
• Recognize the existing clinical skills, professional strengths, and practice experiences that clinical dental hygienists already possess and can transfer to effective roles as educators.
• Explain the impact of dental hygiene educators on student development, workforce advancement, and the future of the dental hygiene profession.
• Outline actionable steps, including education, mentorship, and professional involvement, to transition from clinical practice into dental hygiene education.