Dental hygienists remove calculus deposits and stains from teeth, polish teeth, apply sealants and fluoride, take X-rays, record medical and dental histories, and educate patients on how proper brushing, flossing and eating habits can help maintain a healthy mouth.

Kirkwood’s Dental Hygiene program is affiliated with the College of Dentistry at the University of Iowa where students gain hands-on clinical experience with patients. Students receive instruction and experience in community service projects. This Associate of Applied Science degree curriculum includes lecture, lab and hands-on experience.

Accreditation: Kirkwood’s Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation and by the United States Department of Education. Dental Hygiene graduates are eligible to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and the regional board examinations of their choice.

Successful completion of both board examinations is required to recieve a license to practice dental hygiene.

Program Director:

Shaunda Clark, CDA, RDH, B.S., M.Ed.
223 Linn Hall
319-398-5566
shaunda.clark@kirkwood.edu