Dental Hygiene

What is a Dental Hygienist?

The dental hygienist works closely with other dental team members and healthcare professionals. Patients must first be examined by a dentist who will then indicate the treatment to be carried out by the dental hygienist. The dental hygienist focuses on preventative oral care for both children and adults, including those with special needs. Dental hygienists treat patients in the clinical setting to prevent or control periodontal (gum) disease and dental decay. They also engage in oral health promotional activities with individuals, targeted groups and other healthcare teams, providing advice and counselling in relation to diet and lifestyle habits such as smoking.

Leaving Certificate:

Applicants are required to present six subjects including: English, Mathematics, and one of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agricultural Science or Physics/Chemistry.

Of the six subjects presented, two must be of a standard of at least Grade 4 on Higher Leaving Certificate papers. The remaining four subjects must be presented to a standard of at least Grade 6 on Ordinary Leaving Certificate papers.

EU Mature Students:

Applications may also be considered from mature applicants who do not satisfy the academic entry requirements but can demonstrate appropriate experience relevant to the course.

All offers of admission to this course are made subject to health testing. Entrants will have to pass Trinity's health screening requirements, you can learn more here.

Students will also be required to undergo Garda Vetting, you can learn more here.

English Language Requirements

All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band C (Higher Entry) English language requirements. For more details of qualifications that meet Band C, see the English Language Requirements page here.

The Diploma in Dental Hygiene conferred by Trinity entitles graduates to register immediately after graduation as a dental hygienist on the Register of the Irish Dental Council. This registration is mandatory for working as a dental hygienist in Ireland.