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Dental Hygiene Program

MSSU Dental Hygiene Students Working
Your path to a high-demand healthcare career

MSSU's Dental Hygiene Program

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prepare for a high-demand career in dental hygiene

MSSU’s Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene prepares you to become a licensed dental hygienist through hands-on clinic experience, rigorous science coursework, and close mentorship from expert faculty.


what does a dental hygienist do?

Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who provide preventive care, patient education, and clinical services in dental offices, public health clinics, and other healthcare settings. They play a vital role in promoting oral wellness through services such as:

  • Oral health assessments
  • Taking radiographs
  • Patient education and counseling
  • Non‑surgical periodontal therapy
  • Removal of deposits and stains from teeth
  • Application of sealants whaand fluoride treatments

Steps to Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Missouri

What Careers Can I get with this degree?

Dental hygienists in Missouri work in:

  • Private dental practices
  • Community health clinics
  • Hospitals and specialty practices
  • Education and research roles

Education Options at MSSU

To become a licensed dental hygienist, you must complete an accredited program. MSSU provides two pathways:

Dental hygiene student working with a patient in the MSSU on-campus clinic

Salary and Job Outlook in Missouri

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists in Missouri enjoy competitive salaries and strong job growth. Demand for preventive oral healthcare continues to rise, making dental hygiene a stable and rewarding career path.

Why Choose MSSU?

  • Accredited program with a long history of excellence (established in 1975)
  • Modern facilities in the Health Sciences building
  • Small class sizes for personalized instruction
  • Strong licensure exam pass rates
  • Opportunities for outreach and community service

Ready to Take the Next Step?


MSSU student in dental hygiene lab


Our Mission

  • Empower students to become LIFELONG LEARNERS;
  • Facilitate the development of ETHICAL and COMPETENT oral healthcare professionals, who provide patient care to a diverse population utilizing innovative technologies. 

Our Vision

To be recognized as the premier dental hygiene program in the United States.

Our Goals

  • Provide quality education that reflects best practices in dental hygiene in order to become an ethical, licensed, oral healthcare professional. 
  • Engage students in outreach activities that serve a diverse, patient population in our community.
  • Create an educational environment that fosters the development of lifelong learning, outstanding leaders, and oral healthcare professionals. 

Quick Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact the Department

Jill Pyle

Program Director
Phone: 417-625-9600
Fax: 417-625-3078
Email: pyle-j@mssu.edu