Dental hygienists maintain and promote oral health by providing services and advice designed to help patients manage the condition of their mouths, teeth and gums. They also complete preventative activities such as fissure sealants on adults and children.
A three-year bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene will include integrated and compulsory units of academic teaching, clinical skills and practice, and a dissertation comprising taught components in didactics, scientific research and a personal investigation. Candidates will learn the essentials of the relevant theory before they start practical work at an accredited clinical facility, taking treatment in both the private and public sectors.
What is a Dental Hygienist?
A dental hygienist is a healthcare professional who specialises in oral health under the supervision of a dentist. More often called dental hygienists, they focus on preventative oral healthcare by cleaning patients’ teeth, examining gums and flossing.
These professionals also perform basic dental procedures such as removing plaque and tartar from patients’ teeth and checking for signs of oral cancer during routine check-ups. Some of the duties that they are in charge of, but not limited to, are:
- Cleaning teeth with dental instruments
- Reviewing the patient’s medical history as well as maintaining accurate records
- Inspecting patients’ lymph nodes for signs of swelling and identifying signs of oral cancer
- Examining & probing gums to check for any signs of periodontal disease
- Performing X-rays
- Recording the symptoms of oral disease for the dentist to review and diagnose
- Cleaning, sterilising and organising dental equipment
Learn more about studying dental hygienist courses in the UK below and arrange a free consultation with StudyIn to begin your application.
Top 10 Dental Hygiene Universities in the UK
1. University of Bristol
Based in the heart of Bristol, the University of Bristol is known for its academic distinction and cutting-edge research. Its dental hospital has a long and established history of training programmes in dental hygiene and dentistry therapy. The BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy degree from Bristol will provide an exciting opportunity to study alongside undergraduate students in the BDS Dentistry course.
- Suggested course: BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy
- Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 points overall with 16 at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Biology.
2. University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth offers a comprehensive dental hygiene and therapy programme with strong clinical foundations. Students benefit from modern facilities and a curriculum designed to prepare them for professional practice in diverse healthcare settings.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy & Hygiene
- Entry requirements: Please refer to the university website for specific entry requirements.
3. Cardiff University
Cardiff University delivers a robust dental hygiene and therapy education, combining academic rigour with practical training. The programme equips students with the skills needed to promote oral health and manage clinical care effectively.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy & Dental Hygiene
- Entry requirements: Please refer to the university website for specific entry requirements.
4. University of Leeds
Renowned for its commitment to research-led teaching, the University of Leeds offers an outstanding BSc in Dental Hygiene and Therapy. The programme strongly emphasises evidence-based practice, preparing students to contribute to advancements in dental health.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene & Therapy
- Entry requirements: A-level: ABB including Biology, excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking.
5. University of Sheffield
With a rich history of academic achievement, the University of Sheffield maintains its standing as a top choice for dental hygiene education. The DipHE in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy explores theoretical knowledge alongside extensive clinical experience.
- Suggested course: DipHE Dental Hygiene & Dental Therapy
- Entry requirements: 2:2 degree in a relevant scientific subject.
6. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham has emerged as a powerhouse in dental education, consistently setting high standards for academic excellence. Its BSc Dental Hygiene & Therapy programme combines a strong theoretical foundation with extensive clinical training.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene & Therapy
- Entry requirements: IB – 5, 5, 5 at Higher Level (including Biology and preferably Chemistry), with a minimum of 32 points overall.
7. King’s College London
King’s College London offers a well-regarded dental hygiene and therapy programme that blends academic excellence with clinical expertise. Students benefit from access to world-class facilities and a curriculum informed by global dental health standards.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy & Hygiene
- Entry requirements: Please refer to the university website for specific entry requirements.
8. Teesside University
Teesside University stands out for its strong focus on employability in dental health careers. The BSc in Dental Hygiene provides students with state-of-the-art facilities and practical training, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in oral healthcare.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene
- Entry requirements: At least two GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English language and maths.
9. University of Huddersfield
The University of Huddersfield offers a BSc in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience. The programme is designed to develop confident, competent dental professionals ready for practice.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene & Dental Therapy
- Entry requirements: Please refer to the university website for specific entry requirements.
10. University of Greater Manchester
The University of Greater Manchester provides a comprehensive dental hygiene and therapy programme that prepares students for a wide range of clinical roles. The course integrates academic study with practical training in modern facilities.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene & Therapy
- Entry requirements: Please refer to the university website for specific entry requirements.
How Do I Become a Dental Hygienist?
To become a dental hygienist in the UK, international students typically need to meet academic and language requirements for entry into a recognised university programme. Most dental hygiene degrees are offered as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Diploma through institutions approved by the General Dental Council (GDC).
Academic Pathways
Students can choose one of the following routes:
- Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene or Dental Hygiene & Therapy: Offered by many UK universities, this is the most common route for international students.
- Diploma in Dental Hygiene or Oral Health Science: Available at select GDC-approved institutions, this is a shorter, vocational pathway.
Typical Entry Requirements
While requirements vary by university, general expectations include:
Secondary qualifications:
- Five GCSEs (grades 4–7 or A–C), including English and Maths
- Two or three A-levels, often including Biology or a science subject
- Alternatives may include:
- NVQ Level 2 in Dental Nursing
- BTEC Extended Diploma (Grade C or 7)
- Level 3 Certificate in Dental Radiology
International equivalents (for bachelor’s degree entry):
- A*AA = 90% ISC or CBSE
- AAA = 85% ISC or CBSE
- AAB = 80% ISC or CBSE
- ABB/BBB = 75% ISC or CBSE
English language proficiency:
- IELTS score of 7.0 or higher (with no band below 6.5)
Study a Dental Hygienist Course in the UK
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FAQs
What qualifications do I need to study for a dental hygiene degree in the UK?
To pursue a dental hygiene degree in the UK, typical entry requirements include A-levels, IB diplomas, or equivalent qualifications. For instance, the University of Bristol and the University of Birmingham often look for A-levels in science-related subjects. Newcastle University requires a minimum of 120 UCAS points.
How can I get a full scholarship to study for a dental hygiene degree in the UK?
Full scholarships for dental hygiene degrees are uncommon, but various universities and external organisations offer financial assistance. Scholarships can be based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of factors.
Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for dental hygiene degrees?
Teesside University, London South Bank University, and the University of Suffolk are known for their inclusive approach and may have relatively higher acceptance rates for dental hygiene degrees.
