# 6 Best Dental Hygiene Programs in Kansas City, MO \(Updated for 2026\)

- Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/6-best-dental-hygiene-programs-in-kansas-city-mo-updated-for-2024/
- Published: 2024-02-03
- Author: Charlene Farwell
- Categories: [School](https://33rdsquare.com/category/education/school/)

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Dental hygiene is an appealing healthcare career choice that offers job growth, good salaries, and flexibility in practice setting. Kansas City, Missouri houses a number of renowned dental hygiene programs to help students launch successful careers as licensed dental hygienists.

This guide profiles the 6 best dental hygiene programs in Kansas City, MO based on program quality, affordability, reputation and outcomes. We evaluate each program on key factors to assist prospective students find the right fit for them.

## Overview of Dental Hygiene Programs in Kansas City, MO

Dental hygiene programs are available in Kansas City at private career colleges and community colleges offering associate degrees, certificates and diplomas. The 2-year associate degree program is the most common pathway to becoming a practicing dental hygienist. Program requirements range from 55-82 credits including classes, lab work and clinical practice.

Program lengths vary based on prior college credits and part-time or full-time enrollment. However, most can be completed within 2-3 years. Programs focus on core topics like oral anatomy, periodontology, dental hygiene practices, radiology, pharmacology, ethics, community health and prevention. Students gain over 500-1000 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Graduates are eligible for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and Missouri state certification. With license in hand, dental hygienists can find jobs in dental offices, clinics, schools, government agencies, research centers and companies making dental products. Many also open their own hygiene practices for greater independence.

Here is a table comparing the key specifications of the top 6 dental hygiene programs in Kansas City, MO:

| Program | Institution Type | Program Format | Program Length | Admission Requirements | Tuition (Estimate) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Dental Hygiene | Concorde Career College | For-profit career college | Associate degree | High school diploma/GED Entrance exam | $32,824 |
| Dental Hygiene | Kansas City Kansas Community College | Public community college | Associate degree | High school diploma/GED, college placement tests | $8,700 (in-state) |
| Dental Hygiene | University of Missouri – Kansas City | Public university | Bachelor‘s degree | High school diploma/GED, minimum GPA, entrance exam, interview | $22,000 (in-state) |
| Dental Hygiene | Metropolitan Community College | Public community college | Associate degree | High school diploma/GED, minimum GPA, college placement tests | $9,840 (in-state) |
| Dental Assisting | Concorde Career College | For-profit career college | Diploma | High school diploma/GED Entrance exam | $17,068 |
| Expanded Functions Dental Assistant | Kansas City Kansas Community College | Public community college | Certificate | DA diploma or experience | $1,500 (in-state) |

Now let‘s discuss each of these top 6 dental hygiene schools and programs in more detail:

## 1. Concorde Career College – Kansas City

Concorde Career College in Kansas City offers a 3-year Associate of Occupational Science degree in Dental Hygiene approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

The 82-credit curriculum covers science, dental and clinical courses. Students gain over 575 hours of hands-on clinical experience in the on-campus dental hygiene clinic. Facilities feature cutting-edge tools and technology for optimal training.

The low 8:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized instruction and mentoring. Graduates are eligible for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam. Concorde also offers a shorter Diploma program in Dental Assisting.

**Key Program Details:**

- 82 credits, 25 months full-time
- 576 supervised clinical hours
- Hands-on training in 10-chair dental hygiene clinic
- Student-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Career placement assistance for graduates

**Admissions Requirements:**

- High school diploma/GED
- Complete entrance exam
- Interview

[Learn more about the Concorde dental hygiene program.](https://www.concorde.edu/program/dental-hygiene-training-kansas-city-mo)

## 2. Kansas City Kansas Community College

Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA).

The 79-credit program provides classroom instruction and clinical work at the on-campus dental hygiene clinic. Students gain experience providing dental hygiene services to patients under close supervision of licensed dental professionals.

The curriculum instills skills in infection control, root planning, sealant application, radiographs, pain management, fluoride application and more. Graduates can take the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam.

**Key Program Details:**

- 79 credits, 2 years full-time
- 500 supervised clinical hours
- 10-20:1 student-faculty ratio
- Hands-on training in 16-chair dental hygiene clinic
- Career guidance from student success office

**Admissions Requirements:**

- High school diploma/GED
- Complete college placement tests
- Interview

[Learn more about the KCKCC dental hygiene program.](http://www.kckcc.edu/programs/dentalhygiene)

## 3. University of Missouri – Kansas City Dental Hygiene Program

The UMKC School of Dentistry offers a 4-year Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene that meets Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards.

The 120-credit program provides advanced classroom and clinical training in dental sciences and hygiene practices. Students gain over 1,000 hours of clinical work across various practice settings. The curriculum covers periodontics, pain management, community oral health, healthcare policy, leadership principles and research methods.

State-of-the-art dental simulation labs feature high-tech manikins and haptic technology for immersive learning. Students also provide dental hygiene treatment to patients at the on-campus clinic.

**Key Program Details:**

- 120 credits, 4 years full-time
- 1,044 supervised clinical hours
- Competition is high with small cohorts of 24 students
- 10:1 student-faculty ratio
- Cutting-edge simulation labs

**Admissions Requirements:**

- High school diploma/GED
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- ACT score
- Complete admissions exam
- Interview

[Learn more about the UMKC dental hygiene program.](https://dentistry.umkc.edu/academics/dental-hygiene/about-the-program/)

## 4. Metropolitan Community College – Kansas City

The Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The 79-credit program provides comprehensive training in dental hygiene skills and theory. Students gain over 500 hours of clinical experience across community clinics and private dental offices. The hands-on training focuses on patient assessment, instrumentation, radiography and preventive dental care.

Experienced faculty provide individual attention through a low student-teacher ratio. Graduates can take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination to gain licensure for practice.

**Key Program Details:**

- 79 credits, 2 years full-time
- 500+ supervised clinical hours
- 10:1 student-faculty ratio
- Practical experience across community clinics
- Career guidance from student services

**Admissions Requirements:**

- High school diploma/GED
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Complete college placement tests

[Learn more about the MCC dental hygiene program.](https://mcckc.edu/programs/dent/dental-hygiene/index.aspx)

## 5. Concorde Career College – Dental Assisting Diploma

In addition to the dental hygiene degree, Concorde Career College in Kansas City also offers a Diploma program in Dental Assisting approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

This 37-credit program prepares students for entry-level roles across dental offices and facilities. The curriculum covers key topics like dental anatomy, radiography, lab techniques, office administration, patient care and communication.

Students gain 300 hours of practical experience assisting dentists during consultations, procedures and follow-ups. Small classes ensure individualized instruction and support. Graduates are eligible for DANB certification.

**Key Program Details:**

- 37 credits, 9 months full-time
- 300 hours externship experience
- Radiology and lab certifications
- Trained on digital dentistry tools
- Student-faculty ratio: 12:1

**Admissions Requirements:**

- High school diploma/GED
- Pass entrance exam

[Learn more about the Concorde dental assisting program.](https://www.concorde.edu/program/dental-assistant-training-kansas-city-mo)

## 6. KCKCC Expanded Functions Dental Assisting

The Kansas City Kansas Community College offers a Certificate program in Expanded Functions Dental Assisting for practicing dental assistants looking to advance their skills.

This 21-credit program provides training in specialized intraoral procedures like placing restorations, contouring restorations, crown cementation and monitoring nitrous oxide. Hands-on clinical experience focuses on applying these expanded skills under dentist supervision.

Applicants must have at least one year of clinical practice as a registered dental assistant. Graduates can take the DANB exam for EFDA certification.

**Key Program Details:**

- 21 credits, 1 year part-time
- Supervised clinical practice
- Trained on intraoral procedures
- Prepares for DANB EFDA exam

**Admissions Requirements:**

- 1 year experience as Registered Dental Assistant
- Proof of high school completion

[Learn more about the KCKCC EFDA program.](http://www.kckcc.edu/programs/expandedfunction/index.html)

## How to Choose the Right Dental Hygiene Program

When comparing dental hygiene schools and programs, here are key factors to consider:

**Program Quality:** Check accreditations, pass rates on board exams, ratings, rankings and reputation. Look for evidence of strong student outcomes.

**Cost:** Confirm total program cost and financial aid options. Seek out affordable programs like at community colleges.

**Curriculum:** Evaluate course topics, extent of lab work and clinical hours. Choose comprehensive curriculum aligned to board exam.

**Faculty:** Review faculty qualifications and expertise. Seasoned instructors translate to quality education.

**Facilities:** Look for modern classrooms, dental labs, hygiene clinics, technology and equipment. This optimizes practical training.

**Location:** Ensure the campus is accessible and safe for you. Online components can provide more flexibility.

By evaluating programs on these parameters, you can determine the best dental hygiene school for your needs and career aspirations.

## Job Outlook for Dental Hygienists

The job outlook for dental hygienists across Kansas City and nationwide is very strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average across occupations.

Key reasons driving this demand include:

- Growing focus on preventative dental care
- Expanding healthcare coverage
- Advances in dentistry requiring more hygiene services
- Retirement of existing hygienists

Graduates of accredited dental hygiene programs can enjoy rewarding careers across settings like:

- Dental offices and clinics
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Nursing homes
- Government agencies
- Private and group practices
- Educational institutions
- Dental corporations

With an associate or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene, you can benefit from excellent job prospects, flexible work arrangements, competitive pay and opportunities to specialize.

## Bottom Line

This guide profiles the key features, benefits, admission requirements and other useful details on the 6 best dental hygiene schools and training programs available in Kansas City, MO.

We hope this detailed overview assists both prospective and current students find the program well-suited to their academic and career aspirations to unlock a meaningful and financially-rewarding career in the growing field of dental hygiene.

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Source: [6 Best Dental Hygiene Programs in Kansas City, MO \(Updated for 2026\)](https://33rdsquare.com/6-best-dental-hygiene-programs-in-kansas-city-mo-updated-for-2024/)