Hands-On Learning Experiences
Dental hygiene students are provided with a wide variety of hands-on learning opportunities outside the classroom to practice clinical procedures learned to date and engage in professional experiences they will encounter after graduation.
Patient Care at the UNMC College of Dentistry
Dental hygiene students work in conjunction with dental students to provide patients with all the care they need. Our highly effective clinic model promotes a sense of teamwork and helps students build relationships with their patients. Dental hygiene students also work alongside dental specialists in the college's Department of Growth and Development and Department of Surgical Specialties.
UNMC Omaha Patient Care Rotation
Dental hygiene students spend three days at the UNMC College of Dentistry Omaha Clinic (Durham Outpatient Center) and the UNMC College of Dentistry Pediatric Clinic (Children's Nebraska). They are able to observe and/or assist the college's faculty and postgraduate dental residents in the dental clinics and operating rooms.
School-Based Sealant Program
Through the UNMC College of Dentistry's Sealant Program, dental hygiene students provide sealants, fluoride varnish, exams, referrals and oral health education to underserved children in public schools in Lincoln, Omaha, Gering, Scottsbluff and more.
Extramural Rotations
Dental hygiene students get firsthand experience providing patient care through extramural rotations at:
- Community health centers in Lincoln and Columbus
- Private practices in rural communities
- Nursing homes in Seward and Milford
- Pine Ridge Indian Reservation
- State institutions
College of Dentistry Outreach Programs
Our many community outreach programs (Children's Dental Day, Special Olympics, SHARING Clinic, etc.) allow students to volunteer their time and talents to provide services to underserved populations that have little or no access to oral health care. Students have memorable, rewarding experiences helping those in need while they practice their clinical and communication skills.