DENTAL HYGIENE INSTRUCTOR SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS
Published: Oct 15, 2024 – The Dental Hygiene Instructor combines relevant clinical experience with sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds of community college students. Holding a California Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) license or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), the instructor effectively utilizes technology and innovative teaching methods to engage students. This role requires strong communication skills, a commitment to community college missions, and a collaborative spirit.
Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Dental Hygiene Instructor Resume
- Dental Radiography
- Periodontal Disease Management
- Oral Pathology Knowledge
- Preventive Care Techniques
- Infection Control Procedures
- Dental Materials Knowledge
- Patient Assessment Skills
- Treatment Planning
- Curriculum Development
- Clinical Instruction
- Communication Skills
- Empathy
- Patience
- Adaptability
- Time Management
- Leadership
- Team Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Organizational Skills
- Interpersonal Skills

Summary of Dental Hygiene Instructor Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume
1. BS in Public Health with 3 years of Experience
- Full-time clinical experience as a Dental Hygienist or Dentist.
- Must have a current license, certification or other credential as required by local, state and/or federal laws to work in the Dental Hygiene field.
- Current knowledge of the specific subjects taught.
- Documented background in educational methodology consistent with teaching assignments.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Knowledge of Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and computer skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse population of patients, students, staff, faculty and administration.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a group setting.
- Demonstrate professional judgment in all situations.
- Hold Current and valid CPR certification
2. BS in Dental Hygiene with 4 years of Experience
- Possesses a current dental hygiene license
- Clinical working experience as a hygienist
- Hold Current CPR card issued by AHA
- Prior teaching work experience
- Documented background in educational methodology consistent with teaching assignments
- Current knowledge of the specific subject they are teaching
- Evidence of participation in workshops, in-service training, self-study courses, online and credit courses, attendance at regional and national meetings, and scholarly productivity
- Must have effective computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite - Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- The ability to supervise, evaluate and coordinate clinical activities
- Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
- Readiness to maintain continuous grant development.
3. BS in Nursing with 6 years of Experience
- Clinical professional experience, which must be directly related to the teaching assignment.
- A sensitivity to and an understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students.
- Hold Current California Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), License or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Proficiency in computer use and willingness to use advanced technology to provide high-quality instruction including online instruction and/or certification (Canvas preferred).
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Experience using student-centered and innovative pedagogies to teach and motivate students at all levels of college readiness.
- Ability to adapt varying pedagogical approaches to meet the needs of a diverse student population
- Familiarity with and commitment to the mission and functions of a community college.
- Demonstrate understanding of career pathways and transfer/workforce opportunities as they relate to the field.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills and a desire and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, students, and other members of a diverse campus community.
- Experience with successful grant implementation, grant development, and grant management.