4 ways to maximize opportunities as a dental hygiene student

Entering dental hygiene school is a huge achievement, but it’s just the beginning. I started my program with no dental experience—no assisting background, nothing. But my passion for learning and teaching others opened doors I never imagined. By stepping outside my comfort zone and taking advantage of opportunities, I’ve grown professionally and personally. Here’s how you can do the same.

1. Build strong relationships with instructors and classmates.

Getting into the program was competitive, but now you’re in alongside 10 to 30 students who are on the same journey. Instead of seeing them as competition, recognize that teamwork will make your experience smooth and rewarding.

Create group chats to share resources, ask questions, and support each other. Organize study groups to reinforce learning and break down complex topics. Also, trading patients is a must because one day you might have an extra patient, and the next day you might need a patient.

Dental hygiene school is tough, but having a support system will make it easier and much more enjoyable. After graduation, you might need to reach out to some of your classmates for advice or a job. The dental hygiene community is small, and your instructors play a crucial role in your future. They can write you letters of recommendation, serve as references on your résumé, and guide you after you graduate. One day, you might even work alongside them! Creating meaningful relationships with others is key in dental hygiene school because you never know who you’ll meet during your journey.

2. Create content and share your journey.

I started by making small daily vlogs about my first semester—nothing fancy, just a real look at what hygiene school is like. I shared my experiences, challenges, and daily life. Before I knew it, pre dental hygiene students, applicants, and even current students started following me.

 By my second semester, I realized the power of content creation and began making videos about what to expect in hygiene school; tips and tricks to make school easier; things I wish I knew before starting classes; and dental humor and relatable moments.

What started as a fun way to document my journey turned into an incredible opportunity for networking, professional growth, and even financial benefits. Since I couldn’t work during the program, content creation became a helpful source of a little extra gas and coffee money, something every student can appreciate. It also allowed me to connect with brands, share knowledge, and inspire future students.

3. Put yourself out there and network.

What’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? You never know what can come from simply putting yourself out there. When I started posting on social media, I had no expectations, but it led to invitations to speak on podcasts, brand deals with major companies, and connections with inspiring professionals and content creators I’d admired from afar.

Whether it’s social media, hygiene events, or simply reaching out to someone you look up to, take the leap. The worst that can happen is they don’t respond. The best? You can gain opportunities beyond what you ever imagined.

Social media is great for connecting with peers, and having a LinkedIn profile helps establish your credibility in the professional world. It allows businesses, employers, and other dental professionals to read about your experience and skills. This makes it easier to network and opens doors for future career opportunities.

I recommend attending dental conferences. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is where real growth happens. Conferences allow you to meet other hygienist, explore the latest industry innovations, and gain insight into your future career. Making these in-person connections as a student prepares you for networking once you officially have RDH after your name.

4. Don’t be afraid to stand out.

On the first day of class, I walked around the room, introduced myself to everyone, and asked for their number to start a group chat. That small step made me the go-to person for organizing and leading, and when it was time for student council elections, I was the only one who emailed my professor about running for class president.

Most people hesitate to step up because they fear failure or added responsibility. But the truth is, putting yourself in leadership positions, no matter how small, opens doors. Before hygiene school, I was an anatomy tutor. I never planned on it, but my academic advisor and professors encouraged me to apply. I was always asking questions and making sure I truly understood concepts, and that curiosity turned into confidence. Later, I tutored first semester dental hygiene students and created video resources for them. I posted these online, and the positive feedback was overwhelming.

Maximizing your opportunities in dental hygiene school is not about being the best student. It’s about being proactive, stepping out of your comfort zone, and building connections. Whether it’s through networking, leadership, or social media, the possibilities are endless.

You don’t need to have a background in dentistry to succeed. You just need passion, confidence, and the willingness to take chances. Trust me, the opportunities will follow.