The University of Mississippi School of Dentistry, located in Jackson, Mississippi, offers pre-doctoral Bachelor's degrees that prepare students for their doctoral studies. One of the main advantages of attending the School of Dentistry is that the class sizes are limited to just 35 students, with a preference given to residents of the state of Mississippi. Students obtain their education and hands-on training mostly in the laboratory, as opposed to in a classroom setting as is common in other schools.
For those looking to become dental assistants or wanting to study the field of dental hygiene, Meridian Community College is the right place. The dental assisting program leads to a one-year certificate that prepares students to work as dental assistants. A dental assistant helps the dentist with various office and lab duties as well as patient care. Meridian Community College also offers a dental hygiene program which is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. This program educates students in all phases involved in the dental hygiene profession with practical experience in dental health activities in the community. All students are required to complete a summer internship as part of the course.
The Pearl River Community College, located in Poplarville, Mississippi, offers Associate's Degrees in Dental Hygiene. The course covers topics such as radiographs, fluoride treatments, oral prophylaxis, head and neck exams, periodontal exams, sealants and non-surgical periodontal therapy. A limited number of 15 students are allowed into the program each year, which allows for more individualized education. Pearl River Community College boasts that 100% of the students who graduate there both pass the National Dental Hygiene Board Exam and are placed in jobs.
Hinds Community College, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is one of the largest public community colleges in the state, with a population of over 19,000 students. The college has a Dental Assisting Technology program, which is a 12-month course of study that covers topics such as conducting minor laboratory work, managing the business aspects of the office, administering x-rays and other related skills.