New program to address dental hygienist shortage

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is launching a new program aimed at addressing the shortage of dental hygienists and assistants in Wisconsin, a top concern for the Wisconsin Dental Association. 



The program will train students to be an expanded function dental auxiliary and enable dental staff to take on more responsibilities, potentially allowing dentists to see more patients. The position is a step up from the role of dental assistant, potentially leading to higher wages, with neighboring states offering $4-$5 more per hour for similar positions. 



Enrollment for the program will begin in the fall, with classes starting in the spring. The Wisconsin Dental Association acknowledges initiatives like the one at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College as crucial in addressing the worker shortage. Selena Zimmerman, associate dean at the college, noted the full enrollment in the college's dental programs, indicating the high demand for dental education.

Read more: NBC26

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