University’s new dental hygiene program seeks to enhance dental care in state
Murray State University announced the launch of a dental hygiene program to address the shortage of dental hygienists and improve oral health care in western Kentucky.
A large proportion of adult and pediatric patients in western Kentucky may not receive necessary oral health care, according to a news report from WPSD Local 6. For instance, experts cited in the article stated that some patients may experience months-long delays in care, reflecting ongoing challenges recruiting dental hygienists following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Murray State University received a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop the dental hygiene program in 2024 and $40,000 from the Delta Dental of Kentucky Foundation earlier in 2026. The funding will support the addition of a dental clinic, laboratory and offices as well as the purchase of equipment and supplies.
Although the program still requires approval from the Commission on Dental Accreditation to commence this fall, those leading the effort to introduce the program hope it will encourage dental students to study and practice dental hygiene within the community.
Read more: WPSD Local 6
The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.