4 Simple Things to Do to Excel in Dental Hygiene School

Dental hygiene school is exciting, challenging, and, at times, overwhelming. With so much to learn, both clinically and academically, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly trying to keep your head above water. But here’s the good news: success doesn’t always come from big, complicated strategies. Sometimes it’s the simple, consistent habits that make the biggest difference.

Here are four simple things you can do to excel in dental hygiene school:

1. Wear the Dress Code with Pride

Yes, the dress code may feel strict or even a little annoying, but think of it as your professional uniform, not just another school requirement. In the dental world, how you present yourself matters just as much as how you scale. Dressing according to the guidelines helps you get into the mindset of being a professional from day one.

It also prevents unnecessary distractions. Instructors won’t have to correct you on dress code violations, which means their focus (and yours!) stays on your skills, your growth, and your progress as a clinician. When you look the part, you’ll start to feel the part, too.

2. Don’t Cheat—Be Honest in Your Learning

This one may sound obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing. Dental hygiene school is tough, and the temptation to cut corners can sneak in, especially in clinic. Maybe it’s skipping a step on a form, rushing through instrumentation, or pretending you’ve checked something you haven’t.

Here’s the truth: your instructors know. They’ve been in your position, and they can spot when things aren’t done correctly. Cheating doesn’t just hurt your grade; it cheats you out of the skills and confidence you’ll need when treating real patients. Being honest, even when it takes longer, builds trust with your faculty and helps you develop into a clinician who’s prepared and ethical.

3. Be Kind to Your Instructors

Your faculty members aren’t just grading your work—they’re investing in your growth. A little kindness goes a long way. In just a few months, they’ll become your colleagues in the dental world. Many can mentor you, help you expand your skills, and even connect you with job opportunities after graduation. They want to see you succeed, so treat them with the same respect and professionalism you’ll show your future patients.

4. Read the Syllabus

It may not be the most thrilling document, but the syllabus is truly your roadmap for success. Inside, you’ll find due dates, timelines, assignment requirements, policies, and more. Most of the time, the answers to your questions are already there. Before feeling overwhelmed or emailing your professor, take a few minutes to read through it carefully. It can save you stress, time, and unnecessary confusion throughout the semester.

Dental hygiene school will push you, but if you focus on these simple habits, you’ll stand out in the best way possible. They may seem small, but these actions set the foundation for your reputation as a student and, soon, as a professional dental hygienist.

Did you start dental hygiene school this semester?

xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH @meliardh