Similarities and differences of international educational experiences of dental hygienists.

Better understanding of dental hygienists' educational experiences may contribute to a more globally integrated dental hygiene (DH) profession. The purpose of this study was to assess similarities and differences of the educational experiences of dental hygienists who had completed DH programs in a broad spectrum of countries. Dental hygienists, educated in DH programs outside of the United States (US), were surveyed regarding their educational experiences in various subject areas/courses and their clinical skills. The International Federation of Dental Hygienists distributed study information, link for the informed consent, and 28-item survey to their member country House of Delegates representatives, along with a request to forward the survey information to their association members. Additionally, DH faculty at programs outside of the US were identified and invited to participate. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. A total of 513 dental hygienists from 22 countries outside of the US agreed to participate. More than half of all respondents, from over half of the countries, reported holding a baccalaureate degree. Nearly all respondents from all 22 countries reported having courses in periodontology and dental anatomy. Reviewing health histories, scaling using hand and/or ultrasonic instrumentation and the application of fluoride via trays or varnish, were the most common clinical skills, reported by nearly all respondents from almost all countries. Understanding the similarities of DH educational experiences, such as the emphasis on preventive therapy and maintenance of periodontal health, with educational content delivered at the university level, may facilitate greater global collaboration and a more unified workforce.