Is it true that a "recognized dental hygiene school" must be accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation?

A "recognized dental hygiene school" indeed must be accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (ADA CODA) for its graduates to be eligible for licensure and practice as dental hygienists. The ADA's Commission on Dental Accreditation establishes rigorous standards that these programs must meet to ensure the education provided is comprehensive and up-to-date with current dental practices and patient care methods.

This accreditation is critical because it ensures that dental hygiene programs maintain high educational standards, thus preparing graduates effectively for their roles. Without this accreditation, graduates may not qualify for state exams required for licensure, limiting their ability to practice legally.

Accreditation from the ADA CODA is recognized nationwide, and while individual states may have specific laws regarding the practice of dental hygiene, they typically align with the requirement for graduation from an ADA-accredited program. This ensures a consistent standard in training across different regions and helps maintain a high level of care in dental hygiene practices.