Dental hygiene education programs across the United States are experiencing a remarkable surge, with total enrollment reaching an all-time high of 17,717 students in the 2024-25 academic year, according to newly released data from the American Dental Association's Survey of Allied Dental Education.

The latest figures represent a significant turnaround for the profession, showing sustained growth after weathering challenges during the pandemic years. Total enrollment has increased by 7.9% over just the past two years, adding 1,301 students since the 2022-23 academic year.

The number of dental hygiene graduates has also reached new heights, with 7,739 students completing their programs in 2024—the highest number in the past decade. This represents an impressive 8.5% increase from 2023 and marks a dramatic recovery from the pandemic-era low of 6,857 graduates in 2022.

"These numbers tell a story of resilience and growth," notes the report. The 882 additional graduates compared to 2022 represent a 12.9% increase in just two years, suggesting that programs have not only recovered but are expanding to meet growing demand for dental hygiene professionals.

Looking at the broader ten-year trend from 2014-15 to 2024-25, dental hygiene education has grown by 8.3%, adding 1,352 students to total enrollment nationwide. While this represents steady overall growth, the journey has not been without challenges.

Enrollment dipped to its lowest point of 15,799 students during the 2021-22 academic year, reflecting the impact of COVID-19 on higher education. However, the field has rebounded strongly, with current enrollment sitting 12.1% above that pandemic low.

Similarly, graduate numbers experienced volatility during the same period, fluctuating between a high of 7,385 in 2016 and the 2022 low. The dramatic rebound to 7,739 graduates in 2024 demonstrates the sector's ability to not only recover but thrive in the post-pandemic environment.

Several factors may be contributing to the surge in dental hygiene education:

Workforce Demand: The dental industry continues to face staffing challenges, with many practices actively seeking qualified hygienists. This demand translates to strong career prospects for graduates.

Program Expansion: Many institutions have increased their capacity to accommodate more students, responding to both workforce needs and student interest in healthcare careers.

Career Stability: Dental hygiene offers competitive salaries, flexible scheduling options, and stable employment—attributes that have become increasingly attractive in an uncertain economic environment.

Post-Pandemic Shift: The renewed focus on healthcare careers following the pandemic appears to have benefited dental hygiene programs, with more students considering allied health professions.

The strong enrollment numbers in 2024-25 suggest that the pipeline of dental hygiene professionals will remain robust in the coming years. With first-year enrollment reaching 9,199 students this year—up 2.6% from the previous year—programs are continuing to attract new students at healthy rates.

The data paints a picture of a profession in a growth phase, with both current enrollment and graduate numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels and setting new records. For dental practices facing workforce challenges, this trend offers hope for improved access to qualified hygienists in the years ahead.

For prospective students, the numbers reflect a field with strong momentum and promising career prospects. As dental hygiene education continues its upward trajectory, the profession appears well-positioned to meet the oral healthcare needs of communities nationwide.

Data sourced from the American Dental Association's 2024-25 Survey of Allied Dental Education, Report 1 - Dental Hygiene Education Programs. The survey encompasses all accredited dental hygiene programs in the United States.