Dental Hygienist (WA)

State/Territory Specific Information

Education and Training:

To become a dental hygienist you usually have to complete an associate degree in dental hygiene. The associate degree course is usually combined with dental therapy training. To get into the course below you usually need to pass your TEE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of biology or human biology are normally required. Entry is highly competitive, and there is a strict quota. You will also need to complete a manual dexterity test and attend an interview before acceptance into the course. Contact the university for more information as requirements may change.

Diploma Courses:

Curtin University of Technology - Bentley Campus:

  • Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene

Additional Information:

To practise in WA, dental hygienists must be registered with the Dental Board of Western Australia.

Related Courses:

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

  1. Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene
  2. Associate Degree in School Dental Therapy

Employment Opportunities:

Dental hygienists are mainly employed with dentists in private dental practices. There are some opportunities in community health centres, dental hospitals and regional clinics.

It is a small occupation with good employment opportunities. However, there are limited training places available and competition is strong.

For Further Information:

Department of Dental Hygiene and Therapy, Curtin University of Technology

(08) 9346 7882

Dental Board of Western Australia

(08) 9321 8499

Dental Hygienists' Association of Australia Inc (National Office)

Australian Dental Association (Federal Office)

(02) 9906 4412