Smiles Start Here: Iowa Central Dental Hygiene Students Prepare for Growing Careers in Healthcare

Emily Denholm, Public Information Office
9/23/2025

At Iowa Central Community College, healthcare education doesn’t just take place in the classroom — it happens every day in our on-campus Dental Hygiene Clinic. Students gain hands-on training by caring for local patients under the supervision of experienced instructors and area practitioners, giving them the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a high-demand field.

The opportunity to work directly with patients while still in college is invaluable, permitting Iowa Central graduates to be prepared to step into their careers and serve their communities. 

The Dental Hygiene Clinic at Iowa Central is more than a training site, it’s a vital resource for the community. Patients receive care while students gain essential experience in preventive dentistry, patient communication, and clinical techniques. It’s a win-win that strengthens both our students’ education and the overall health of the region.

With the upcoming bond renewal, Iowa Central will be able to continue expanding healthcare workforce training programs like Dental Hygiene and Nursing. This renewal would continue an existing levy, which means there would be no increase to the current property tax rate.

The cost of the existing levy is only $25 a year to the average homeowner across the college’s nine-county region. This funding would allow Iowa Central to maintain and grow programs that serve students, support local employers, and strengthen the broader community — all without a tax increase.

The future of dental hygiene is bright. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow faster than average for all occupations, driven by an increased awareness of oral health and an aging population in need of care.

By pursuing a career in dental hygiene, Iowa Central students are stepping into a profession that offers stability, flexibility, and the opportunity to make a daily difference in people’s lives.

From preventive cleanings to patient education, dental hygienists play a crucial role in improving overall health outcomes. Iowa Central is proud to prepare the next generation of professionals who will meet the rising demand for oral healthcare.

“Our graduates are in demand because they are well-trained, compassionate, and ready to serve our region,” said Dr. Jesse Ulrich, President of Iowa Central Community College. “The bond renewal will allow us to continue building programs that strengthen our communities and prepare students for impactful careers without increasing the current property tax rate.”

As Iowa Central looks toward the future, one thing is clear: the smiles of tomorrow begin with the training and dedication of our students today.