What is Dental Hygienist Week?
Dental Hygienist Week is an annual celebration dedicated to recognizing the vital role dental hygienists play in maintaining oral health and preventing dental diseases. This week highlights their contributions to patient care, education, and overall health awareness.

Quick Facts

• When is it?
  Dental Hygienist Week is celebrated annually during the second week of April, typically from April 7th to April 14th.
• Tagged as:
  Oral health awareness, dental hygiene appreciation.
• What’s the hashtag? DentalHygienistWeek
• When was it founded?
  Early 20th century.
• Who founded it?
  The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA).

History of Dental Hygienist Week

The concept of honoring dental hygienists dates back to the early 20th century when Irene Newman became the first trained dental hygienist in 1907. The ADHA established this celebration to raise awareness about oral health and recognize the critical role of hygienists in preventive care. Over time, the week has evolved into a platform for education, community outreach, and appreciation for these professionals.

Timeline

• 1907: Irene Newman becomes the first dental hygienist.
• 1913: The first school for dental hygienists is founded by Dr. Alfred Fones in Connecticut.
• 1917: Irene Newman receives the first dental hygienist license.
• 1923: The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is formed.
• 1950: Canada establishes its first dental hygiene program at the University of Toronto.
• 2013: Direct access for dental hygienists is introduced in many regions, allowing them to work independently.

Dates for Next Years (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 6–12	Sunday–Saturday
2026	April 5–11	Sunday–Saturday
2027	April 4–10	Sunday–Saturday
2028	April 9–15	Sunday–Saturday
2029	April 8–14	Sunday–Saturday
2030	April 7–13	Sunday–Saturday

Observed

Dental Hygienist Week is observed through various activities such as:

• Hosting oral health workshops.
• Community outreach programs.
• Social media campaigns using #DentalHygienistWeek.
• Celebrations within dental offices to appreciate hygienists.

Fun Facts About Dental Hygienists

• The first professional dental hygienist was trained over a century ago.
• Dental hygienists are skilled in preventive care, including cleaning teeth, applying fluoride treatments, and educating patients on oral hygiene.
• They can work independently in some regions, providing greater access to care.
• Purple is often associated with Dental Hygienist Week as a symbol of oral health awareness.

Quiz

1. Who was the first licensed dental hygienist?

• a) Alfred Fones
• b) Irene Newman
• c) Esther Wilkins

1. What year was the ADHA founded?

• a) 1917
• b) 1923
• c) 1950

1. What is the primary focus of a dental hygienist’s role?

• a) Tooth extraction
• b) Preventive care and education
• c) Orthodontic procedures

Answers:
1: b) Irene Newman; 2: b) 1923; 3: b) Preventive care and education.

FAQs

1. Why is Dental Hygienist Week celebrated in April?
   It aligns with National Oral Health Month, emphasizing renewal and commitment to oral health.
2. Can dental hygienists work independently?
   Yes, in some regions they can practice without dentist supervision under specific regulations.
3. What’s the significance of purple during this week?
   Purple symbolizes oral health awareness and appreciation for dental professionals.

Related

• National Oral Health Month (April).
• World Smile Day (October).
• National Dentist’s Day (March).