The Southern Illinois University Carbondale dental hygiene class of 2026 practiced laser techniques on various foods as part of specialized training, according to a May 29 announcement. The exercise allowed students to earn a special laser certification by simulating procedures they may encounter in clinical settings.
Dental hygienists at SIU receive additional training and certifications beyond the standard curriculum. SIU offers the only baccalaureate dental hygiene program in Illinois accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The recent laser training marked the third year SIU has offered this option to its students, with Jennifer S. Sherry, professor in the School of Health Sciences, coordinating alongside Stacey McKinney and Briana Erthall.
Heartland Dental University supported the event by covering BLAZE laser training costs and providing equipment through Ultradent. The Heartland “laser squad” presented both oral and hands-on instruction, while Heartland Dental University’s Campus Recruiting covered exam fees and provided breakfast for participants.
Six current students elected to complete the optional laser certification along with two alumnae who returned for the training. All participants are expected to benefit from this credential whether they work in clinical practice or public health settings, Sherry said.
In addition to laser certification, all 26 graduating dental hygiene students earned Community Dental Health Coordinator (CDHC) certificates after completing approximately 120 hours of modules during their junior and senior years. According to Sherry, “SIU has an extremely high job placement rate for its dental hygiene students, and that’s not a surprise when you consider how special it is that we offer a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program and add the extra value of these certifications.” She also said that CDHC certification helps graduates provide important services to patients who might not otherwise receive them: “It is vital for people in every city and community nationwide to have access to quality oral health care, and earning this certificate positions our graduates to provide these important dental services.” Students received their CDHC certificates on April 21 before graduating at SIU’s May 9 commencement ceremony.
