Preparedness of Dental Hygiene Students for Clinical Practice: A Scoping Review

INTRODUCTION: Dental hygienists (DHs) play a crucial role in promoting oral health and prevention of dental diseases. Dental hygiene educational programs must ensure that the future workforce is prepared for delivering effective and high-quality oral care to communities. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this scoping review is to explore the published literature to identify gaps in the preparedness of dental hygiene students. METHODS: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, ProQuest Central, CINAHL, and Embase, covering studies published from 1st January 2000 to 31st December 2025. Keywords and MeSH terms related to preparedness, dental hygiene students, and clinical practice guided the search. Data were synthesised narratively. RESULTS: Ten studies published between 2012 and 2023 were identified from Canada (30%), the United States (30%), Finland (10%), Australia (20%), and New Zealand (10%). Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were employed. Studies focused on a wide range of attributes of dental hygiene students including clinical skills (70%), communication skills (80%), cultural competence (30%), adaptability (50%), professional resilience (30%), and policy use and advocacy (40%). Gaps were noted in research use, policy engagement, and advocacy, with graduates reporting low confidence in these areas. Baccalaureate programs provided broader preparation than diploma programs, though both lacked sufficient applied learning experiences. CONCLUSIONS: The review highlighted several gaps in the teaching and training of dental hygiene students in multiple countries. The findings underscore the need for educators and regulators to address these educational shortfalls to facilitate a smooth transition of dental hygiene students into professional practice.