Your Future in Dental Hygiene

When you step onto South College’s Nashville campus, the first thing you may notice is the lively hum of students, faculty, and patients heading in and out of the Dental Clinic. It’s not just a clinic — it’s a hub of learning, community service, and professional growth.
For this episode of Live From South College, Tammy Fisher, Director of Dental Hygiene and Assistant Professor, along with two of her students, Katya Martinez and Curstyn Molloy, explore how our dental programs are shaping confident, compassionate professionals.
Meeting the Need for Dental Professionals
“There’s never been a better time to enter the dental profession,” Ms. Fisher shared. Across Tennessee, a statewide shortage of dental assistants, hygienists, and even dentists means opportunities are plentiful. At South College, students can choose among three clear pathways: 
– Certificate in Dental Assisting 
– Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene (entry-level licensure) 
– Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, opening doors to education, research, public health, or sales.
While most graduates start out in private practice, a bachelor’s degree lets them branch into areas like the VA, Indian Health Services, or community outreach.
Dental Hygiene vs. Dental Assisting: What’s the Difference?
Ms. Fisher often hears confusion about these roles. Dental assistants support dentists and hygienists with sterilization, radiology, sealants, and chairside care. Hygienists, on the other hand, are licensed providers who perform oral cancer screenings, periodontal therapy, radiographs, whitening, and more — far beyond just “cleaning teeth.”
“Assisting is a fantastic entry point,” Ms. Fisher said. “Many hygienists start as assistants, get inspired, and decide to advance.”

Learning in a Real-World Clinic
The public-facing Dental Clinic is one of the Nashville campus’s crown jewels. Students gain hands-on experience while offering affordable services: 
– Cleanings, sealants, and whitening trays 
– Oral cancer screenings and radiographs 
– Comprehensive exams by supervising dentists 
Cleanings cost only $20 for adults ($12 for kids), and veterans are always free. The only catch? Bring patience — appointments take longer because every step is supervised.
Building a Tribe: Support That Lasts a Lifetime
One hallmark of the Dental Hygiene program is its tight-knit culture. “It’s intentional,” Ms. Fisher said. From orientation to graduation, faculty foster curiosity, community service, and evidence-based care — all while encouraging friendships that last well beyond school.
Graduation day is an emotional highlight, Ms. Fisher added, recalling how the crowd at the Grand Ole Opry erupted when a beloved faculty member earned her master’s degree.
Students Speak: Why They Chose South College
Katya Martinez and Curstyn Molloy came to dental hygiene with prior experience in dentistry — and big ambitions.
“A smile holds so much of a person’s story,” Katya said. “I want to educate, build trust, and serve my community — especially Spanish-speaking patients.”
For Curstyn, flexibility and convenience sealed the deal: “South College let me complete prerequisites online while working as an assistant. That made the transition doable.”
Lessons from the Clinic
Both students admit their first patient was nerve-wracking, but they quickly found joy in seeing real progress.
“When patients return and you see their oral health improve — that’s the most rewarding part,” Curstyn shared.
Katya agreed: “Some patients have never owned a toothbrush or learned to floss. Educating them and seeing their gratitude is incredible.”
Looking Ahead
After graduation and licensure, Katya hopes to combine public health work with mission trips and private practice. Curstyn wants to continue helping patients thrive — and maybe inspire the next generation of hygienists.
Their advice for aspiring students? Shadow a dental office, visit a school clinic, and be ready to work hard. “It’s not just about cleaning teeth,” Katya said. “You’ll grow as a professional — and as a person.”
Life Beyond the Chair
Even the busiest students make time for fun. Katya loves hosting themed get-togethers and bingeing ’80s and ’90s movies, while Curstyn finds balance in reading, writing, music, and family time.
Ms. Fisher, too, enjoys hiking, kayaking, and reading — all part of the energy she brings back to her students.
A Future Full of Bright Smiles
From affordable community care to a robust, evidence-based curriculum, South College’s Nashville Dental programs offer more than just technical skills. They cultivate resilience, teamwork, and a passion for helping others. 
As Ms. Fisher put it: “Wherever you start, keep learning and keep going.” 
For those ready to embark on a fulfilling career, the Nashville Dental Clinic — and its warm, welcoming tribe — might be the perfect place to begin.