Ready to stop asking for permission and start creating the career (and care) you’ve always wanted? This webinar is your launchpad to greater professional freedom, autonomy, and impact. This eye-opening panel discussion brings together bold and visionary dental hygienists who are redefining what it means to practice at the top of their license—through , public health, medical-dental integration, self-regulation, and independent practice. These trailblazing professionals will share real-world stories from the frontlines, providing firsthand insight into how they are expanding access to care, driving innovation, and shaping a more equitable oral health system. 
 
We will break down what autonomy truly means for dental hygienists today—from clinical decision-making to care delivery in diverse settings. Whether you’re looking to elevate your practice, broaden your career opportunities, or help move the profession forward, you’ll leave this session with a renewed sense of purpose, practical tools to increase your influence, and the inspiration to turn ideas into action. 
 
The future of dental hygiene is being written—be part of the story. 

In this webinar you will:

• Define professional autonomy and explain how it impacts patient care, career growth, and the future of dental hygiene. 
• Describe the pathways that dental hygienists have taken to practice autonomously in a wide variety of settings.  
• Identify common challenges and opportunities associated with expanding access to care through diverse models. 
• Discuss the role of policy, licensure, and collaboration in supporting autonomous dental hygiene practices. 
  

Can't attend live? The recording will be automatically available in your CE Smart Learning Center within 24 hours post-event. 1.5 CE can be earned after successful completion of a post-test.



The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.