Resources for Dental Hygienists Abroad | Continuing Education Abroad

Fulfilling your dental hygiene continuing education (CE) requirements while living and working abroad is entirely possible. Whether you’re seeking in-person workshops, international conferences, or online courses, there are opportunities to stay licensed, grow professionally, and connect with fellow dental hygienists.

This guide combines conferences, associations, and practical resources, including the European EARDH conference, to help you plan your continuing education journey.

Looking to explore working abroad as a dental hygienist? Start here: Dental Hygienists Abroad

International and European CE Opportunities

EARDH Annual Conference

The European Association of Registered Dental Hygienists (EARDH) hosts an annual conference that’s perfect for dental hygienists working abroad. Attendees earn CEUs while participating in:

• Hands-on workshops, e.g., bleaching tray fabrication and whitening techniques
• Clinical updates, including periodontal classification and Silver Diamine Fluoride
• Networking and round-table discussions with colleagues from Germany, Switzerland, and the U.S.
• Well-being and professional development sessions, like Qi Gong and stress management workshops

Even though the 2020 edition faced pandemic restrictions, it demonstrated how EARDH events provide practical skills, CEUs, and valuable networking for international hygienists.

Tip: For upcoming conferences, check the EARDH website for dates and registration details.

Other European CE Options

• Deutscher Diplom Dental Hygienikerinnen Verband e.V. (DDDHV): Yearly conference and newsletter (German-language)
• Zukunft Prophylaxe: Weekend seminars with a focus on advanced hygiene practices (TBA)
• EAZF: Offers bridge courses for dental assistants transitioning to dental hygiene roles

Switzerland

• Zurich Dental Hygiene Study Club (IDPS): CPR re-certification, monthly and yearly CEU events
• Swiss Dental Hygienists Association: Yearly conferences and ongoing professional development

Broader International Opportunities

• IFDH – International Federation of Dental Hygienists: Symposiums, international updates, and professional resources
• ISDH – International Symposium on Dental Hygiene: Held every two years, ideal for networking and learning globally
• FDI Oral Health Campus: Free international courses in dental public health
• American Dental Hygienists Association offers a weekend-long annual conference. The future conference dates are also already set.
• ADHA Dental Hygiene Leadership Summit will be held virtually and is designed to help you give your career a boost.
• RDH Under One Roof is a popular conference to attend. This conference is held over one weekend.
• Florida Dental Hygiene Symposium is a meeting that will be held over various weekends. One registration covers all weekends.
• The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association. Read more info here.

Online CE Options

For remote or home-based learning, several platforms provide flexible CEU opportunities:

• Netce.com: Affordable Florida CEU packages
• Dentalcare.com: Over 150 professional courses free of charge
• myTEFL, TEFLPros, TEFL Academy: For hygienists interested in teaching English abroad (dual skill-building opportunity)

Tip: Many online courses are accepted internationally, but always verify with your licensing body.

Professional Associations & Networking Abroad

Joining associations and study groups can accelerate your career and keep your CE requirements up to date:

• Language Learning: Local language skills are essential. For example, Deutsche Welle offers German learning resources.
• Local Licensing & Immigration: Check official government sites. Your CE activities may impact licensing and recognition abroad.
• Networking Groups: Associations provide mentorship, study groups, and job leads. Leveraging these strategically can help you thrive internationally.

Pro Tip: Use your CEU events as networking opportunities — many hygienists abroad report finding job openings or collaborative projects this way.

Practical Tips for Planning CE Abroad

• Plan Ahead: Schedule conferences and workshops around your travel and work commitments.
• Track Your CEUs: Keep detailed records for licensing audits.
• Diversify Your Learning: Mix hands-on workshops, online courses, and international conferences.
• Engage with Peers: Round-table discussions and professional retreats are excellent ways to stay connected.

Summary

By combining conferences, online courses, and professional associations, you can maintain your license, stay updated on best practices, and grow your international dental hygiene career. Whether attending EARDH in Germany, taking a Swiss study club course, or exploring online CEUs, opportunities abound for hygienists abroad.

Photo courtesy of NeONBRAND on Unsplash