10 Dental Hygiene Books That Will Sharpen Your Skills and Confidence

Featuring expert recommendations from Demetra Logothetis, Olga Ibsen, and Michele Darby, these Dental Hygiene Books deliver practical knowledge and exam-ready insights.

Updated on June 23, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

What if you could pinpoint the exact books that leading dental hygiene educators turn to for clinical mastery and exam success? Dental hygiene isn’t just about cleanings; it’s a complex blend of science, patient care, and evolving protocols. With oral health increasingly linked to overall wellness, staying sharp in this field matters more than ever.

Experts like Demetra Logothetis, who has spent over two decades teaching local anesthesia to hygienists, and Olga A. C. Ibsen, who specializes in oral pathology, have shaped some of the most insightful resources tailored for dental hygienists. Michele Leonardi Darby’s work on exam preparation has guided countless students through challenging certification processes, offering clarity and confidence.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks and knowledge, readers seeking content tailored to their specific background, skill level, and goals might consider creating a personalized Dental Hygiene book that builds on these insights and fits your unique learning path.

Best for mastering anesthesia techniques
Demetra Logothetis, Professor and Vice Chair at the University of New Mexico's Department of Dental Medicine, brings over two decades of teaching experience to this specialized guide. Her commitment to educating dental hygienists on local anesthesia shines through in this book, crafted to ease the transition from theory to practice. With numerous awards recognizing her excellence and leadership, she offers a resource grounded in both academic rigor and practical application.
Local Anesthesia for the Dental Hygienist book cover

by Demetra Daskalo Logothetis RDH MS··You?

2021·408 pages·Dental Hygiene, Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, Injection Techniques, Patient Care

Unlike most dental hygiene texts that skim over anesthesia, this book zeroes in on local anesthesia with clarity and precision tailored for dental hygienists. Drawing from her extensive teaching career, Demetra Logothetis breaks down complex pharmacology and injection techniques into digestible segments, supported by over 400 full-color photos and detailed anatomical drawings. You'll find chapter-ending review questions, case studies, and access to procedural videos that reinforce both theory and practice. Whether you're building confidence administering anesthesia or preparing for licensure exams, this volume offers a focused, approachable guide designed specifically for your clinical realities.

Selected for Doody’s Core Titles® 2024 with Essential Purchase designation
View on Amazon
Best for enhancing diagnostic skills
Olga A. C. Ibsen, a recognized expert in dental hygiene and oral pathology, lends her extensive knowledge to this book, crafting a resource that fits the dental hygienist's role precisely. Her educational background and contributions to the field shape a text that helps you navigate the complexities of oral pathology with confidence, supported by clinical images and review questions that reinforce learning throughout.
Oral Pathology for the Dental Hygienist book cover

by Olga A. C. Ibsen RDH MS, Scott Peters DDS··You?

2022·416 pages·Oral Pathology, Dental Hygiene, Clinical Diagnostics, Radiography, Disease Identification

What sparks debate in this field is how dental hygienists engage with oral pathology, and Olga A. C. Ibsen alongside Scott Peters directly addresses this by tailoring pathology knowledge specifically for hygienists. You’ll learn to identify and assess oral diseases through clinical photos, radiographs, and pathology tables designed to clarify complex lesions and cellular changes. This book goes beyond theory by aligning content with national board exam expectations, making it a fit for students and practicing hygienists looking to deepen diagnostic skills. Chapters include clear learning objectives and review questions that sharpen your understanding of critical oral health conditions.

Selected for Doody’s Core Titles® 2024 in Dental Hygiene & Auxiliaries
View on Amazon
Best for personal skill mastery
This AI-created book on dental hygiene is crafted based on your experience level, specific interests, and professional goals. By sharing what aspects of dental hygiene you want to focus on, this personalized guide zeroes in on the skills and knowledge that matter most to you. It’s designed to provide exactly the targeted insights and practical advice you need to advance your expertise efficiently.
2025·50-300 pages·Dental Hygiene, Oral Anatomy, Infection Control, Patient Communication, Clinical Procedures

This tailored book provides a personalized framework focused on mastering essential dental hygiene skills applicable to your specific background and goals. It offers a detailed exploration of fundamental topics, including oral anatomy, infection control, patient communication, and clinical procedures, while integrating targeted strategies to enhance practical competence. The content cuts through generic advice by fitting your unique context, emphasizing core skills critical for clinical success and patient care. It addresses both foundational knowledge and hands-on techniques, supporting the development of a comprehensive, personalized approach to dental hygiene practice that aligns with your learning needs and professional aspirations.

Tailored Framework
Clinical Competency
1,000+ Happy Readers
Michele Leonardi Darby is a renowned expert in dental hygiene, holding both BSDH and MS degrees. With extensive experience in education and practice, she has authored several influential texts in the field, making significant contributions to the training of dental hygiene professionals. Her work is widely recognized for its depth and clarity, helping students prepare effectively for their examinations.
864 pages·Dental Hygiene, Certification Exam, Study Guides, Sample Questions, Clinical Practice

When Michele Leonardi Darby shifted her approach to dental hygiene education, she crafted this book to reflect the latest research and exam requirements, reshaping how students prepare for the RDH certification. You gain not only a thorough review of essential dental hygiene topics but also access to 800 sample questions with detailed rationales, helping you understand not just what the correct answers are, but why. This resource suits those gearing up for professional certification, offering a structured outline format that supports efficient study and retention. If you want a focused, exam-tailored review grounded in contemporary practice, this book fits the bill without unnecessary complexity.

View on Amazon
Jill S. Nield-Gehrig, a distinguished educator and expert in periodontal therapy, brings years of teaching and clinical experience to this book. Her focus on evidence-based practices and the critical role of periodontal health in overall patient care shapes the content, making it a valuable guide for those pursuing dental hygiene. This foundation supports students and clinicians aiming to confidently navigate periodontal concepts and apply them in practice.
Foundations of Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist, Enhanced book cover

by Jill S. Gehrig, Daniel E. Shin, Donald E. Willmann··You?

2020·880 pages·Dental Hygiene, Periodontics, Periodontal Therapy, Disease Classification, Clinical Practice

What sparked debate in this book is its detailed outline format, which diverges from traditional narrative styles common in dental hygiene texts. Jill S. Nield-Gehrig, drawing on her extensive clinical and teaching experience, presents periodontal anatomy, disease processes, and classification in a way that prioritizes clarity and easy referencing. You gain concrete understanding of how periodontal therapy fits into dental hygiene practice, supported by evidence-based updates reflecting the evolving role of hygienists. This approach is especially useful if you want to deepen your clinical confidence and grasp of complex periodontal concepts without wading through dense prose.

View on Amazon
Best for integrating nutrition knowledge
Cynthia Stegeman brings a rare combination of expertise as a registered dental hygienist, dietitian, and certified diabetes educator to this guide. Her leadership role as dental hygiene program chair at the University of Cincinnati anchors the book’s authoritative approach. This depth of experience shapes a resource that directly links nutrition to oral health, designed specifically to support dental hygienists in both education and clinical settings.
The Dental Hygienist's Guide to Nutritional Care book cover

by Cynthia A. Stegeman RDH EdD RDN LD CDE FAND, Judi Ratliff Davis MS CNSD RD LD··You?

2018·464 pages·Dental Hygiene, Nutrition, Patient Education, Oral Health, Biochemistry

Drawing from her extensive credentials as a registered dental hygienist, dietitian, and certified diabetes educator, Cynthia Stegeman crafted this guide to bridge the gap between nutrition and dental care. You'll gain a clear understanding of how nutritional principles directly impact oral and systemic health, with chapters that dive into biochemistry and the oral effects of vitamins and minerals. For example, the text offers practical patient education strategies and case studies that show how to assess and plan care based on nutritional status. This book is particularly useful if you're preparing for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination or looking to enhance your clinical approach with nutrition-focused insights.

Selected for Doody’s Core Titles® 2024 in Dental Hygiene & Auxiliaries
View on Amazon
Best for daily skill building
This AI-created book on dental hygiene is crafted specifically for your current skill level and learning goals. You share which clinical and theoretical areas you want to improve, and it delivers daily actionable steps designed just for you. Personalization makes perfect sense here because dental hygiene requires precise skills and knowledge that vary widely by experience and focus. This way, you avoid irrelevant content and get a clear, tailored path to rapid skill improvement over 30 days.
2025·50-300 pages·Dental Hygiene, Clinical Procedures, Patient Assessment, Oral Anatomy, Infection Control

This personalized book provides a detailed, day-by-day plan designed to sharpen both clinical and theoretical dental hygiene skills. It offers a tailored approach that cuts through generic advice by focusing exclusively on actionable steps relevant to your current expertise and learning objectives. The content covers foundational topics such as patient assessment and oral anatomy, progressing toward advanced clinical procedures and evidence-based care strategies. Emphasizing efficient skill acquisition, it integrates practical exercises and reflections to reinforce knowledge and clinical confidence. By concentrating on a personalized framework, this book fits your specific context, making the path to mastery clear and attainable within 30 days.

Tailored Blueprint
Clinical Skill Optimization
3,000+ Books Created
Best for understanding professional ethics
Phyllis L. Beemsterboer RDH MS EdD is a recognized expert in dental hygiene education, with extensive experience as an author and speaker. She has dedicated her career to advancing the field through academia and professional literature. This book reflects her commitment to helping you grasp the ethical and legal complexities of dental hygiene, equipping you with practical knowledge to face real-world challenges effectively.
Ethics and Law in Dental Hygiene book cover

by Phyllis L. Beemsterboer RDH MS EdD··You?

2016·216 pages·Dental Hygiene, Ethics, Law, Professionalism, Case Studies

When Phyllis L. Beemsterboer first recognized the growing complexity of ethical and legal challenges faced by dental hygienists, she crafted this book to bridge the gap between theory and practice. You’ll explore detailed case studies and updated content addressing workforce models and healthcare reforms, helping you understand how to navigate professionalism and patient rights in daily clinical settings. Chapters on ethics, law, and their applications provide clear frameworks, while testlets reinforce your readiness for board exams like the NBDHE. This book suits anyone preparing for licensure or aiming to confidently manage the professional dilemmas common in dental hygiene practice.

View on Amazon
Best for quick chairside reference
Renee Prajer RDH MS, an Assistant Dean at the University of New Haven, brings her extensive background in dental hygiene education and practice to this compact guide. Her academic and clinical insights shaped a resource that addresses the immediate needs of dental hygiene students and professionals alike. This book reflects her commitment to making essential clinical knowledge readily accessible, helping you navigate both classroom challenges and practical patient care with confidence.
DH Notes: Dental Hygienist's Chairside Pocket Guide book cover

by Renee Prajer RDH MS, Gwen Grosso RDH MS··You?

2017·246 pages·Dental Hygiene, Clinical Procedures, Patient Care, Infection Control, Exam Preparation

When Renee Prajer and Gwen Grosso brought their clinical expertise to this pocket guide, they reshaped how dental hygienists access critical information on the go. You’ll find concise, easily digestible clinical procedures and patient care protocols designed to be right at your fingertips during both study and practice. The waterproof, write-on/wipe-off pages make it a practical tool that withstands the rigors of infection control standards, perfect for real-world application. Whether you’re prepping for exams or need quick chairside reminders, this guide addresses the daily realities of dental hygiene work without overwhelming you with unnecessary detail. If your focus is on efficient, accessible clinical support, this is a resource that fits seamlessly into your workflow.

View on Amazon
Best for comprehensive clinical skills
Esther M. Wilkins is a renowned educator in dental hygiene, known for her contributions to the field and her role at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Her work has significantly influenced dental hygiene education, making her a respected figure among students and professionals alike. This book reflects her deep expertise and commitment to equipping dental hygienists with the essential knowledge and skills needed for effective, evidence-based oral health care today.
2016·1252 pages·Dental Hygiene, Oral Health, Patient Care, Risk Assessment, Motivational Interviewing

When Esther Wilkins first reshaped dental hygiene education, she challenged traditional teaching by emphasizing evidence-based practice tailored to today's dynamic oral health landscape. In this book, you’ll gain concrete skills ranging from patient assessment and diagnosis to culturally sensitive care planning and documentation, all structured in a clear, outline format that’s easy to navigate. Chapters on motivational interviewing and risk assessment bring fresh perspectives that prepare you for diverse clinical environments. If you're training in dental hygiene or seeking to deepen clinical proficiency with practical, up-to-date knowledge, this book offers focused guidance without unnecessary complexity.

View on Amazon
Jane F. Halaris is a distinguished educator affiliated with the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, deeply invested in integrating practical skills with theoretical knowledge for dental hygiene students. Her extensive experience in curriculum development shines through in this workbook, designed to reinforce key concepts and prepare you thoroughly for professional practice. This book reflects her commitment to equipping students with the hands-on skills and ethical understanding necessary to thrive in dental hygiene careers.
2020·404 pages·Dental Hygiene, Clinical Practice, Patient Communication, Ethics, Critical Thinking

Designed as a companion to Wilkins’ Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist, this workbook by Jane F. Halaris and Charlotte J. Wyche offers a hands-on approach to mastering core dental hygiene skills. Drawing from Halaris's extensive experience in dental education, the book delivers varied exercises that sharpen your assessment, treatment planning, communication, and documentation abilities. Notably, chapters include Everyday Ethics scenarios and motivational interviewing techniques, helping you prepare for the nuanced challenges of patient care. If you aim to strengthen your practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, this workbook provides a structured path to doing just that.

View on Amazon
Christine M Blue BSDH MS DHSc is a renowned expert in dental hygiene education and practice, with extensive experience preparing students for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. Her deep knowledge of exam requirements shaped this detailed review, designed to equip you with the essential content and test strategies needed for success. Drawing from her background, the book distills complex information into accessible chapters, making it a practical resource for anyone aiming to pass the NBDHE.
Darby’s Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene book cover

by Christine M Blue BSDH MS DHSc··You?

2021·832 pages·Dental Hygiene, Exam Preparation, Clinical Practice, Community Health, Case Studies

When Christine M Blue, an expert in dental hygiene education, compiled this review, her goal was straightforward: to create a reliable tool that helps candidates pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) confidently. This book breaks down complex topics across scientific foundations, clinical services, and community health into an organized outline format, complete with case studies and practice questions that mirror the exam's structure. You'll find updated chapters on emerging subjects like pediatric care and electronic health records, alongside four simulated exams that sharpen your test-taking skills. It's tailored for dental hygiene students and educators aiming for a thorough, focused preparation without fluff.

Selected for Doody’s Core Titles® 2024 with Essential Purchase designation
View on Amazon

Get Your Personal Dental Hygiene Guide in 10 Minutes

Stop sifting through generic advice. Receive dental hygiene strategies tailored to your skills and goals—fast and focused.

Targeted knowledge gain
Efficient study planning
Practical skill focus

Join 15,000+ Dental Hygiene enthusiasts who've personalized their approach

The Ultimate Dental Hygiene Blueprint
30-Day Dental Hygiene Mastery
Dental Hygiene Trends 2025
The Expert's Dental Hygiene Playbook

Conclusion

These 10 books collectively highlight three clear themes: mastering clinical techniques, deepening theoretical understanding, and preparing strategically for certification exams. If you’re facing challenges in anesthesia administration, start with Demetra Logothetis’s focused guide. For rapid exam readiness, pairing Darby’s and Mosby’s reviews offers comprehensive coverage.

For those aiming to enhance patient communication and ethical decision-making, Beemsterboer’s exploration of ethics and law provides practical frameworks. Once you’ve absorbed these expert insights, create a personalized Dental Hygiene book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. This tailored approach lets you apply foundational knowledge efficiently in your practice or studies.

Taking the time to engage deeply with these resources will sharpen your skills and broaden your professional confidence. Dental hygiene is evolving, and so should your learning—these books give you a trusted foundation and the tools to stay ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene for a solid foundation, then focus on specialty areas like anesthesia or pathology based on your interests.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Dental Hygiene?

No, several books like Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist and DH Notes offer accessible content suited for beginners while supporting growth.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with general clinical practice guides, move to specialized topics like anesthesia or nutrition, and finish with exam-focused reviews for effective preparation.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can select based on your goals; for example, choose Ethics and Law if professional guidelines interest you or Darby’s Review for exam prep.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

Oral Pathology and Foundations of Periodontics lean toward theory, while DH Notes and Active Learning Workbook emphasize practical skills.

How can I apply these expert books to my specific learning needs efficiently?

While these expert books provide valuable insights, creating a personalized Dental Hygiene book tailored to your background and goals lets you focus on what matters most. Check out this personalized option for a customized learning experience.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!