While Some States Consider Cutting Standards, Pitt Invests in the Future of Dental Care
As states like Nevada consider lowering dental hygiene academic requirements, the University of Pittsburgh is taking a different approach by expanding access to care while maintaining educational rigor. A new Regional Training Center in Titusville, Pennsylvania, will train dental hygienists, dental assistants, and residents to serve underserved rural communities without compromising clinical standards.
At a time when some states, such as Nevada and Georgia, are proposing controversial rollbacks in dental hygiene education requirements, the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine is doubling down on quality. In a proactive move to address workforce shortages and maintain high standards of care, Pitt is launching Pennsylvania’s first Regional Training Center in Titusville in partnership with Pitt-Titusville and Titusville Area Hospital.
Set to open for patient care in July 2026, the center will provide clinical education for general practice residents, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. The initiative is a direct response to growing provider shortages, with nearly 25 million Americans — and 1.5 million Pennsylvanians — living in designated dental health professional shortage areas.
This new model doesn’t just train students, it also serves patients. Under faculty supervision, hygiene students will perform prophylaxes while dental residents deliver comprehensive care. The hybrid training format allows students to remain in their communities while completing coursework online and clinical experiences in person, increasing the likelihood they’ll stay and work locally.
With a 2-year dental hygiene baccalaureate program and a 6-month assistant training option, the center is designed to create a sustainable, community-rooted dental workforce. Rather than lower standards in the name of access, Pitt is proving that innovation and quality can and should go hand in hand. Click here to read more.
