The Dental Hygienist provides direct patient care under the general supervision of the dentist and performs other clinical and clerical functions independently of direct supervision. Basic Requirements Citizenship. Must be a Citizen of the United States. Education. Must Possess an Associate Degree or higher in an accredited dental hygiene program. This program must be accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Licensure. Must be currently licensed to practice as a dental hygienist with a full, current, and unrestricted license in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or the District of Columbia. English Language Proficiency. Must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). Grade Dete