The aim of this study was to examine the differences in experience of the dental hygienist education between newly examined dental hygienists born abroad and born in Sweden. A quantitative study was performed.

The questionnaire was sent out to all dental hygienist (n=162) examined in Sweden 2006, except newly examined dental hygienists in Karlstad University which is a distance education. The number who answered after the reminder was 102 respondents, 24 born abroad and 78 born in Sweden. The questionnaire contained 20 open and closed questions.

The result of this study showed that there was no significant difference between respective groups concerning the experiences of the dental hygienist education. The majority answered that the teachers were accommodating and that a good solidarity existed between the classmates. The respondents stated that the communications between the teachers and classmates were positive. Most of the respondents in respective group find that the education fulfilled there expectations.

The conclusion of this study was that the majority of the newly examined dental hygienists 2006 had a positive vision about the dental hygienist education.