Dental Hygienist Facts
Dental hygienists are trained and licensed oral health professionals who concentrate on the prevention and treatment of teeth and gum diseases. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says there were about 167,000 dental hygienists in 2006. It is important for prospective dental hygienists to be able to communicate well with others since they will work closely with patients, dentists and dental assistants.
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Education & Training
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Although entrance requirements to dental hygiene programs can vary, they often require applicants to have completed a minimum of one year of college. Students will study subjects that include anatomy, chemistry, pharmacology and dental hygiene, among others.
The length of the curriculum depends on the specific type of work a future hygienist plans to pursue. An associate degree or a certificate in dental hygiene is the minimum requirement to work in a private dental office. If you are interested in a clinical practice in a public or school health program, engaging in research or becoming a teacher, a bachelor's or master's degree will be needed.
Licensing
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Most states require dental school graduates to pass both a written and clinical examination. The written test is given by the American Dental Association's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations administers. The clinical exam is governed by individual state or regional testing agencies.
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Job Description
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The daily routine of a dental hygienist involves the examination of patients' teeth and gums and the noting of any abnormalities or diseases. Hygienists also remove soft and hard deposits from teeth, advise patients on good oral hygiene techniques and provide other preventive dental care.
Dental hygienists use a wide variety of tools to perform their duties, including hand and rotary instruments and ultrasonic equipment for cleaning, plaque and stain removal as well as the polishing of teeth.
Work Setting
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Nearly all dental hygienists work in dentists' offices, although a handful perform their duties in doctors' offices and employment services. One desirable feature of the job is the wide assortment of full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend schedules from which to choose.
Dental hygienists must adhere to strict health safety measures, such as following proper radiological procedures and using the correct protective devices when administering anesthetic gas. Hygienists often wear safety glasses, surgical masks and gloves to guard themselves and their patients from infectious diseases.
Average Salary & Job Outlook
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics says in 2006 the median hourly wage of dental hygienists was $30.19. The lowest 10 percent were paid less than $19.45, and the top 10 percent earned more than $41.60 an hour. Earnings vary from state to state, depending on the level of experience and the employment setting.
Dental hygienists are one of the fastest growing occupations. According to government statistics, the career field is expected to grow 30 percent through 2016.
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