How to Become a Dental Hygienist Online
Dental hygienists have a wide variety of roles in a dental office. They take patient history; provide oral care information, preventive tips, routine teeth cleaning, and preliminary exams; and assist the licensed dentist during routine and emergency procedures. Students can learn and obtain the needed education on line to become a dental hygienist, with several programs and degrees to choose from. A dental hygienist can work in a choice of venues: public health clinics, dental offices, dental schools and dental educational programs.
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Instructions
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Research and compare online dental hygienist schools that are accredited by the American Dental Association Commission of Dental Accreditation and offer the diploma, certificate, associate's or bachelor degree that you wish to obtain. Find a school with a campus nearby that will provide you with the necessary hands-on clinical experience and lab modules, and offers job placement opportunities upon graduation.
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Apply to one or more accredited online dental hygienist schools. Ask for their information packet or catalog with course curriculum, application forms and instructions. Find out about financial aid assistance or payment programs, if needed. Generally the candidate requirements are: fluent in English, high school diploma or GED and at least 18 years old.
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Work or volunteer at a dental office as a dental hygienist assistant or helper. Additional clinical training is beneficial while working towards an online degree. Look into area high school or volunteer health programs that can provide this opportunity.
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Become a licensed dental hygienist (LDH) after graduating from an accredited online school and passing the state licensure examination. An Associate of Applied Science degree in dental hygiene will provide the basic requirements for finding an entry-level dental hygienist position.
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Become a registered dental hygienist (RDH) by passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. National registry and state licensure may be required for employment. According to the May 2008 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, dental hygienists' median annual salary is $66,570.
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Work towards obtaining a bachelor's or master's degree in dental hygiene. Online and campus-based programs are available for all or part of these degree disciplines. Advanced oral health degrees open doors to job advancements and higher earnings as researchers, educators, consultants and clinical practitioners.
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- Photo Credit Dentist at work in dental room image by Vladimir Melnik from Fotolia.com
