How to Become a Certified Dental Hygienist in Weeks
Dental hygienists clean and polish a patient’s teeth. These professionals focus on removing tooth stains and removing plaque build up. Hygienists are also trained in using X-ray machines and developing the film to provide dental images. Dental hygienists earn generous wages. As of 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists earned median annual wages of $66,570. Prospective dental hygienists who want to expedite educational training should consider a certification program, which is the quickest education path to this career.
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Instructions
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Choose the fastest program for becoming a dental hygienist. A bachelor’s program will take four years and an associate’s degree will take two years. However, a certificate program typically takes a year or less to complete. Find an accredited program in your area by contacting the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
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Study dental hygiene. A certificate program will teach prospective dental hygienists the basics of this occupation. Expect to learn about dental anatomy and how to take X-rays. Community health, biology and chemistry will also be covered. Most states require at least a dental hygiene certificate to qualify for certification.
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Contact your state's health department to inquire about certification. Most states require these professionals to earn certification. Certification is typically earned by showing proof of program complication and passing a state administered exam. During the dental hygiene program, the school should cover the basic areas on the exam. The state department of health may offer study guide materials to aid with preparation.
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Earn re-certification. Depending on the state, re-certification may be required every two years. Completing continuing education requirements, which vary by state, will usually make you eligible for recertification. Continuing education courses are available through the American Dental Hygienist’ Association and vocational schools. Contact the state health department for local requirements.
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Tips & Warnings
Some employers will pay for continuing education. Consider returning to school to earn an associate or bachelor degree for more advancement opportunities (such as management or teaching dental hygiene).
Dental hygienists may be in contact with bodily fluids when cleaning teeth. Proper safety techniques should be used at all times to protect the hygienist.
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- Photo Credit dental instruments image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
