Open Wide: A Career in Dental Hygiene |
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October 3, 2005
By Kathy A. Johnson
kathy.johnson@healthcare-programs.com
Health Care Programs Columnist
Dental hygienists are best known as the people who clean teeth. While that is their main job duty, they also instruct patients in good oral hygiene practices, prepare diagnostic tests for the dentist, and often assist the dentist in treatments.
Dental hygienists examine patients' teeth and gums, use instruments to clean and polish teeth, and apply anti-cavity fluorides or sealants to teeth. They may also take x-rays, or administer anesthetics by syringe. Dental hygienists should enjoy working with people, and be good at communication since they will explain procedures, give advice, and answer questions.
Flexible Hours
Dental hygienists have great flexibility in work schedules. Full-time, part-time, evening and weekend hours are all available. Some dental hygienists work more than one job, since dentists often need them only two or three times per week.
Job prospects are excellent - in fact, dental hygienists are expected to be one of the fastest growing professions through 2012. Pay rates range from less than $17.34 per hour, all the way to more than $39.24 per hour. Education, experience, and geographic location all influence pay rates.
Education
Dental hygienists must graduate from an accredited school of dental hygiene, and pass a written and clinical exam in order to be licensed by the state in which they practice. In 2002, 265 accredited programs existed. Most dental hygiene programs issue an associate degree or certificate. Dental hygienists who want to teach, work in research, or work in public or school health programs often need a bachelor's or master's degree.
Dental hygienists' professional services help people protect their teeth and gums, and ultimately their overall health. The rewards of helping people, job flexibility, good pay, and excellent job prospects make dental hygiene a career worth checking out.
Sources:
2004-2005 Occupational Outlook Handbook
American Dental Hygienists Association
About the Author
Kathy A. Johnson has written articles on health, fitness, and many other topics in her career as a freelance writer and editor. She lives in Florida, and is the features editor of Forum, a bimonthly publication of the national mothers group, Mothers & More.
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