Dental hygienists are oral health professionals who work under the supervision of licensed dentists. Along with teaching patients proper oral hygiene, they may conduct patient assessments, oral inspections, and teeth cleanings. Hygienists may work in either general or specialty dental clinics but may also find employment in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. Dental hygienists must take precautions to prevent the spread of infectious disease and when working with x-rays. Many hours standing or leaning over patients is often required.

Career Requirements

Degree Level	Associate's degree; bachelor's and master's degree programs are available for advancement
Degree Field	Dental hygiene
Licensure	License required in all states
Key Skills	Dexterity, physical stamina, interpersonal, decision-making, and critical-thinking skills, knowledge of dental software, experience with dental tools and machines
Salary (2014)	$71,520 per year (Median salary for all dental hygienists)

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*Net OnLine

Step 1: Get an Undergraduate Degree

Dental hygienists usually hold an associate's degree, such as an Associate of Applied Science, in dental hygiene. Two-year degree programs are available at community colleges, vocational institutes, or dental schools. Students are prepared for careers through both classroom and clinical instruction. Courses may include oral pathology, dental materials, radiology, infection control, pain management, periodontics, community dental health, and pharmacology.

Success Tips:

• Develop solid interpersonal skills. Dental hygienists work with patients on a daily basis and often have to explain dental procedures. Hygienists must also be compassionate since patients may be in severe pain or be fearful of dental procedures. Working with instructors and students in clinical courses can help to strengthen these skills.
• Learn to use good body mechanics. Dental hygienists are at high risk of occupational injury due to long periods of being in awkward physical positions when working with patients. While in school, be sure to get training on the risks and preventative techniques that can help keep you healthy. If your school doesn't have a body mechanics course, there may be options online.

Step 2: Get Licensed

Dental hygienists must be licensed in all U.S. states. Eligibility requirements vary, but nearly all states call for applicants to hold postsecondary credentials from accredited dental hygiene programs. Other requirements can include CPR certification, school transcripts, and/or letters of recommendation. Qualified candidates sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, a written exam administered by the American Dental Association, and then complete a regional or state clinical board examination.

Step 3: Consider an Advanced Degree

While associate's degrees are enough for most dental hygienist positions, some hygienists earn higher degrees as a way to advance their careers. Bachelor's and master's degrees in dental hygiene may qualify hygienists for careers beyond the dental office, such as in teaching and research. Additionally, advanced degrees may be necessary for some positions in public health or school clinics.

Soruce:

Aspiring dental hygienists have several options when committed to entering the profession. These options depend on where you plan to practice and vary from studying for the exam informally to full-fledged, targeted degree programs. Some states require the more formal approach, including graduation from an accredited dental hygienist program.

The following guide breaks down the dental hygienist career itself, as well as variety of paths available to enter the field. In addition to basics, it also addresses critical issues you may face along the way, including: What topics are covered on the NBDHE? What can I do with a master’s degree in dental hygiene? What salary should I expect to earn in my state?

What does a dental hygienist do?

Dental hygienists do much more than just clean teeth. They also look for signs of oral diseases, provide preventative dental care and educate patients on how to take care of their teeth and keep their smiles healthy. Depending on the state, dental hygienists may also be licensed to perform other tasks under supervision of the dentist.

Many dental hygienists work part-time or for multiple dentists. This allows the flexibility and convenience to build their own schedule. And because most dental offices are open select hours, dental hygienists enjoy regular hours and rarely have to work in the evenings or on weekends.

What kind of skills are required?

Dental hygienists are compassionate with great communication skills as they work closely with both the dentist and patients. Because there are very specific rules and procedures, they must be detail-oriented as they work with the dentist to diagnose and treat patients. Dental hygienists must have excellent manual dexterity in order to work in the small confines of a person’s mouth. They must also have patience and empathy for the nervous patient, working with others in the office to help put patients at ease. 

 What is the salary of dental hygienists?

You know that you want a career in the dental field and now you know how to become a dental hygienist. But it’s also important to know what the financial rewards are of a new career. Will the education and training be worth the pay-out? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for dental hygienists is about $70,000 with the top 10 percent in the field bringing home more than $96,000. Graduates of some of the top dental hygiene schools or those who work in specialized dental practices can expect to earn even more.

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