Dental Hygienist

What do dental hygienists do?

Dental hygienists perform a wide range of services -- primarily in preventative oral health care. Their responsibilities vary according to the specific regulations set by each state but generally include the following:

• Collecting information about the patient's oral and medical health history.
• Examining teeth and gums as well as inspecting the neck and head to identify any abnormalities or potential health problems.
• Removing calculus, stains and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth.
• Applying preventative materials, such as sealants and fluorides, to the teeth
• Taking and developing dental x-rays
• Teaching patients about good oral hygiene and nutrition
• Making molds of patients' teeth used for evaluating treatment

In some states, their roles have expanded to include:

• Placing and removing filling materials, temporary fillings and periodontal dressings
• Smoothing and polishing metal restorations
• Preparing clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests for the dentist to interpret
• Administering anesthetics

Where do dental hygienists work?

Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices. Some also work in hospitals, nursing homes and public health clinics. Some dental hygienists with advanced education and experience may teach in dental schools and dental hygiene education programs. There are also opportunities in research, office management, business administration and companies providing dental-related materials and equipment.

What kinds of hours do dental hygienists work?

Dental hygienists have very flexible schedules -- full-time, part-time, evenings and weekends. More than half of all dental hygienists work part-time (less than 35 hours per week). They may work in more than one dental office, since dentists often hire hygienists for only 2 or 3 days a week.

What do dental hygienists earn?

Earnings vary by geographic location, employment setting, level of education and years of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly earnings for dental hygienists were $24.68 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $20.46 and $29.72. The highest 10 percent earned more than $35.39 an hour. Benefits also vary greatly depending on employment setting. Dental hygienists who work for school systems, public health organizations or government agencies usually have substantial benefits. Almost all full-time dental hygienists in private practice received paid vacation while 9 out of 10 full-time and part-time dental hygienists received dental coverage.

What qualities are important in becoming a dental hygienist?

• Working well with others
• Good manual dexterity
• Skills in math and science
• Interpersonal and communication skills

What kind of education do I need to become a dental hygienist?

Either a two- or four-year degree in dental hygiene is needed. Most programs are two years long and lead to an associate degree. They are offered through community colleges and technical colleges. Dental hygiene programs at universities are typically four years long and lead to a bachelor's degree. A bachelor's offers a broader base in the humanities and other disciplines through two years of prerequisite courses such as English, speech, psychology, sociology, nutrition, chemistry and biology. An associate degree is sufficient for practicing in a private dental office, while a bachelor's or master's degree can lead to careers in research, administration, teaching or clinical practice in public or school health programs.

What are the typical prerequisites for a dental hygiene program?

Admission requirements vary from school to school but generally include the following: High school diploma or GED Minimum age of 18 High school courses in math, chemistry, biology and English A minimum 'C' average College entrance exam scores Most programs prefer applicants who have completed at least one year of college. Some bachelor's programs require two years of college prior to enrollment in a dental hygiene program as well as completion of courses in chemistry, English, speech, psychology or sociology.

Do I need a license in order to practice dental hygiene?

Dental hygienists must be licensed by the state in which they want to practice. To qualify for licensure, you need to graduate from an accredited dental hygiene program and pass written and clinical exams. Almost all states require the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination in addition to the regional or state clinical exam. Some states may require an exam on the legal aspects of dental hygiene practice. After earning licensure, dental hygienists may use "RDH" after their names to signify that they are a Registered Dental Hygienist.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is a system of evaluating and ensuring the quality of educational institutions and professional programs according to standards set by a national accrediting organization. For dental hygiene programs, that organization is the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.

Delmarva Dental Services is continually expanding with opportunities for dental hygienists. We offer scholarships to hygiene school and sign-up bonuses.