Do you have a fascination with people’s mouths? Are you amazed at how dental care works? Maybe you’re just interested in a straightforward career path in the healthcare industry?
One of the best options for those who want a great job but not years of studying and more in-depth medical education is that of a dental hygienist. It’s a respected career that offers a more direct path towards financial stability and career satisfaction.
Here are some important things you’ll want to know about becoming a dental hygienist:
What a Dental Hygienist Does
If you’re considering the idea of becoming a dental hygienist, you want to know what the job description entails.
A dental hygienist is someone who is trained to take care of the hygiene of a patient’s mouth. While your dentist is there to fix problems, so to speak, your dental hygienist is there to prevent them in the first place.
There is a reason why your dentist encourages frequent cleaning. It makes a difference in the health of your teeth and mouth. The build up of plaque is a big reason why one will get tooth decay, and your dental hygienist is there to help prevent it.
If you want to be a reason that people don’t lose their teeth, pursuing a career in dental hygiene could be right for you.
Education
Becoming a dental hygienist does require some education/training. You’ll need to find a dental hygiene program that’s accredited and that offers an associate degree. These programs will typically last about two to three years but offer both top classroom instruction, as well as hands-on experience.
If you have a local community college or technical school, these are both ideal places to find these programs, but you can also find them at some universities.
While learning how to become a dental hygienist, you’ll learn about periodontology, radiography, anatomy, and other pertinent topics to the dental industry.
You’ll also have the chance to pursue a bachelor’s degree if you’re hoping to get more senior level positions in your career and have unique roles in healthcare and health management positions. Before being able to get a job in your desired career, you’ll need to pass the National Board Hygiene Examination.
Some states or regions may have their own board exam as well. Once you’ve passed, you’ll have your license to work as a dental hygienist.
Updating Your Knowledge
While your initial program is going to provide you with the expertise you need to get certified and to become a dental hygienist, it’s important that you continue improving your skill to be up to date with the latest dental technology and device trends.
You’ll want to learn about working with those who may have implants or those with flexible partial dentures, as there are always advancements in treatments and devices in today’s dental landscape.
As you continue to do the job of a dental hygienist, continue learning the best practices so that you can be the best hygienist possible. Your patients will thank you and your skill will be in high demand.
Job Opportunities
Obviously, one of the first places where you can get a job as a licensed dental hygienist is at a dental clinic. From schools to public clinics to private hospitals, there are opportunities available to the educated dental hygienist who is ready to sink their teeth into their career.
However, there are other job opportunities available to the individual who is educated in the dental hygiene industry. From research positions to pharmaceutical jobs and healthcare administration, you may find that your career path leads you to new opportunities you never expected.
In Conclusion
Does a career in dental hygiene appeal to you? Start doing the research today in your state to discover the educational programs that can set you on the path to the career of your dreams.
