With the right understanding, anyone can become a dental hygienist. It’s just that the previous education you received won’t be fully applicable. We have eliminated all the guesswork for you so that you can get help. Through our in-depth research, we have found out what is required to learn how to become a dental hygienist if you already have a degree.
Collegelearners has written an article with clear steps which you need to follow in order to become a career in dental hygiene if you already have a bachelor’s degree.
Dental hygienists require an associate degree in dental hygiene and state licensure. Those who want to advance in their career should consider a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene. This website provides information about how to become a dental hygienist, why this career field is desirable and the salary earned by dental hygienists in different regions.
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What Does a Dental Hygienist Do
A dental hygienist is a licensed dental professional who works in a dentist’s office and is responsible for providing oral health services. For many of us, the idea of going back to school is daunting and we’d rather just daydream about it. But don’t let your imagination hold you back! You can become an accomplished dental hygienist with the right training.
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Working side-by-side with a dentist, a dental hygienist’s primary concern is with the preventative oral healthcare of their patients. They clean teeth, examine gums, collect medical history, and educate their patients on oral care techniques.
Dental hygienist duties
Specific job responsibilities of dental hygienists include:
- Using tools such as scrapers and polishers to remove tartar, plaque, and stains.
- Applying preventative treatments such as fluoride and sealants.
- Taking and developing X-rays of the mouth.
- Recording findings during cleanings and reporting information to the dentist.
- Assisting the dentist during procedures with tasks like administering anesthesia and removing sutures.
Dental Hygiene
Dental hygienists help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by cleaning teeth with a variety of instruments and tools. They might apply sealants or fluoride, take X-rays or teach patients strategies to manage their oral health. Each state regulates the practice of dental hygienists, and in some states, the hygienist may place temporary fillings or perform other dentistry tasks. All states require that dental hygienists have licenses, although requirements vary.
Dental Hygienist Educational Requirements
Although certificate and bachelor’s programs are routes to this occupation, most dental hygienists have an associate degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Master’s degrees are also available but not very common among hygienists. The associate degree or — in some states — a certificate, is usually acceptable to work in a dentist’s office, but research or teaching will likely require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. A public or school health program may also demand a higher degree.
Employment is expected to increase by 37% from now until 2024. Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics[3] That’s a lot of opportunity for those who earn their Dental Hygiene degree. But it’s not as simple as graduating from high school and walking straight into a job. In fact, the path to a career as a Dental Hygienist includes two years at a community college or technical school, followed by two years at a dental hygienist school. Then you must pass a state licensing exam before you can practice as a Dental Hygienist.