The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Dental Hygienists. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO DENTAL ASSISTING DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT DENTAL HYGIENISTS DO
Dental hygienists examine and clean patients’ teeth. They look for signs of oral disease, provide preventative care, and educate patients about oral health. The following is a general list of duties that dental hygienists can expect to encounter on the job.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $77,230
Top 5 States
1. Alaska
$114,790
2. California
$106,240
3. Washington
$93,200
4. New Jersey
$87,270
5. Oregon
$87,220
Bottom 5 States
50. Alabama
$48,090
49. Mississippi
$56,150
48. West Virginia
$60,340
47. Kentucky
$61,090
46. South Carolina
$63,710
STEPS TO BECOME A DENTAL HYGIENIST
The requirements to gain admission into a Dental Hygiene program vary both by state and school. There generally are a few course requirements that are needed before entering a program. Some students will have already completed a baccalaureate degree and likely will have completed the pre-requisite courses. Many dental hygiene programs are offered at community colleges and you will be able to take the pre-requisite courses there.
All states require dental hygienists to be licensed.
Some states may have additional requirements to become a licensed dental hygienist such as:
- CPR Certification
- Administration of Anesthesia Requirement
1. Enter a Dental Hygiene Program
Dental hygienists usually need an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. A program typically takes 2-3 years to complete.
2. Complete the Written Examination Requirement
Upon completion of the dental hygiene program, you will be eligible to take the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) or the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
3. Complete the Clinical Examination Requirement
4. Obtain Dental Hygienist Licensure
QUALITIES OF DENTAL HYGIENISTS
Communication Skills
Dental hygienists must share information with dentists and patients about oral health status and oral hygiene care plans.
Dexterity
Dental hygienists must be good at working with their hands. This requires fine motor skills using precise tools and instruments.
Critical Thinking
Dental hygienists must be able to assess and evaluate patients and to develop oral hygiene care plans.
Interpersonal Skills
Dental hygienists work closely with dentists. They also must be considerate in working with patients, especially with those who are sensitive to pain or who have fears about undergoing dental treatment.
Problem-Solving Skills
Dental hygienists develop and implement oral hygiene care plans to maintain or improve patients’ oral health.
Detail Oriented
Dental hygienists must follow specific rules and protocols to help dentists diagnose and treat a patient. Dental hygienists may work without the direct supervision of a dentist depending on state laws.