How to Become a Dental Hygienist
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
A dental hygienist is an oral health professional who works under the supervision of a licensed dentist. 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 part of dental hygienist requirements.
Degree Level Associate degree; bachelor’s or master’s for advancement
Degree Field(s) Dental hygiene
Licensure/Certification Licensure required in all states; voluntary certification available
Experience None
Key Skills Solid interpersonal, decision-making, and critical-thinking skills; attention to detail and dexterity; compassion
Median Annual Salary (2019) $76,220
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Dental Hygienist Career Requirements
The typical degree required is an associate degree in dental hygiene. You may consider completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree program if you are interested in advancing your career. Programs will focus on teaching you to use dental software, tools, and machines. Courses may include oral pathology, dental materials, radiology, infection control, pain management, periodontics, community dental health, and pharmacology. You’ll need to develop solid interpersonal skills; dental hygienists work with patients on a daily basis and often have to explain dental procedures. You 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. Also, you’ll need to use good body mechanics. A dentist hygienist is 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.
Other skills you need for this career include dexterity, decision-making, and critical thinking. Beyond a degree, licensing is a requirement in all states. As for what you can expect to earn in this career field, the median annual salary for dental hygienists as of 2019 is $76,220 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
How to Become a Dental Hygienist
There are two main requirements or steps for becoming a dental hygienist. The third step is also a good idea for those who wish to advance their careers:
Step 1: Get an undergraduate dental hygienist degree
Step 2: Get licensed as a dental hygienist
Step 3: Consider an advanced degree
Step 1: Get an Undergraduate Dental Hygienist Degree
Dental hygienist education requirements usually include holding an undergraduate degree. Many dental hygienists hold an associates degree, such as an Associate for 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.
What to Expect in a Dental Hygienist Program
What do you major in to become a dental hygienist? Dental hygiene is a common major for those who plan to pursue dental hygiene careers. Dental hygienist school requirements often include learning about subjects like dental anatomy, oral pathology, and oral health education. Those taking part in a dental hygienist school program can also expect a number of other more general subjects to be covered, such as general chemistry, anatomy, and physiology.
Step 2: Get Licensed as a Dental Hygienist
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.
Dental Hygienist Salary and Job Outlook
According to the BLS, jobs for dental hygienists are expected to grow by 6% over the period of time between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than average for all job fields. Dental hygienists also make a median salary of $76,220, according to BLS data. The BLS shows that the states of California, New York, and Texas offer the highest wages for dental hygienists. The mean averages for these states are $106,240, $76,960, and $76,490, respectively. In terms of yearly salary averages for other occupations in the dental industry, dental assistants earn $40,080, dentists earn $155,600, and orthodontists earn $208,000 or more per year.
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