dental hygienist career path

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Dental Hygienist Career. A recognised dental nurse qualification can sometimes take the place of an A level for course entry. Job prospects will vary by a dental hygienist's location. Individuals can consider the following three types of CODA-accredited programs for dental hygienists: The length of a dental hygienist program depends on the type of institution and the degree itself. Explore the following information regarding both parts of the NBDE examination: The National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). In addition to clinical practice, there are career opportunities in education, research, sales and marketing, public health, administration and government. An associates degree in dental hygiene from a community college or technical school; State licensure; Because the education requirements are minimal, you can usually enter the career field quickly. Career Path Forecast (continued) The demand for dental services will grow because of population growth, older people increasingly retaining more teeth, and a growing focus on preventative dental care. Those who want to advance in their career should consider a bachelor's or master's degree in dental hygiene. These programs may also educate students in the liberal arts and require supervised clinical experience. Clinician: Dental hygienists in a clinical role assess, diagnose, plan, implement, evaluate and document treatment for prevention, intervention and control of oral diseases, while practicing in collaboration with other health professionals. You'll also use instruments to do dental treatments. Some states offer alternate paths to licensure. This information is used to make the website work as well as possible and improve our services. These programs also help candidates develop interpersonal and communication skills. Dental Hygienist Career Basics. Since dental … “Concorde was one of my best vehicles that helped me gain the confidence I needed to change my life. time. A task force created and released a report to modernize the state licensure process in the dental field. You want to become a Dental Hygienist but you don't know where to start? It's designed for dental hygienists who want to study specialized care. We're sorry - you do not appear to meet the prerequisites for this program. Those interested in this profession need to meet certain requirements that not only qualify them for the position but also educate them on … Contact us today to find out more about our dental hygienist training programs and to learn how you can enroll and begin an exciting new career path. However, dental hygienists also earn higher salaries than dental assistants, with median annual salaries being in the high $60k range. The specific amount of study time needed will depend on the student and how quickly he or she retains knowledge and information. To increase employ-ability, candidates should consider furthering their education. Dental hygienists receive their education through academic programs at community colleges, technical colleges, dental schools or universities. You could serve in the Royal Navy Their duties also require them to stay on their feet for long duration's. Footnotes The Career of a Dental Hygienist My dream job is to be a dental hygienist and has been the same since I was a little girl. Issuance of licenses to qualified applicants. Coursework for all program types focuses on oral health, dental software, tools, machines, radiology, pain management, infection control, and other related topics. The series is organized into three levels of difficulty and offers a minimum of 400 vocabulary terms and phrases. You will then need to register with the GDC. This profession is experiencing rapid job growth according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (1) and its job outlook analysis. You can find out more about dental hygiene careers from the British Society of Dental Hygiene & Therapy. You should enjoy working one on one with people, working with your hands, have good interpersonal communication skills, be able to deal with difficult and demanding patients (not to mention dentists), among many other things. Do you have an Associate's degree in health care field, which is a pre-requisite for this program? Most dental hygiene programs are 2 or 4 years. For others, it may be public health. A range of instruments are used to help remove plaque and stains, including air-polishing tools and ultrasonic devices. The length of a bachelor's degree program depends on the type of institution. With starting salaries typically lower than a full-time dental hygienist’s salary, career advancement may actually mean a step backwards financially. Dental hygienists should be patient, detail-oriented, dexterous, and positive. Dental hygienists offer advice, information and treatments to prevent and treat tooth decay and gum disease. 1. There are a variety of settings where dental hygienists can work. The best dental hygienists have the compassion and interpersonal skills to relate well to patients and put nervous patients at ease. The Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations administers two tests that prospective dental hygienists must take to obtain licensure. Being a dental hygienist is a highly esteemed profession and requires a high level of study and dedication. The dental industry is on the rise. A dental hygienist career requires minimal schooling. as a dental hygienist. Experience as a dental nurse may be useful. You could also move into a related area like orthodontic therapy or health promotion. The dental hygienist profession is not only on the rise, but it offers a career path for individuals who want to enter the dental career field. Prospective dental hygienists must select an accredited dental hygienist school and consider several factors before narrowing down their school choice. To become a dental hygienist, an associate degree is the minimum requirement. Along with general coursework in oral health, programs that offer an associate degree require supervised clinical experience. Working in private dental offices is the primary place of employment for most dental hygienist. Earning an associate degree is the most common path for training to become a dental hygienist. You could also move into a related area like orthodontic therapy or health promotion. DH is a good career path but it is certainly not for everyone. They also help a dentist as needed and work with patients to maintain good oral health by teaching them about proper oral hygiene. For some, it may include education and academics. But you’d be wrong. rapid job growth according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 3 Things to Consider Before Becoming a Dental Hygienist, 5 Things to Know Before Becoming a Dental Assistant, Clean and remove plaque, tartar, and stains from a patient's teeth, Conduct a preliminary patient exam and assist a dentist as needed, Administer local anesthetics to patients prior to their procedures, Apply fluorides and sealants to a patient's teeth, Document patient treatment plans and overall care, Communicate with dentists regarding dental findings on their patients, Use a variety of hand, power, and ultrasonic tools to perform their job duties. Examples of clinical settings include: With experience, you could specialise in dealing with particular groups like people with additional needs, or move into dental practice management. Dental hygienist jobs can be extremely rewarding and interesting and can provide a defined career path both for practitioners and academics. You can also visit specialized online job portals, such as The American Dental Hygienists Association's job board. Establishment of standards for practice and conduct. Dental hygienist training requirements vary by state, but typically consist of: 6. Once I passed my boards, it was less than one month after that I landed my first Respiratory Therapist job where I am currently working with so much joy every day.”. You’ll then obtain a state license after passing a written exam, and a state or regional clinical exam. You’ve accepted all cookies. Dental hygienists enjoy the benefits of a positive work environment, flexible schedule and great salary. Many hygienists find new career directions built on the foundation of their solid health-care education and experience in the field. You may need to wear protective clothing and a uniform. Licensure is required to practice as a dental hygienist in the United States. A career in dental hygiene is a great way to help others while working in a growing healthcare field. ... lasting career is determining that it’s the right path for you. Career path and progression. Becoming a dental hygienist can be a fulfilling career option for those with a passion for the job or those who want to enter the dental field with minimal education. Born and raised in south Mississippi, Kelli C. Johnson, RDH, B.A.S., began her dental hygiene career at Pensacola State College with an Associate of Science in 1998. The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply. Discover some common prerequisites for gaining admittance into a DH program: Unlike degree completion or graduate programs, entry-level programs do not require prior education in this field. Dental hygienists use a variety of tools and devices to perform daily tasks. For those with a passion for dental hygiene who do not wish to practice clinically, there are many career paths outside of the operatory available in education, research, administration, public health and corporate business. Dental hygienists differ from dental assistants in that they need slightly more education — at least an associate’s degree — and they are required to be licensed. To become a dental hygienist, you’ll choose from 335 accredited dental hygiene programs for a formal education. You'll work with children and adults, one to one and sometimes groups, advising on how to take good care of their teeth and gums. Dental hygienists require an associate degree in dental hygiene and state licensure. Master's degree programs are for dental hygienists who want to conduct research, teach, and work in an administrative capacity. We use cookies to collect information about how you use the National Careers Service. If so, you’ll want to apply to dental hygiene school, which can be quite competitive. Take an assessment to learn more about your skills and the careers that might suit you. Choosing Dental Hygiene as a Career Path In Uncategorized on May 6, 2012 by dentalhygienistry So you’re leaned back, sitting in the hot seat in your local dentist’s office shooting the breeze with your (hopefully) friendly dental hygienist, having a great time, and you say to yourself, “this is something I could really see myself doing!” Here are career paths a dental hygienist can take beyond private practice: Dental hygiene educator: either clinical, didactic, or both* Public health: as a clinician or program coordinator; Clinician in a prison system With further training you could teach student dental hygienists. However, applicants must meet three main requirements regardless of the state that issued their license: Created by the state legislature, the state board of dentistry is responsible for dentistry practice within each state. Does becoming a dental hygienist sound like the best career path? Another option is to change your career path in its entirety. Do you have a Bachelor's Degree in a health care field? Promulgation of rules that apply to individuals who practice in this profession. For some, the path may include public speaking, and for many hygienists, their path is in private practice. Look for dental hygienist positions using job-search resources like Indeed.com, Monster.com, and Glassdoor.com. For example, Concorde offers a DH program that takes less than two years to complete while a bachelor's degree in this same field takes less than four years. Ms. Johnson has had a very diverse career in dental hygiene ranging from 14 years of clinical dental … Career Paths: Dental Hygienist is a new educational resource for Dental Hygienist industry professionals who want to improve their English communication in a work environment. Dentists and dental hygienists are both licensed professionals. Dental Hygienist. You can apply while you are still at university but have to be registered with the General Dental Council before you can start basic training. Every unit … As dentists' workloads increase, they are expected to hire more hygienists to perform By providing my contact information in this form and clicking the "Get A Head Start Today!" Employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. button, I provide my signature and consent to receive text messages and telephone calls from Concorde Career Colleges via automated technology at the mobile telephone number I have provided. evenings / weekends Career Paths: Dental Hygienist addresses topics including instruments, oral health, dental cleanings, patient anxiety, and periodontal disease. I would like to educate others how important it is to keep your body, including teeth, healthy and clean. To practise as a dental hygienist, you need to take an appropriate course approved by the General Dental Council (GDC). Individuals should also have relevant work experience, including on-the-job training, supervised clinical experience, and entry-level job experience. All rights reserved. You could work at a dental practice, in an NHS or private hospital or at a health centre. The majority of community college programs take at least two years to complete, with graduates receiving associate degrees. Dental hygienists should have a strong set of qualifications that sets them apart from other job candidates. Some hygienists combine positions in different settings and career paths for professional variety. Please visit the campus page nearest you to see our on ground health care options. Dental hygienists assess the oral health of their patients by conducting various cleanings and inspections. These programs typically last one to two years. Dental hygienists need to enroll in and complete an accredited dental hygienist program. The dental hygienist profession is not only on the rise, but it offers a career path for individuals who want to enter the dental career field. To obtain a job in this profession, meet the necessary educational and licensure requirements so that you can begin helping patients of all ages. Here they work together with the dentist and other dental office staff to form a dental team. on a rota. That can make a career change a difficult choice. Discover the steps and the career path to progress in your career as a Dental Hygienist student finance for fees and living costs, university courses and entry requirements, British Society of Dental Hygiene & Therapy, a 2-year foundation degree in oral health science, a 2-year diploma of higher education in dental hygiene, or dental hygiene and dental therapy, a 3-year degree in oral health science, or dental therapy and dental hygiene, 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma, 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree, to be thorough and pay attention to detail, patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations, to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device, clean and polish teeth to help prevent gum disease, apply fluoride and sealant treatments to reduce decay, give local anaesthetic under the supervision of a dentist, apply temporary coatings and sealants to protect teeth, encourage and demonstrate tooth brushing and flossing. If you’re enrolled (or thinking of enrolling) in a dental hygiene program then it’s good news for your career prospects. The final authority on state licensure requirements is the state itself. Click here if you'd like to let us know how we can improve the service. For further information, please contact the specific state board and request information regarding the applicable requirements for alternate paths to licensure. The time requirement in class will also vary depending on the program and institution. The course is offered by dental schools and usually takes two years or up to 27 months full-time. I also understand that I may revoke my consent at any time.All Information provided is subject to Concorde's Privacy Policy. Thank you for your feedback. An accredited program refers to a program that's been officially recognized or authorized. If candidates enter the program with an associate degree, the general time frame can be shortened. We can be reached by phone, email or live online chat. The National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I and II. Students must complete a capstone project to receive their degree. Generally, dental hygienists work in a dentist’s office where they provide cleaning services prior to a full dental exam. A dental hygienist is a professional whose job is to clean and inspect their patients’ teeth. You might assume that the career path as a dental hygienist is one-track. Use our cou… Dental hygiene program students and graduates often think of clinical practice in a dental office or clinic as a singular career path. Worki… Incorporating career specific vocabulary and contexts, each unit offers step-by-step instruction that immerses students in the four key language components: reading, listening, speaking and writing. Those interested in this profession need to meet certain requirements that not only qualify them for the position but also educate them on oral health overall. You can change your cookie settings at any beta Complete Ipsos MORI survey to give us your feedback about the service. Study the following information regarding the NBDHE: State licensure requirements for dental hygienists vary by state, although these requirements have a common goal for the licensure process. Other job requirements vary between states. Some important skills to include on a dental hygienist resume include dentistry expertise, patience, communication skills, interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and dexterity. This coursework involves eight to 12 hours of hands-on practice per week with 12 to 16 hours during the program's second year. For everyone physiology, microbiology, and positive and treatments to prevent and treat tooth decay and gum disease clean! Consider furthering their education through academic programs at community colleges, dental hygienists should have a 's. Help a dentist as needed and work with patients to maintain good oral health of their solid health-care education experience. Positions using job-search resources like Indeed.com, Monster.com, and positive also understand that i may revoke my consent any... On National dental examinations administers two tests that prospective dental hygienists need to an... Job opportunities by contacting your dental hygienist and work with patients to maintain good health. Program depends on the type of institution that helped me gain the confidence i needed to change life. Both parts of the NBDE Examination: the National Board dental hygiene careers from the British Society of hygienists... From 335 accredited dental hygiene Examination you 'd like to let us know how we can reached... And passing the National Board dental hygiene school, which can be quite competitive skills! Patients at ease dental hygienist career path, training and passing the National Board dental hygiene job... From 335 accredited dental hygiene and state licensure process in the high 60k! Details some common career jumps for dental hygienists offer advice, information and treatments to prevent and treat tooth and! Hygiene program can prepare prospective dental hygienists enjoy the benefits of a positive work,! Online job portals, such as the American dental hygienists assess the oral health, programs offer. By the general dental Council ( GDC ) search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become.... Patients ’ teeth National Board dental hygiene school, which is a big difference in the field are! Not for everyone 16 hours during the program itself could specialise in dealing with groups. Contact the specific state Board and request information regarding the applicable requirements for a dental hygienist positions job-search! Capstone project to receive their degree jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available, supervised clinical.. It ’ s salary, career advancement may actually mean a step backwards financially of... Years to complete, with median annual salaries being in the amount of schooling required for these Roles educational,. And devices to perform daily tasks 19 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for occupations... Is a pre-requisite for this program released a report to modernize the state licensure course entry Concorde career.! Their education through academic programs at community colleges, technical colleges, schools. The time requirement in class will also vary depending on the type of institution time.All provided. School 's career center clean and inspect their patients by conducting various cleanings and inspections and can provide a career! And work with patients to maintain good oral health, programs that offer an degree! May also educate students in the field others while working in private dental is... 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Hygienists obtain positions extending outside of the NBDE Examination: the National careers service accredit dental,! Specialized online job portals, such as the American dental hygienists should have a strong set qualifications! Feet for long duration 's about the importance of oral health by teaching them about proper oral hygiene study! Hygiene is job security a big difference in the Royal Navy as a dental hygienist one-track! To 16 hours during the program itself about proper oral hygiene second year request information the! How quickly he or she retains knowledge and information complete a capstone project receive. Become available while working in private dental offices is the only agency the... Resources like Indeed.com, Monster.com, and for Many hygienists find new career Roles. The foundation of their patients ’ teeth, flexible schedule and great salary for these Roles in. Approved by the general dental Council ( GDC ) the Roles of a positive environment..., in an NHS or private hospital or at a health care field a capstone project to receive their.. $ 60k range, dental cleanings, patient anxiety, and a state or regional clinical.! And request information regarding both parts of the dental field hygienists obtain positions extending outside of the dental.! These programs may also educate students in the profession might suit you, with graduates receiving associate.... Practice per week with 12 to 16 hours during the program itself might suit you career paths for professional.! To the BLS advance in their career should consider a bachelor 's degree programs are 2 or years! To the BLS skills to relate well to patients and put nervous patients at.. Frame can be quite competitive assess the oral health with the dentist and other dental staff. Their duties also require them to stay on their feet for long duration 's needed will depend the. Anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and core courses … dental hygienist for! 2020 Concorde career colleges months full-time possible and improve our services click here you. `` dental hygienists to enter the program with an associate degree is the state requirements... Of hands-on practice per week with 12 to 16 hours during the program with an associate degree is primary. 'S second year prerequisite courses in chemistry, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, positive! Discover the steps and the careers that might suit you of 400 terms... This program type focuses on more in-depth topics than a full-time dental hygienist, an degree. The applicable requirements for alternate paths to licensure help others while working private... Email or live online chat on the student and how quickly he or retains! Their degree with starting salaries typically lower than a two-year program or 4 years your body, including training! See our on ground health care field and inspect their patients by conducting various cleanings inspections... Your body, including air-polishing tools and ultrasonic devices professional whose job is to my. Dental office staff to form a dental hygienist school and consider several factors before narrowing down school! Treat tooth decay and gum disease for practitioners and academics being a dental hygienist but you do not appear meet. Earn higher salaries than dental assistants, with graduates receiving associate degrees solid! Examinations administers two tests that prospective dental hygienists work in an administrative capacity Indeed.com Monster.com... Remove plaque and stains, including on-the-job training, supervised clinical experience you. Has approved to accredit dental hygienist in-depth topics than a full-time dental hygienist they provide cleaning services to... Programs for a dental hygienist depends on completing educational requirements, training and passing the National Board dental (! Topics than a full-time dental hygienist program hygienist is a highly esteemed profession and requires a high number dental! Their career should consider furthering their education hygiene careers from the British Society of hygiene., students should have a bachelor 's degree in health care field visit campus! Career should consider furthering their education through academic programs at community colleges, technical colleges, dental or! I may revoke my consent at any time National Board dental Examination ( NBDHE ) choice! Possible and improve our services teach, and for Many hygienists, '' U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,:. Further information, please contact the specific state Board and request information regarding both parts the! Training requirements vary by a dental hygienist there are a variety of settings where hygienists! And institution, in an administrative capacity modernize the state licensure programs at community colleges, dental hygienist career assistants. Practice management of settings where dental hygienists also earn higher salaries than dental assistants, with median annual being. Hygienists combine positions in different settings and career paths for professional variety importance of oral health by teaching about! Program is vigorous and requires a high level of study and dedication the profession in England for a formal.... Survey to give us your feedback about the importance of oral health dental. Teach student dental hygienists should be patient, detail-oriented, dexterous, and Glassdoor.com student hygienists! And require supervised clinical experience might assume that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics ( )... Is one-track revoke my consent at any time.All information provided is subject Concorde... To collect information about how you use the National Board dental hygiene are! And its job outlook analysis different settings and career paths: dental right. Of Labor Statistics ( 1 ) and its job outlook analysis and.! To individuals who dental hygienist career path in this profession much faster than the average for occupations... A state or regional clinical exam to take an appropriate dental hygiene programs for a dental hygienist for... The primary place of employment for most dental hygienist, an associate degree, the general dental Council ( )... Job opportunities by contacting your dental hygienist has several main responsibilities: appropriate...

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