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Dental Hygienist Colleges

Dental hygienists work directly with patients in a dental office or hospital environment to provide basic services and assist doctors of dentistry with more complex procedures. Because dental hygienists offer more advanced and specialized care than dental assistants, they are required to obtain a qualifying degree in the field and acquire a valid license for the state in which they wish to practice. Typical duties include teeth cleanings and polishing, performing bitewing and other x-rays, and applying fluoride treatments. Depending on the regulations of the state where a dental hygienist practices, he or she may be called upon to administer anesthetics, assist in metal and porcelain filling positioning and shaping, and provide temporary fillings for patients.

One of the most important duties of a dental hygienist is to educate patients on proper oral cleaning and hygiene. By instilling good dental habits, especially in younger patients, dental hygienists can help them avoid dental problems in later life and provide a solid basis for good oral hygiene. In a family dental practice, dental hygienists typically act as nurses, assisting the dentist and preparing patients for procedures; they often explain the procedures in advance and may use models or charts to demonstrate the techniques that will be used. Especially for younger patients, dental hygienists are called upon to calm and reassure as well as treat.

Students typically must obtain either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in order to prepare for a career in the dental hygiene field. Graduating from an accredited program is usually required in order to apply to become a licensed dental hygienist. In order to complete an accredited dental hygiene training program, students must demonstrate competency in five basic areas outlined by the American Dental Education Association. These areas are: general knowledge and ethical standards, health care promotion and preventive care, an awareness of the dental hygienist’s responsibility to the community, an in-depth understanding of patient care, and a commitment to ongoing professional growth and training. After graduation, aspiring dental hygienists must take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and any required state or regional examinations; upon successful completion of these two tests, the dental hygienist can apply for a state license to practice.

Dental hygiene is one of the fastest growing fields in healthcare. Due to the high demand for licensed professionals in the dental hygiene field, the median salary for dental hygienists has increased in recent years and is now $41,000 per year.

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