What is a Dental Hygiene Job?
Dental hygiene jobs are positions that involve working in dental clinics, hospitals, or private practices, where dental hygiene specialists provide preventive and therapeutic oral care services to patients. They are responsible for ensuring that patients maintain good oral health by cleaning teeth, applying sealants, and providing education on proper oral care techniques.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Dental hygiene specialists work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive oral care to patients. They perform a wide range of tasks, including cleaning teeth, taking X-rays, applying fluoride, and educating patients on proper oral care techniques. They also help dentists with various procedures and treatments, such as tooth extractions, fillings, and root canals.
Top 5 Skills for Position:
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Manual dexterity
- Problem-solving skills
- Empathy and compassion
How to Become This Type of Specialist?
To become a dental hygiene specialist, you will need to complete a dental hygiene program, which generally takes two to three years to complete. The program typically includes classroom instruction and clinical training, where students learn how to clean teeth, take X-rays, and perform other oral care procedures. After completing the program, you will need to pass a national exam and obtain a license to practice in your state.
Average Salary:
The average salary for dental hygiene jobs varies depending on the location, experience, and qualifications of the specialist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental hygienists was $76,220 in May 2020.
Roles and Types:
Dental hygiene jobs can vary depending on the setting and the specific responsibilities of the specialist. Some common roles and types include:
- Dental hygienist: works in dental clinics and private practices and provides preventive and therapeutic oral care services to patients.
- Public health dental hygienist: works in community health clinics, schools, and other public settings to provide oral care services to underserved populations.
- Research dental hygienist: conducts research on oral health and disease prevention.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA:
Dental hygiene jobs are in demand across the United States, but some locations have more opportunities than others. Some of the most popular locations for dental hygiene jobs include:
- California
- Florida
- Texas
- New York
- Pennsylvania
What Are the Typical Tools?
Dental hygiene specialists use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their duties. Some of the most common tools include dental mirrors, probes, scalers, and suction devices. They also use X-ray machines and computer software to analyze and diagnose oral health problems.
In Conclusion:
Dental hygiene jobs are an important part of the healthcare industry, as they help to promote good oral health and prevent oral diseases. If you are interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene, you will need to complete a dental hygiene program, obtain a license to practice in your state, and develop the necessary skills and qualities to succeed in this field. With the right training and experience, you can build a rewarding career as a dental hygiene specialist.