Dental Hygienist

What is a dental hygienist? All of us have visited the dentist and received a professional cleaning. The dental hygienist is the person on the dental team who delivers this treatment. The dental hygienist is usually the person on the team with the highest level of technical training, other than the dentist. Dental Hygienists complete anywhere from two to six years of advanced education, depending on the degree they choose.

Dental Hygienist State License

In addition to their degree, the Department of Labor mandates that dental hygienists also must obtain a state license. They must graduate from an accredited dental hygiene school and pass a written and clinical exam, the department says. The licensing requirements vary from state to state.

Dental Hygienist Salary

A dental hygienist is usually the highest paid employee, other than the dentist or Office Manager, on the dental team. This is partly because of their level of knowledge, and the fact that they are considered producers, as is the dentist.

Dental Hygienist Benefits

The benefits of being a dental hygienist are many. In addition to enhanced earning potential through competitive salaries and bonuses, a dental hygienist can often demand a more flexible schedule. It is not uncommon for a dental hygienist to work part time, or in more than one practice. Dental hygienists also have the added benefits that other employees enjoy, such as employer sponsored or partially sponsored health plan, retirement plans, paid vacations and holidays, no (or limited) nights or weekend work, free or reduced fees for dental care for employee and family, including free or reduced fee dental care by specialists such as orthodontists.

Responsibilities of a Dental Hygienist

Some of the responsibilities of a dental hygienist are:

• Remove calculus deposits and stains from teeth and beneath gums, using dental instruments.
• Perform visual exam of gums for evidence of disease.
• Chart conditions of decay and disease for diagnosis and treatment by dentist.
• Perform periodontal probing and screening exam to diagnose periodontal disease.
• Perform oral hygiene instruction to patients.
• Take, develop, and mount dental x-rays.
• Administer local anesthetic agents within parameter of state law.
• Educate patients about conditions in their mouth.
• Educate patients about recommended treatment.
• Educate patients about continuing care to maintain optimal level of oral health.
• Supports goals of practice by assisting in maintaining productive schedule.
• Assist other team members as needed to help insure financial success of practice.

There are numerous schools and universities all over the USA and the world to provide training and education necessary to embark on a career as a dental hygienist. It is also possible to be crossed trained for a career in dentistry. Many dental hygienists move on to become successful Office Managers, lecturers, consultants, and renowned expert in the profession. Whatever you decide, a dental career has a great deal to offer in the way of return on your investment.