Choosing a career is an important decision, and dental hygiene is a great option for people looking for a rewarding and meaningful job. With the demand for oral healthcare expected to rise in 2017, pursuing a career in dental hygiene can offer you stability, job satisfaction, and a good salary. If you’re looking for a reliable and secure career path, dental hygiene may be the perfect choice for you.
Are you looking for a career that makes a difference? Consider dental hygiene in 2017. This field offers the opportunity to make a real contribution to people’s health and well-being. With the right training, you can become an important part of a patient’s healthcare team. You’ll learn how to diagnose, treat and prevent oral diseases, as well as teach patients how to care for their teeth and gums. A career in dental hygiene is both rewarding and fulfilling.
Introduction
Choosing a career is an important decision, and dental hygiene is a great option for people looking for a rewarding and meaningful job. With the demand for oral healthcare expected to rise in 2017, pursuing a career in dental hygiene can offer you stability, job satisfaction, and a good salary. If you’re looking for a reliable and secure career path, dental hygiene may be the perfect choice for you.
Benefits of Dental Hygiene
Good dental hygiene is essential for overall health. Brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. It can also help reduce bad breath, tooth discoloration, and even heart disease. Taking care of your mouth and teeth can help maintain a beautiful smile and reduce the risk of costly dental procedures in the future.
Regular trips to the dentist are also important. A professional cleaning can help remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone cannot remove. The dentist can also spot any potential issues and provide advice on how to best care for your teeth and gums.
Taking good care of your teeth can lead to better overall health, so make sure to brush and floss daily and visit the dentist for regular check-ups.
Salary and Job Outlook for Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are in high demand and enjoy competitive salaries. The job outlook for dental hygienists is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a much faster than average growth rate of 11% through 2029. Dental hygienists can work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, and community health centers. They provide preventive oral healthcare services, such as cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and educating patients about oral hygiene. Dental hygienists also assess patients’ oral well-being and refer them to dentists if necessary.
With the right qualifications and experience, dental hygienists can expect a rewarding career with strong prospects and excellent salaries.
Education Requirements for Dental Hygiene
To become a dental hygienist, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete an accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. Most states also require licensure for employment, which requires passing a practical exam. Additionally, many employers prefer dental hygienists who have additional certifications in specialties such as periodontics, anesthesiology, or radiography.
Skills Needed for Dental Hygiene Careers
Dental hygiene careers require a unique set of skills to succeed. A thorough understanding of oral anatomy and the ability to perform basic dental procedures are essential. Interpersonal skills, such as communication and patient care, are also key to success. Additionally, knowledge of infection control, record-keeping, and business practices are necessary to be a successful dental hygienist.
Types of Dental Hygiene Procedures
Dental hygiene procedures are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. They range from regular brushing and flossing to more complex treatments such as dental cleanings, sealants, and fillings. Regular check-ups with a dentist are necessary for a comprehensive evaluation of the health of your teeth and mouth. Taking good care of your teeth and gums can help prevent cavities and gum disease.
Brushing and flossing daily is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and exams can also help maintain your oral health. Your dentist may also recommend sealants, fillings, or other treatments to protect your teeth from decay and keep them looking their best.
Taking proper care of your teeth and gums is vital for overall health. With regular home care and professional cleanings and exams, you can help ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
The Role of Dental Hygienists in Preventative Care
Dental hygienists play an important role in preventive care, helping to ensure that teeth and gums stay healthy. They provide a variety of services, including cleaning and polishing teeth, taking x-rays, discussing oral hygiene habits, and providing advice on diet and nutrition. Hygienists also play an important role in detecting early signs of decay or gum disease, which can help prevent more serious problems down the road.
Regular visits to the dentist and dental hygienist are important for maintaining good oral health. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling a checkup every six months, or as often as recommended by your dentist.
Keeping teeth and gums healthy is essential for overall well-being and enjoyment of life. Taking the time to visit the dentist and dental hygienist regularly can help ensure that your smile stays healthy for many years to come.
Employment Opportunities for Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are in high demand and offer many employment opportunities. They provide an essential service to those with dental needs, from routine check-ups to complex treatments. With excellent wages and benefits, the job is attractive to many.
The role of a dental hygienist requires specialized training and certification. Dental hygienists must be knowledgeable about the latest developments in their field and understand the importance of providing quality care.
With a strong focus on preventive care and patient education, dental hygienists play a vital role in helping to maintain good oral health. Whether you are looking for full-time, part-time or contract work, there are plenty of opportunities available to pursue a career as a dental hygienist.
Safety Considerations for Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists must adhere to safety protocols to ensure the health and safety of patients. Personal protective equipment such as face masks, gloves, and eye protection should be worn at all times when treating patients. Employees must be trained on proper cleaning and disinfecting procedures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. It is also important to recognize signs of physical or psychological distress in patients and act accordingly to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Practicing good ergonomics is an essential part of dental hygiene safety. Ergonomic chairs, footrests, and adjustable instruments are important to reduce strain on the body. Taking regular breaks and engaging in stretching exercises can also help reduce fatigue and increase productivity.
Overall, safety considerations for dental hygienists are essential for providing quality care and protecting both patients and workers.
conclusion
Dental hygiene is a great career choice for those looking to get into the healthcare field in 2017. It offers competitive salaries, job security, and an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. With proper training and certification, you can be sure that you will have a rewarding career in the dental hygiene field.
Some questions with answers
What are the benefits of a career in dental hygiene?
A career in dental hygiene offers a range of benefits, including job security, flexible hours, and good pay.
What is the job outlook for dental hygienists in 2017?
The job outlook for dental hygienists is strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2017 to 2027.
What qualifications do I need to become a dental hygienist?
To become a dental hygienist, you'll typically need an associate degree in dental hygiene from an accredited college or university.
What is the job outlook for dental hygienists?
The job outlook for dental hygienists is strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2017 to 2027.
How much does a dental hygienist make on average?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dental hygienists was $74,820 in May 2019.
What types of duties do dental hygienists perform?
The duties of dental hygienists include cleaning teeth, taking X-rays, examining patients' mouths, and providing preventive care and treatments.
What is the education requirement for becoming a dental hygienist?
In most states, dental hygienists must have an associate degree in dental hygiene from an accredited college or university.
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?
It typically takes two to three years to complete an associate degree in dental hygiene.
Do dental hygienists need to be licensed?
Most states require dental hygienists to be licensed, which typically involves passing a written and clinical exam.
What type of environment does a dental hygienist work in?
Dental hygienists typically work in private dental offices, but may also work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings.