Is Dental Hygiene a Good Career Choice?


Are you considering a career as a dental hygienist? If so, 2019 is an excellent year to get started! A career in dental hygiene offers many benefits, including job stability, a great salary, and the satisfaction of helping people maintain healthy smiles. Additionally, becoming a dental hygienist requires less schooling than other healthcare careers, making it a great option for those looking to enter the field quickly.

Dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning patients’ teeth and providing preventative care. They can also provide education on proper oral hygiene, such as how to floss and brush correctly. With the right education and experience, dental hygienists can find rewarding and fulfilling careers.white ceramic mug with brown and white liquid

Are you considering a career in dental hygiene? It is a great choice for those looking to become part of the healthcare industry. With the right training, you can work in a variety of settings such as private practice, hospitals, or clinics. Dental hygiene offers a rewarding job with a great salary and career growth potential. In 2019, dental hygiene is an excellent option for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding career.

Introduction

woman in white sweater sitting on black bench

Are you considering a career as a dental hygienist? If so, 2019 is an excellent year to get started! A career in dental hygiene offers many benefits, including job stability, a great salary, and the satisfaction of helping people maintain healthy smiles. Additionally, becoming a dental hygienist requires less schooling than other healthcare careers, making it a great option for those looking to enter the field quickly.

Dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning patients’ teeth and providing preventative care. They can also provide education on proper oral hygiene, such as how to floss and brush correctly. With the right education and experience, dental hygienists can find rewarding and fulfilling careers.

Job Prospects in Dental Hygiene

Job prospects in the dental field are growing rapidly. With advances in technology, there are more opportunities for dental hygienists to find employment. As a dental hygienist, you will be responsible for providing preventative care, cleaning and polishing teeth, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene. You may also assist in diagnosing dental conditions, performing minor procedures, and creating treatment plans. To thrive in this field, it is important to have strong communication skills and be comfortable working with people of all ages.

Investing in continuing education courses can help you gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful dental hygienist. Working closely with dentists, you can make a positive impact on your patients’ oral health. With the right training and dedication, you can find a rewarding career in the dental field.

Educational Requirements for Dental Hygienists

bread with white cream on black round plateDental hygienists are health care professionals who specialize in preventive oral health care, including cleaning teeth, taking X-rays and providing patient education. To become a dental hygienist, individuals must complete an accredited educational program and pass a state licensing exam. Educational requirements for dental hygiene programs vary by state, but may include a high school diploma or GED, completion of pre-requisite courses such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics and a minimum grade point average.

Additionally, some states require that dental hygienists complete continuing education courses to maintain their license. Prospective dental hygienists should research their state’s requirements, as well as the specific program details, to ensure they meet all requirements.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Hygiene Careers

Dental hygiene careers offer a number of advantages, including job stability, competitive salaries, and excellent benefits. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider, such as long hours, demanding physical requirements, and the need for ongoing education. With proper planning and careful consideration, dental hygiene can be a rewarding and satisfying career.

Whether you’re considering a career in dental hygiene or just looking to learn more about the field, it’s important to understand both the advantages and disadvantages. By understanding the positives and negatives, you can make an informed decision and create a plan that works best for you.
Dental hygiene is an important profession with many advantages and disadvantages. Consider all aspects carefully and make an informed decision when choosing a career in dental hygiene.

Average Salary of a Dental Hygienist

brown bread on black ceramic plate

Dental hygienists are essential healthcare professionals whose salaries can vary based on a number of factors. The average salary for a dental hygienist in the US is approximately $75,500 per year. Salaries for dental hygienists can be affected by geographical location, experience, and employer. Dental hygienists may also receive additional compensation such as bonuses, health benefits, and paid vacation time.

Dental Hygiene Job Outlook

The job outlook for the field of dental hygiene is strong. Demand for qualified professionals is expected to remain high due to an aging population and the need for preventive care. Professionals with a degree in dental hygiene can expect to find good job opportunities in many areas, including private practices, clinics, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

Licensing and Certification for Dental Hygienists

a glass of liquidDental hygienists must obtain a license to practice in most states. Requirements vary by state, but typically include completing an accredited program, passing a written and/or clinical exam, and paying a licensing fee. Certifications are also available through professional organizations and may be required to take on certain roles in the dental field. Licensing and certification ensure that dental hygienists have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care to patients.

Certification is a voluntary process and demonstrates a commitment to professional development and high standards of patient care. It is not required, but can help dental hygienists advance their career and increase their job opportunities.
Licensing and certification for dental hygienists is an important part of ensuring quality care for patients.

Career Paths for Dental Hygienists

Dental Hygienists are healthcare professionals who specialize in preventive and therapeutic oral health care. They provide education and counseling to patients on proper brushing, flossing, diet, and other aspects of oral hygiene. Dental Hygienists also perform routine dental cleanings and take X-rays, as well as diagnose and treat certain dental diseases. A career in Dental Hygiene can be extremely rewarding, offering the opportunity to work with people in a professional setting and help them maintain good oral health.
Those interested in pursuing a career in Dental Hygiene should obtain their degree from an accredited program and obtain a license in the state they wish to practice in. After gaining experience, many Dental Hygienists may opt to pursue advanced certifications, allowing them to specialize in certain areas of dentistry or teach in postsecondary programs.

Finding Dental Hygiene Employment

man in black apron holding black and white ceramic cupFinding dental hygiene employment is an important step in the process of taking care of your oral health. With the right resources and support, you can find a job that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. From job boards to networking sites, there are many ways to search for and apply for positions in the dental hygiene field. With the proper research and preparation, you can land the perfect job that suits your needs.

For those who are unsure of how to begin their search, consider reaching out to local dental offices or associations for advice. They may be able to point you in the right direction or even provide resources that can help you get started. Additionally, it’s important to stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements to ensure that you remain competitive.
By staying organized and taking advantage of all the resources available to you, you can increase your chances of finding a dental hygiene job that fits your needs and qualifications.

conclusion

Dental hygiene is a rewarding career choice for those interested in providing essential dental care and making a difference in people’s lives. With advancements in technology, there are more opportunities than ever to be successful in this field. The job market for dental hygienists is expected to remain strong in 2019 and beyond.

With the right education, training and dedication, dental hygiene can provide a fulfilling and lucrative career.
This article has highlighted the many benefits of becoming a dental hygienist, and the steps required to pursue a successful career in this field.

woman in white sweater holding white ceramic mug

Some questions with answers

What is dental hygiene?

Dental hygiene is a field of healthcare that focuses on the prevention and treatment of oral diseases.

What types of organizations offer membership for dental hygienists?

Organizations that offer membership for dental hygienists include the American Dental Hygienists' Association and the National Dental Hygienists Association.

What qualifications are required to become a dental hygienist?

To become a dental hygienist, an individual must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an accredited dental hygiene program.

What type of job opportunities are available in dental hygiene?

Job opportunities in dental hygiene include working in a dental office, private practice, hospital, nursing home, or public health clinic.

What are the benefits of a career in dental hygiene?

Benefits of a career in dental hygiene include job stability, flexibility, and the opportunity to provide a valuable service to the community.

What type of salary can a dental hygienist expect to earn?

A dental hygienist can expect to earn a median annual salary of approximately $74,000.

What qualities should a dental hygienist possess?

Qualities of a successful dental hygienist include excellent communication skills, attention to detail, compassion, and organization.

Is dental hygiene a good career choice in 2019?

Yes, dental hygiene is a great career choice in 2019, as it offers job stability, a competitive salary, and the opportunity to provide a valuable service to the community.

What types of tasks does a dental hygienist do?

Duties of a dental hygienist include cleaning teeth, performing X-rays, applying sealants and topical fluoride, and educating patients about proper oral hygiene.

What does continuing education involve for a dental hygienist?

Continuing education for dental hygienists involves taking courses and attending seminars to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in dental care.

Recent Posts