Hello there! I am excited to share with you the reasons why this profession is a great choice for those interested in healthcare and dentistry.
Quick Navigation:
Reasons to become a dental hygienist
There are several reasons why you should consider becoming a dental hygienist. Firstly, it is a rewarding career where you get to help people maintain good oral health.
Secondly, it offers a good work-life balance, with flexible working hours and opportunities to work part-time.
Thirdly, it is a stable and growing profession with a high demand for healthcare services. Lastly, it provides good earning potential with a median annual wage of $77,090 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Career path of a dental hygienist
To become a dental hygienist, you need to complete an associate’s degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program. After completing the program, you need to pass a national board exam and a clinical board exam to obtain a license to practice.
Once licensed, there are many career opportunities available, including working in private dental practices, public health clinics, schools or hospitals. You can also specialize in areas such as periodontics, pediatrics or public health.
Career development
As a dental hygienist, there are many opportunities for career development. You can further your education by pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene, which can lead to advanced practice roles and higher salaries. You can also become a clinical educator, research associate or even a dental hygiene program director.
Requirements of a dental hygienist
To become a dental hygienist, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an accredited dental hygiene program. You also need to pass a national board exam and a clinical board exam to obtain a license to practice. Additionally, you need to have good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well with patients and dental professionals.
Interview preparation for a dental hygienist
When preparing for a dental hygienist interview, it is important to showcase your knowledge of dental hygiene procedures and your ability to work well with patients. You should also be prepared to answer questions about your education, experience, and communication skills. It is also important to demonstrate your ability to work well in a team and your commitment to continuing education.
Work-life balance
One of the benefits of being a dental hygienist is the flexibility it offers. Many dental hygienists work part-time or have flexible schedules, allowing for a good work-life balance. This is especially beneficial for those who have family responsibilities or other commitments.
A day in the life of a dental hygienist
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00am – 8:30am | Set up dental equipment and prepare patient records |
| 8:30am – 10:00am | Clean teeth and gums, take x-rays and provide patient education on oral health |
| 10:00am – 11:30am | Assist the dentist with procedures such as filling cavities or extracting teeth |
| 11:30am – 12:00pm | Clean and sterilize dental equipment and prepare for the next patient |
| 12:00pm – 1:00pm | Lunch break |
| 1:00pm – 4:00pm | See more patients, provide preventive care, and assist the dentist with procedures |
| 4:00pm – 5:00pm | Clean and sterilize dental equipment, complete patient records, and prepare for the next day |
Wrapping up
Being a dental hygienist is a fulfilling career that offers stability, flexibility, and good earning potential. It requires a solid education, good communication skills, and a commitment to continuing education. If you are interested in healthcare and dentistry, becoming a dental hygienist could be the right career choice for you.
