Dental hygienists work as members of professional health care teams to treat and educate patients in the control and prevention of oral disease. They evaluate and chart normal and oral disease conditions, remove plaque and tartar from teeth, expose and process dental x-rays, and apply fluoride and sealants to tooth surfaces. Dental hygienists work with dentists or dental specialists in private practice, hospitals, public health clinics, research institutions, public schools, business and industry, or the armed forces. Individuals considering a career in dental hygiene should be strongly committed to working with people in healthy or unhealthy states. A dedication to delivering competent and compassionate health care and the ability to communicate effectively are crucial to a successful and rewarding career in dental hygiene.
Areas of Work and Emerging Areas of Specialty
Flexible scheduling is a distinctive feature of this job. Full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend schedules are available. The bachelor's degree allows graduates the opportunity to pursue beginning teaching roles in community college or university settings, jobs in public health departments or other health care facilities, careers in business fields such as oral health care companies, and other similar opportunities.
Job Outlook
Population growth and greater retention of natural teeth are increasing the demand for dental hygienist, especially in underserved areas. Dental Hygiene is ranked among the fastest growing occupations because of increasing demands for dental care and greater utilization of dental hygiene services. Employment of dental hygienists is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations through 2014,. Therefore, job prospects are expected to remain excellent.
Reference: U.S. Department of Labor
Salary Range
Dental Hygienist salaries range from $30 to $50 an hour, depending on the geographic region, type of practice, and the workforce supply and demand.
Reference: U.S. Department of Labor
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