Radiation Therapist vs. Dental Hygienist: What Are the Differences?

Radiation therapists and dental hygienists are both health care professionals who work with patients to improve their oral health. Though they share some similarities, there are several key differences between these two job titles. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between radiation therapists and dental hygienists, and we provide helpful tips for choosing the right career path for you.

What is a Radiation Therapist?

Radiation therapists are responsible for administering radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. They work closely with oncologists, surgeons and other medical staff to develop and implement treatment plans. Radiation therapists use special equipment to target radiation at specific areas of the patient’s body while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue. They also educate patients on what to expect during treatment and help them manage side effects. Radiation therapists must be licensed in most states and must complete a radiation therapy program accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

What is a Dental Hygienist?

Dental Hygienists are responsible for cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and educating patients on how to maintain good oral health. They work under the supervision of a Dentist, and may also provide other preventive dental care services such as sealants and fluoride treatments. Dental Hygienists use a variety of tools to clean teeth, including hand-held scaling instruments, ultrasonic cleaners and power toothbrushes. They also take x-rays to check for tooth decay or other problems. In addition to cleaning teeth, Dental Hygienists also teach patients about proper oral hygiene, such as how to brush and floss correctly.

Radiation Therapist vs. Dental Hygienist

Here are the main differences between a radiation therapist and a dental hygienist.

Job Duties

While both radiation therapists and dental hygienists work with patients to ensure their health, they focus on different parts of the body. As a radiation therapist, your job is to treat cancerous tumors by administering radiation therapy. You help patients understand how the treatment will affect them and make sure that the radiation equipment works properly. While you don’t perform the actual radiation treatments, you do assist patients during their sessions.

As a dental hygienist, your job is to examine a patient’s oral health through cleanings and X-rays. You use this information to create a personalized plan for the patient to improve their overall oral health. You may also remove plaque and apply sealants and fillings as necessary. While these two jobs have clear distinctions, there are some similarities between working as a radiation therapist and a dental hygienist. Both positions involve helping patients maintain good health through preventive measures and screenings.

Job Requirements

Radiation therapists typically need an associate degree in radiation therapy, although some may have a bachelor’s degree. These programs include coursework on topics like human anatomy and physiology, medical ethics and patient care. Many programs also require students to complete clinical rotations so they can gain hands-on experience working with patients before they graduate.

Dental hygienists usually need an associate degree in dental hygiene, although some may have a bachelor’s degree. These programs include coursework on topics like oral anatomy, periodontology and dental materials. Many programs also require students to complete clinical rotations so they can gain hands-on experience working with patients before they graduate.

Work Environment

Radiation therapists work in hospitals, clinics and private practices. They may travel to different locations for their job responsibilities. Dental hygienists typically work in dental offices or other healthcare facilities. Their work environments are usually clean and sanitary.

Radiation therapists wear protective clothing while they perform their duties. This includes gloves, masks and gowns. Dental hygienists wear personal protection equipment such as gloves and face masks when treating patients.

Skills

Both radiation therapists and dental hygienists need to have excellent communication skills. Radiation therapists work with cancer patients and need to be able to explain the treatment process in a way that is clear and easy for patients to understand. Dental hygienists also need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, as they need to provide instructions on how to properly care for teeth and gums.

Both of these professionals also need to have strong organizational skills. Radiation therapists need to keep track of patients’ appointments, treatments and side effects. Dental hygienists need to be able to stay organized while they are cleaning patients’ teeth, as they need to make sure they cover all areas of the mouth and do not miss any spots.

Radiation therapists need to have strong technical skills, as they need to be able to operate complex machinery. Dental hygienists also need to have some technical skills, as they need to be able to use dental instruments. However, dental hygienists typically do not need to be as proficient in technology as radiation therapists.

Salary

Radiation therapists earn an average salary of $89,677 per year, while dental hygienists earn an average salary of $84,441 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the location of the job, the level of experience of the professional and the type of employer.