A career as a dental hygienist involves working as a member of a healthcare team to provide preventative oral care. These licensed professionals clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases like gingivitis, and educate them on how to maintain good oral health. This role requires a specific educational background, state-mandated licensure, and a distinct set of skills to succeed.
Educational Requirements
The most common path to becoming a dental hygienist is an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene, the standard requirement for entry into the profession. These programs take about three years to complete and combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. While an associate degree is sufficient for clinical practice, bachelor’s or master’s degrees are required for careers in research, teaching, or public health administration.
Acceptance into a dental hygiene program is competitive, and prospective students need to complete prerequisite courses with a solid GPA. These include college-level biology, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry. The core curriculum covers a wide range of specialized subjects such as pharmacology, periodontology (the study of gum diseases), and dental materials.
A component of any program is extensive clinical training where students learn to use specialized instruments and interact with patients under supervision. Before an individual can practice, they must graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This accreditation ensures that the education received meets the profession’s national standards.
Licensing and Certification
Graduating from an accredited program is the first step toward becoming a licensed professional. Every state requires dental hygienists to be licensed to practice, though specific requirements can vary. The process involves passing comprehensive examinations to prove competency, ensuring every practicing hygienist meets a national standard of skill.
The examination process has two main parts. The first is the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a written test covering the profession’s scientific and clinical knowledge base. This 350-question, multiple-choice test is administered over a nine-hour session. Passing the NBDHE is a prerequisite for licensure in all states.
Following the national board, candidates must pass a state or regional clinical examination. These hands-on assessments evaluate a candidate’s practical skills in a clinical setting, often involving procedures on patients or manikins. Aspiring hygienists should research the specific requirements of the state where they intend to practice. Some states have additional stipulations, such as a jurisprudence exam on state dental laws or a background check.
Essential Skills for Success
Beyond formal education and licensure, excelling as a dental hygienist requires a blend of technical and personal skills. Manual dexterity is needed, as the job involves using fine motor skills to manipulate small instruments in a patient’s mouth. This work demands precision and a steady hand to perform cleanings safely. Attention to detail is also necessary for identifying subtle signs of disease.
Communication and interpersonal skills are also required. Hygienists spend a significant portion of their day interacting with patients, educating them on proper brushing and flossing techniques, and explaining treatment plans. The ability to build rapport and make patients feel comfortable is important when dealing with individuals who experience dental anxiety, requiring a compassionate approach.
The role also demands critical thinking abilities. Hygienists must assess a patient’s health by reviewing their medical history, evaluating their oral condition, and identifying potential problems for the dentist’s attention. The work also has physical demands, often requiring hygienists to remain in a static position for extended periods, which necessitates physical stamina.
Job Outlook and Advancement
The career outlook for dental hygienists is positive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment will grow 9 percent between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an increasing awareness of the link between oral and overall health and a demand for preventative care. About 16,400 job openings are projected each year over the decade.
Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices, but opportunities exist in other settings like community clinics, public health agencies, hospitals, and schools. Some experienced hygienists may find roles in the corporate world, working for dental supply companies.
Career advancement opportunities are available, facilitated by higher education. Earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree can open doors to roles in academia, research, or public health program administration. These advanced positions involve training new hygienists, conducting research, or managing oral health initiatives.