Becoming a dental hygienist requires a solid educational foundation, and there are specific steps you need to take to meet the necessary requirements.
Here are the three main educational steps in detail:
Complete a Dental Hygiene Program
To begin, you need to enroll in an accredited dental hygiene program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, universities, or vocational schools. The most common program length is two years for an associate degree in dental hygiene, but there are also four-year bachelor’s degree programs available for those interested in pursuing advanced roles in the field. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You will learn about anatomy, dental materials, dental hygiene theory, and patient care techniques.
Obtain Certification and Licensure
After completing an accredited dental hygiene program, you must pass national and sometimes regional licensing exams. The most commonly required exam is the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), which tests your knowledge in areas like patient management, infection control, and clinical dental hygiene procedures. In addition, some states may require specific regional exams or additional certifications, such as an anesthesia certification. Obtaining licensure ensures that you meet the legal requirements to practice as a dental hygienist.
Pursue Continuing Education and Specializations
After becoming licensed, dental hygienists are required to complete continuing education (CE) courses regularly to maintain their licensure. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental care and maintain proficiency in their skills. Additionally, some dental hygienists choose to pursue specializations in areas such as pediatric dentistry, periodontal care, or public health. Specializations often require additional coursework, exams, and certification, but they can open doors to higher-paying positions and career advancement.
Dental Hygienist Salary and Job Outlook
The salary and job outlook for dental hygienists are two key factors that make this career attractive.
Here are three important details about the salary potential and job outlook for dental hygienists:
Average Salary of a Dental Hygienist
The average salary for dental hygienists varies based on experience, location, and level of education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for dental hygienists was approximately $77,000 in 2022. However, this figure can vary. For example, in some states or high-demand areas, experienced dental hygienists can earn $90,000 or more per year, especially if they have advanced certifications or work in specialized fields like periodontal care or pediatric dentistry.
Salary Influencers: Location, Experience, and Specialization
Several factors influence the salary of a dental hygienist:
- Location: Salaries tend to be higher in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living. For example, dental hygienists in California or Alaska often earn more than those in rural areas.
- Experience: As with most professions, dental hygienists with more years of experience tend to earn higher wages. Entry-level hygienists may start at lower salaries, but after several years, their pay can increase significantly.
- Specialization: Dental hygienists who pursue additional certifications or specialize in areas like orthodontics or periodontal therapy often have the opportunity to command higher salaries.
Job Outlook and Career Growth
The job outlook for dental hygienists is strong. The profession is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for other occupations.
This growth is driven by several factors:
- Aging Population: As the population ages, the need for dental care and maintenance increases, driving demand for dental hygienists.
- Increased Awareness of Oral Health: People are becoming more conscious of the importance of oral health and prevention, leading to more frequent dental visits and a greater need for hygienists.
- Access to Care: Efforts to improve access to healthcare in underserved areas are expected to create more opportunities for dental hygienists in public health settings, schools, and clinics.
How to Become a Successful Dental Hygienist
Becoming a successful dental hygienist goes beyond completing education and obtaining licensure. It requires continuous improvement, a positive mindset, and strong interpersonal skills.
Here are the key strategies to thrive in this rewarding career:
Develop Strong Communication and Patient Care Skills
One of the most important qualities of a successful dental hygienist is the ability to communicate effectively with patients. Since dental visits can be anxiety-inducing for many, having a calm, empathetic, and reassuring demeanor can make a significant difference in patient comfort and trust.
- Explain Procedures Clearly: Always ensure your patients understand the procedures they will undergo, including how you’re helping them prevent dental problems.
- Educate Patients: Take time to explain proper oral hygiene techniques, such as brushing, flossing, and the role of diet in maintaining healthy teeth.
- Active Listening: Listen to your patients’ concerns and preferences, which will help you provide personalized care.
By building strong communication skills and creating a comfortable environment for patients, you can foster long-term relationships and boost patient satisfaction.
Stay Current with Industry Developments and Continuing Education
The dental field is constantly evolving with new technologies, treatments, and techniques. A successful dental hygienist must be committed to lifelong learning to stay on top of these advancements.
- Take Continuing Education (CE) Courses: Most states require dental hygienists to complete CE courses to maintain licensure. These courses can also help you specialize in certain areas such as pediatric dentistry, periodontics, or anesthesia.
- Attend Industry Conferences: Participate in dental conferences, workshops, and seminars to expand your knowledge and network with industry professionals.
- Embrace New Technologies: Stay updated on the latest dental tools, software, and techniques, such as digital radiography, laser treatments, or teledentistry, which can improve patient care and efficiency.
By continually learning and adapting to new developments, you can improve the quality of care you provide and stay competitive in your field.
Practice Good Ergonomics and Self-Care Dental hygiene is a physically demanding job that requires long hours of standing and performing intricate procedures. To have a successful, long-lasting career, it’s essential to practice proper ergonomics and take care of your physical health.
- Ergonomic Posture: Maintain good posture to avoid musculoskeletal problems. Adjust your chair, patient’s chair, and tools to minimize strain on your back, neck, and wrists.
- Stretching and Exercises: Incorporate stretching and strength exercises into your routine to prevent injury and improve flexibility.
- Take Breaks: Remember to take regular breaks during your shift to rest and recharge, especially during long working hours.
