Unveiling the Path to Sparkling Smiles: Your Guide to a Dental Hygienist Career

Dental professional holding up three dental models

Do you have a strong interest in oral health? Do you like assisting others in maintaining their beautiful smile? If such is true, then a job as a dental hygienist may be ideal for you! Dental hygienists play an essential role in dental care. They collaborate with dentists to provide preventive oral health care. In this blog, we will look at the fascinating field of dental hygiene. We'll discuss the responsibilities, working conditions, educational requirements, employment opportunities, and salary estimates.

What Do Dental Hygienists Do

Dental hygienists perform various vital tasks for the health of our teeth. Our teeth are cleaned, plaque and tartar are removed, and we have treatments to strengthen our teeth. They also instruct us on good dental hygiene. Sometimes, they take x-rays of our teeth and look for symptoms of a severe illness like oral cancer. Finally, they support dentists when they work on our teeth.

Work Environment

Typically, dental offices are where dental hygienists work. They collaborate with dentists and other dental professionals to care for our teeth. These offices can be small or big, where many dentists work together. The dental hygienists and the patients' workspaces are always spotless and well-lit, making it a pleasant place.

Cost and Program Length

You must enroll in a dental hygiene program to become a dental hygienist. These programs are offered at trade schools, community colleges, or universities. Depending on your chosen degree, the program may take two or three years. 

Now, let's talk about the cost. The amount of money you need to pay for the program can vary. It depends on where you live and which school you choose. However, compared to a four-year degree, dental hygiene programs are usually more affordable. On average, an associate degree program (assuming you live in the school's exact location) costs about $22,692. But remember that these are just an average, and community colleges may be less expensive.

Aside from tuition and fees, there are other costs to consider. Think about making purchases of books and other materials for your classes. You must include room and board fees if you intend to live away from home. Additional substantial transportation costs include the price of getting to and from school. Personal expenses follow, including the cost of purchasing food and other necessities. Obtain medical insurance as well in case you get sick. Last, you'll need to rent or buy oral hygiene supplies.

Consider ways to lower the cost of things you can control when deciding how to pay for your dental hygiene education. These include things like living expenditures and transportation. Some expenses, such as tuition and fees, are unavoidable. Therefore, put your energy into discovering ways to reduce the costs you can manage to make it more inexpensive.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist

To become a dental hygienist, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Finish high school or obtain an equivalent diploma, such as a GED.
  2. Enroll in a dental hygiene school's accredited dental hygiene program. Check if the Commission approves the school on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
  3. Learn many things in your dental hygiene classes, like how to care for teeth and do dental procedures. You'll also get hands-on practice.
  4. Take a crucial test called the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. It evaluates your skills and expertise.
  5. Anywhere you live, you must have a dental hygienist license. You must:
  • To prove your ability to perform oral hygiene work, pass an exam offered by your state or region.
  • Pass a nationwide exam testing your knowledge skills. 

Additionally, try to think about the following before enrolling in a dental hygiene program:

  • You might need a pre-dental hygiene certificate and strong academic credentials.
  • You should also do well in an interview before enrolling.

By following these steps and meeting the requirements, you will surely be a dental hygienist because it implies that you'll be able to care for people's teeth and help them have healthy smiles!

Job Opportunities and Demand

There are many jobs for dental hygienists, and more and more people need their help. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienist jobs will increase by 9 percent from 2021 to 2031.

The need for dental care among elderly individuals is growing, which is why this is happening. Also, people are becoming more aware of the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent problems. Thus, keeping teeth healthy is a top priority!

There are over 16,300 new positions available for dental hygienists each year. This means there are several opportunities for people to work in this industry. Some job opportunities arise when other hygienists quit their jobs and do something different. So, when people leave, it means more opportunities for others to start their careers in this field.

Thus, if you decide to pursue a career as a dental hygienist, there will be a lot of job opportunities. Indeed, many people will need your help to keep their teeth healthy and clean!

Salary

Dental hygienists not only take pleasure in helping people, but they also make good money. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for dental hygienists was around $77,810 per year in May 2021. This indicates that they receive a fair wage for their crucial task. Dental hygienists with experience can make more than $104,440 annually. Keep in mind that the actual dental hygienist salary can vary. This will rely on factors like experience, the location of their workplace, and the type of dental practice they are in.

Conclusion

One of the best career choices is being a dental hygienist. It gives you a stable job with a good salary, and you can help people have healthy teeth and smiles. A trade school or community college are options for those who desire to become dental hygienists. All the information you need will be taught to you by them. A successful and fulfilling job as a dental hygienist is possible once you graduate from school and treat your patients well.

Healthcare Blogs

Featured partner

Decided to enroll? Talk to our expert partner.
They will help you find the right trade school for you.
CLICK HERE