What is a Registered Dental Hygienist?
Dental hygienists are educated to assume many time-consuming tasks previously reserved for dentists. Dental hygienists evaluate the patient's dental health, take and process x-ray films, remove calculus deposits, stains, and plaque above and below the gumline. They also apply preventive agents such as fluorides and sealants to teeth. When appropriate, they educate individuals and groups about oral hygiene, selecting toothbrushes, the use of dental floss, and explaining oral health problems related to diet or use of tobacco products. Additionally, hygienists receive training in assisting and reception responsibilities so they can serve as comprehensive team members in the dental office. Dental hygienists should work well with others and must have manual dexterity in order to manipulate the dental instruments in the patients' mouths.
Areas of Specialization
Dental hygienists provide direct patient care services in private practices and other clinical settings. In addition, hygienists may specialize in public health, education, or research.
Work Environment
Dental hygienists work under the supervision of dentists. Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices. Others are employed by hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, schools, and private industry. Many hygienists work in more than one office on a part-time basis. Most work about 35 hours per week and may work in the evenings or on weekends.
Job Outlook
Approximately 363 new jobs are expected each year until 2005 for dental hygienists in Texas. These job openings result from the growing need for dental care and a shift in preventive care treatment, such as cleaning, from the dentist to the hygienist, allowing the dentist to focus more on corrective treatment.
Advancement
Dental hygienists may obtain advanced degrees and become involved in research, teaching, or administration of dental hygiene education programs. Developing and promoting community dental health programs offers additional opportunities.
Length of Education/Requirements
Completion of a two-year program in a community college or University is the minimum educational requirement. However, bachelor and master degree programs are available at numerous colleges and universities in the United States and are required for research and teaching. The core courses of a dental hygiene program include clinical procedures, preventive oral hygiene, community and public health dentistry, dental anatomy, pharmacology, dental materials, dental specialties, nutrition, and dental radiography. Some programs require students to complete at least one year of college prior to enrolling in the program.
Licensure/Certification
Dental hygienists must graduate from an accredited program before they are eligible to take the national and state licensing exams given by the American Dental Association Joint Commission. The title 'Registered Dental Hygienist' is awarded upon successful completion of the licensing process. Continuing education hours and CPR renewal are required every year for license renewal.