WHAT IS A DENTAL HYGIENIST?
INTEGRAL PROVIDER OF YOUR DENTAL CARE TEAM COLLEGE GRADUATE
RESOURCE FOR OVERALL TOTAL BODY HEALTH STATE LICENSED / CPR CERTIFIED
A PREVENTIVE CARE SPECIALIST PROUD PROFESSIONAL
“CORE” courses needed for a science degree from any accredited college or university (English, History, Government, Humanities, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology and Math) are usually required before admission to a program.
Upon acceptance to a CODA accredited Program, additional classroom and clinical hours in Human Sciences, Pathology, Pharmacology, Tooth Development, Dental Specialties, Dental Materials, Nutrition, Head and Neck Anatomy, Periodontology, Radiology, Clinical Prophylaxis and Public Health are then needed as a minimum requirement in a 2-year Community College or University program. However, Bachelor and Master Degree programs are available at numerous colleges and universities in the United States and are required for research and teaching.
Upon successful completion of these programs, an RDH is required to pass a National Board Examination on dental hygiene subjects and prove clinical proficiency in actual hands-on clinical procedures required by a Regional Exam Board. They are also required to know and follow all laws and rules relevant to Dental Hygiene in this state and maintain current certification. You are also required to maintain a current certification in CPR by the Red Cross or American Heart Association, as well as regularly complete at least 12 hours of continuing education courses, annually, to keep technical skills updated and scientific knowledge current for license renewal each year.
When appropriate, an RDH educates individuals and groups about oral hygiene, selecting toothbrushes, the use of dental floss, and explaining oral health problems related to diet, medications or use of tobacco products. In addition to the regular duties performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist, one may obtain specific certifications for patient comfort and disease prevention by taking courses and passing examinations of the licensing agency. These may include application of sealants, monitoring nitrous oxide and in most states, administering local anesthesia.
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 offer additional opportunities.
Specialists in the prevention of oral disease and the maintenance of dental health