Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist is that outgoing personality who helps keep the teeth, gums and mouth healthy. From cleaning and x-rays to oral exams to detect signs of disease like gingivitis, a dental hygienist does it all.
In fact, a career as a dental hygienist offers a wide range of challenges. In the dental office, the dentist and the dental hygienist work together to meet the oral health needs of patients. As a dental hygienist, you can expect to counsel patients about good nutrition and its impact on oral health, and teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health. You’re the person who meets with patients, assesses their oral health, reviews their history and screens for oral cancer. You perform the cleanings, dental x-rays and preventive procedures like sealants and fluorides.
Nearly all dental hygienists work in dentists’ offices, and many work part time. You may find that some dental offices are open Monday through Thursday, with Fridays off.
If you’re interested in a career as a dental hygienist, get prepared now. Be sure to take courses in biology, chemistry and math while in high school. After high school, consider a community college or four-year university.
Most dental hygienists have an associate or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene, plus a license from the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. It’s important to make sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. There are more than 300 accredited dental hygiene programs. A program in dental hygiene usually takes about three years. You’ll take classes in anatomy, medical ethics, nutrition, pathology, physiology and periodontics as well as labs and clinical.
$60,025
entry level salary estimate
$83,945
experienced level salary estimate
1,352
projected annual job openings
Many ways to make a difference.
When you think about healthcare, your thoughts likely turn to doctors and nurses, and caring for patients. Career opportunities in healthcare today are not only in high demand they are also highly diverse – spanning a range of specialist areas and different settings from home to hospital. For many healthcare positions you can get your start with a certificate, and advance your career with an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Additional In Demand Careers in Health Sciences
Sources:
Texas Labor Market Information, Texas Workforce Commission. Statewide wages by occupation, 2021. Statewide projections by occupation, 2020-2030.
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