If you’ve ever had your teeth cleaned at the dentist, chances are you’ve met a dental hygienist. But there’s more to the job than cleanings and friendly reminders to floss! Dental hygienists help people keep their mouths healthy, prevent disease and feel good about their smiles. Let’s take a look at what it’s like to be a dental hygienist and how to become one.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Dental hygienists are licensed dental workers who team up with dentists to provide preventive care and teach patients how to take care of their teeth. Their tasks may include:
- Cleaning teeth and removing plaque and tartar
- Taking and developing dental x-rays
- Applying fluoride and sealants
- Assessing patients’ oral health and documenting conditions
- Educating patients on proper brushing, flossing and nutrition
- Helping the dentist during checkups or treatments
Rules for what hygienists can do vary by state, but they are trained to look for signs of gum disease, tooth decay and even other health issues that may show up in the mouth.
Where Do Dental Hygienists Work?
Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices, but they can also work in:
- Public health clinics
- Schools and mobile dental units
- Long-term care facilities
- Sales or customer service roles at dental companies
- Education and research institutions
Many hygienists enjoy flexible schedules, with options for part-time, full-time or weekend work. This makes it easier to balance work and life.
What Skills and Qualifications are Needed?
Dental hygienists use both technical skills and people skills. Some of the most important ones are:
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination
- Compassion and patience
- An interest in health and learning new things
How to Become a Dental Hygienist
To become a dental hygienist, you’ll need:
- An associate degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program (some people go on to earn a bachelor’s degree for additional opportunities in research, teaching or public health).
- A license, which means passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, a clinical board exam and the state’s jurisprudence exam.
Once you become a dental hygienist, you will need continuing education, which is required to keep your license and stay up to date on new tools and skills.
Dental Hygienist Salary & Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for dental hygienists was $94,260 as of May 2024. Jobs for dental hygienists are expected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than most careers. As more people need preventive dental care, the demand for hygienists will keep rising.
Why Dental Hygienists Matter
Dental hygienists are a key part of the dental care team. They are largely responsible for establishing patient recall visits, the key to helping patients prevent disease and enhance their oral health. The hygienist is often the first dental professional that a new patient is seen by and serves to help educate patients on the oral systemic relationship and the value of oral care. They ensure that patients stay educated and feel more comfortable during their visits. Whether calming a nervous child, spotting early signs of gum disease or helping someone feel proud of their smile, hygienists make a real difference every day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Hygienists
What is the difference between a dental hygienist and a dentist?
Dentists interpret radiographs, diagnose and treat dental problems, perform procedures like fillings, extractions, crowns and root canals and lead the dental team. Hygienists focus more on preventive care, fluoride application, sealants, cleanings and patient education, and although they do anesthetize patients on occasion, they usually work under a dentist’s supervision.
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?
Most dental hygienists complete a 2- to 3-year associate degree program. Some go on to earn a bachelor’s degree for more career options in teaching, research or public health.
Is dental hygiene a good career?
Yes! Dental hygiene offers good pay, job security and flexible hours. Many hygienists also say it’s rewarding because they get to help people every day.
Do dental hygienists have flexible work schedules?
Yes! Many hygienists enjoy part-time, full-time or even weekend-only roles, making it a great career for work-life balance or those with family obligations.
Can dental hygienists specialize in certain areas?
While they aren’t dental specialists, some hygienists choose to focus on areas like pediatric care, gum health (periodontics) or public health. Earning an advanced degree can open more doors.
Is continuing education required for dental hygienists?
Yes. Most states require dental hygienists to complete continuing education (CE) courses to maintain licensure and stay up to date on new tools and techniques.
What’s a typical day like for a dental hygienist?
A typical day might include cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, checking for oral conditions, educating patients and assisting the dentist during exams. It’s a mix of hands-on work and one-on-one care.
