Those interested in learning about how to become a dental hygienist are often pleased to see the ample employment opportunities in this industry. Training is typically as long as traditional college career paths and graduates can find work all over the country. Median pay rates for these positions are typically above fifty thousand dollars and skills can be transferred from one position to another. Hygienists work in dental offices in partnership with dentists.
Dental Hygienist Education
Dental hygienist requirements vary from state to state however in general people are trained in about 24 months. Two year degrees are offered at traditional colleges as well as community colleges and vocation schools. Graduates typically attain an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. This can prepare them for work in a private practice, the military, hospitals and other places where dental hygienist positions are offered. Some degrees are also earned at four year universities and graduates come away with a bachelor’s in dental hygiene. For candidates on this path, general education requirements in English, psychology, sociology, biology and chemistry are often required. While the particular job market that a graduate is in will determine the level of education required, many employers hire individuals with a two year degree. It is difficult to gain admittance to these programs without required prerequisites. For instance some schools require that candidates complete at least one year of higher education before beginning a program in dental hygiene. Some programs will accept candidates who have high entrance exam scores or who have taken applicable courses in high school.
Dental Hygienist Training
Becoming a dental hygienist requires hands-on training as well as classroom instruction. Just like any other position in a medical related field, hygienists go through rigorous programs that sometimes deal with real life patients who receive care at a reduced cost. Potential students interested in these types of courses should look for programs that offer this kind of training. One of the major drawbacks for new graduates of any type of school is their lack of work experience. Hygienists that train on real people have the added benefit of real life experience that employers like to see. Once these individuals are fully trained and licensed, they will go to work side-by-side with dentists in the field helping to promote oral hygiene, clean patient’s teeth and education patients on how to care for their teeth and gums on their own. Some hygienists may perform more advanced procedures such as filling cavities.
Dental Hygienist Requirements
A dental hygienist degree is not the only requirement to begin a career in this field. Graduates must attain licensure in the state within which they plan to practice. A qualified candidate will have graduated from an accredited hygiene program and also must have passed written and clinical exams. Along with a regional or state administered clinical exam, graduates must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam. This examination is administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations and is required in almost all states. Without this licensure, graduates cannot begin working as a dental hygienist. The JCNDE takes applications for testing appointments from approved graduates of an accredited institution.
Just like a dentist, medical doctor, EMT or other medical professional, dental hygienists are held to a very high standard. Initial schooling typically requires that an individual attend a two year or four year university and graduate with at least a C average. Once their formal education is finished, graduates must apply to take state and/or regional clinical examinations. This could be including or in addition to the National Board Dental Hygiene exam. State licensure is required in virtually all states within the U.S. and the profession is highly regulated.
More Articles on How to Be a Dental Hygienist:
http://dentistry.about.com/od/dentalhygienist/Become_a_Dental_Hygienist.htm
http://www.becomeopedia.com/how-to/become-a-dental-hygienist.php