subject: How to Become a Dental Hygienist – Discover What it Takes to Become Successful in This Career [print this page] How to Become a Dental Hygienist Discover What it Takes to Become Successful in This Career
So, you want to become a dental hygienist? Well, you're in for a treat, because this article will introduce you to different aspects of this job. Starting from what you're expected to do and all the way to the salary you should expect, this is your guide to starting this career.
The Duties Expected from You
Before you decide whether or not this is the job for you, you need to understand what you will be doing. Basically, you will be in charge of some of the routine tasks dentists need done during treatments. The following are the duties you will be asked to perform as dental hygienist:
Clean teeth by removing tartar using dental floss and scalars
Provide guidance on oral hygiene to patients
Take and develop x-rays
Create tooth charts to help dentists track patients' dental history
In addition to these tasks, you will be asked to be present during surgery or treatments because you will be in charge of providing suction, administering anesthetics, and performing other small but significant procedures.
Dental Hygiene Degrees
To build your career in this field, you should get a degree in dental hygiene. Community colleges offer two-year degrees whereas universities offer four-year degrees. Your career as a dental hygienist depends on which of these qualifications you choose. If you plan on working in a private dental clinic, then a two-year degree followed by an associate's degree will be sufficient. On the other hand, if you earn your bachelor's or master's degree in dental hygiene, you can always work in research, administration or teaching.
Regardless of which of these options you plan on pursuing, you need to check with your prospective school's admission requirements. Most schools will need a high school diploma or GED, and good grades in math, chemistry, biology and English. Some programs also demand that a student aspiring to become a dental hygienist should complete one or two years of college. Yet, to be on the safe side, make sure that you contact the school offering the degree to ask about its requirements.
Your Expected Salary
There are a few factors which determine how much your future employers will pay you. Your location, type of degree, and years of experience definitely matter. However, you should expect to be paid between $56,000 and $71,000. If you're skilled enough, you have a better chance of earning even more, at least up to $77,000.
So, are you ready to become a dental hygienist? Then find out where you can get your degree and start this lucrative career as soon as possible.
