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Dental Hygienist Education: How to Become a Dental Hygienist
Dental Hygienist Education:
How to Become a Dental Hygienist
Are you interested in dental hygienist education? According to the American Dental Hygienist's Association (ADHA), the signs and symptoms of serious diseases like diabetes, HIV, and eating disorders appear in your mouth long before they become obvious in the rest of your body. As awareness of this vital link between dental health and overall health continues to increase, the demand for qualified dental hygienists has also expanded, making this career field a fulfilling option.
If you would enjoy a career that allows you to become one of the first lines of defense against disease, here are some pointers on becoming a dental hygienist.
Pick a Program
The first step in becoming a dental hygienist is to obtain the necessary education. When it comes to dental hygienist programs, many options are available. If you are looking for career-focused training that can allow you to graduate ready to pursue an entry-level position, a certificate or diploma program from a career college or vocational school could be your best option. However, if you are interested in a more advanced education that can also provide a solid theoretical background, as well as general education courses, a degree program from a college or university might be the better choice.
The length of a dental hygienist program varies by school, and also by education level. While some certificate or diploma programs can be completed in a year or less, the average is two years. Degree programs can be up to four years in length.
As for program curriculums, most schools begin with a solid foundation of knowledge in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and periodontology—the study of gum diseases. You could then have the opportunity to develop hands-on clinical skills, including how to clean teeth, take X-rays, and educate patients on oral health. Depending on your program level, your education could also include the study of microbiology, pathology, dental ethics and law, and behavioral sciences. Some degree programs may also allow you to choose general education electives, such as algebra and chemistry.
Gain Industry Experience
Another important step in becoming a dental hygienist can be obtaining real-life experience. Therefore, before you choose a dental hygienist program, it is a good idea to find out what kind of hands-on experience is included. Some programs may allow you to log clinical hours in an on-site laboratory equipped with industry-related equipment. In addition, many programs also offer the opportunity to participate in an externship upon the completion of your courses.
Externships typically take place off-site at a private dental office or dental clinic. Although most are unpaid, they give you the chance to work within an actual dental environment, under the supervision of dentists and other dental professionals. The average length of dental hygienist externships is one to three months.
Receive Industry Certification
After you have graduated from a dental hygienist program, your next step is to successfully take the industry certification examination in order to become a licensed dental hygienist. Although licensing requirements can vary by state, in the U.S., dental hygienist certification is regulated by the American Dental Association (ADA). The examination is typically administered by state or regional testing agencies, and can include both a written and a clinical portion.
Once you have successfully taken the licensing examination, you are eligible to pursue dental hygienist positions. However, many states require you to renew your license on a regular basis, which could make it necessary for you to obtain continuing education credits.
Now that you have a better understanding of the requirements to become a dental hygienist, the next step is to find the school and program that matches your specific goals and needs. Browse this dental hygienist education guide and start on the path to a fulfilling dental hygienist career today!
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