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Dental Hygienist Schools: FAQs and Answers
Dental Hygienist Schools: FAQs and Answers
Dental health can have a huge impact on overall health, making it a fulfilling career field. By choosing one of the available dental hygienist schools for your post-secondary education, you can gain the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful future in the dental industry. Find answers here to some of the most commonly asked questions about this rewarding career choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental hygienist?
A dental hygienist is a dental health professional who is responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to oral hygiene, as well as the treatment and prevention of oral diseases. They can also perform dental x-rays, assist dentists during treatments and procedures, and educate patients on proper dental care.
How can I find dental hygienist schools in my area?
This online directory of dental hygienist schools is a great place to begin your research into the post-secondary education options that are available. You can learn more about individual schools and programs, and send requests for additional information directly to specific schools that interest you.
What is the average dental hygienist salary?
The most recent national statistics, from May 2009, show that the median annual wage was $67,340.* However, salaries do vary according to state, and can also fluctuate depending on the specific type of dental setting you choose to work in.
What skills can I gain through dental hygienist training?
You can learn to thoroughly examine patients' teeth and gums, looking for signs of gingivitis, oral cancer, and other diseases. You will also develop the hands-on skills to use a variety of dental tools and equipment in order to thoroughly clean and polish teeth. In addition, you can gain the strong communication skills needed to effectively educate patients on proper oral hygiene procedures. Many programs also cover dental radiography techniques, as well as administrative-related skills, such as recording and maintaining patient records and dental histories.
What are the prerequisites for attending dental hygienist schools?
Most schools will require that you hold a high school diploma, or have successfully received a GED (the credential earned from passing the General Education Development tests).
What types of programs are offered at dental hygienist schools?
You can choose from a few different educational options. Many schools will offer short-term, career-oriented certificate or diploma programs that are mainly hands-on and designed to let you graduate and enter the workforce quickly. However, degree programs also exist, and in addition to hands-on training, they generally include strong theoretical training as well as general education courses.
How long does it take to complete dental hygienist training?
Certificate and diploma programs can often be completed in less than a year, but may be up to two years in length. Degree programs typically take up to four years to complete.
What are the dental hygienist requirements for certification?
Before you can enter the workforce, you will need to pass a licensure exam in order to become certified. These exams vary by state, but generally include both a written and a clinical portion.
Where can I find work after completing dental hygienist training?
While the majority of jobs are found within private dentists' offices, some do exist within physicians' offices, general medical or surgical hospitals, outpatient care centers, and more.
Where can I find additional information on how to become a dental hygienist?
This article, "Dental Hygienist Education: How to Become a Dental Hygienist," can provide you with more information on the necessary steps to pursue a career in dental hygiene.
What's next?
Now that you have a better understanding of this vital career field, your next step is to find the individual school and program that will match your educational and career goals. This directory of dental hygienist schools is a great place to begin!
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, web site accessed February 21, 2011.
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