Are you interested in becoming a dental hygienist? A dental hygienist plays a very important role in dental care. It takes special skills, knowledge and training to become a dental hygienist.
Significance
Dental hygienists are very significant to the healthcare industry. They work closely with dentists to take care of patients' dental needs. A dental hygienist performs a variety of tasks, including cleaning and evaluating teeth, making assessments and teaching patients properly care for their teeth.
Function
Many dental hygienists find their job rewarding and exciting, but dental hygienists are also required to perform some challenging tasks. Dental hygienists are responsible for important duties such as examining the patient's teeth and gums, taking dental x-rays and developing the film, removing stains and plaque from the teeth, and teaching patients properly care for their teeth by using proper dental hygienic techniques. Ultimately, dental hygienists strive to keep their patients teeth clean and in good condition.
Time Frame
In order to become a dental hygienist, one must earn an associate's degree from an accredited dental hygiene program. It takes approximately 2 years to complete the program requirements, which includes receiving classroom instruction, supervised clinical experience and taking the appropriate examinations.
Before you can work as a dental hygienist, you must earn your license and become a Registered Dental Hygienist. You must successfully pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, which is a clinical and written test. In addition, most states also require candidates to pass a test about the legal components of dental hygiene.
Benefits
Dental hygienists can work in a variety of settings, such as private dental practices, research facilities, hospitals, public health clinics, dental corporations and schools. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the job outlook for dental hygienists is outstanding, and this occupation is one of the fastest rising careers today.
Also, dental hygienists have flexible work schedules and many facilities allow dental hygienists to work the days and times that best suits their own personal schedule.
In addition, most dental hygienists receive an impressive benefits package with their job, which includes health insurance, a retirement plan and paid holidays, vacation and sick leave.
Warning
There are a couple of potential health hazards involved with the role of a dental hygienist. For example, although dental hygienists are required to wear appropriate safety glasses, masks and clothing, they are still exposed to infectious diseases and therefore are at risk of becoming infected with a disease when working with patients.
Also, dental hygienists work with a variety of dental tools, instruments, x-ray machines and ultrasonic devices which can cause serious injuries if not properly used.
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