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Job descriptions: Dental hygienist

A dental hygienist is an important component in the oral healthcare industry. A hygienist uses their knowledge and clinical skills to assist dentists and provide dental hygiene care for patients.

Dental hygiene offers exceptional career opportunities in a rapidly expanding industry. If you enjoy working with others and helping people, then a career as a dental hygienist may be for you! Dental hygienist training is a minimum of two years college coursework that combines classroom work and clinical hours. Upon completion of their education, graduates should be prepared to provide oral care to patients in healthcare institutions, dental offices and clinics. It is important that prospective students choose a reliable, accredited dental hygienist school that provides a solid educational foundation.

Dental hygienists are a valuable asset in a dental practice. In addition to performing technical duties, they play a pivotal role in instructing patients about proper oral hygiene techniques and advising them on nutrition and its impact on oral health.

Due to state regulations, dental hygienist duties vary from state to state. The most common tasks performed include:

• Removing plaque and build up from surface of teeth
• Taking and developing dental X-rays
• Applying sealants and fluoride to teeth
• Teaching patients proper oral hygiene techniques so that they may maintain oral health
• Making impressions of patients’ teeth so that they may be examined by the dentist
• Performing clerical duties for the dental office

A career as a dental hygienist can be extraordinarily rewarding and challenging. A dental hygienist enjoys fulfilling positions that allow them to work with people and perform a valuable service for society. Other job perks that a dental hygienist enjoys include flexible scheduling and an in-demand career with numerous job opportunities.