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Dental Hygenist Schools

Dental hygienists are now responsible for many of the tasks that dentists used to perform, such as cleaning teeth and advising patients about dental hygiene. If you are interested in a career in dentistry, but don't have the time or money to become a licensed dentist, then a dental hygienist program might be the right choice for you.

Dental Hygienist Salaries

The average salary for a Dental Hygienist across the U.S., according to data from SalaryWizard.com as of June 2006, was $71,461 -- with a low salary of $60,832 and a high of $74,074. Median hourly earnings were estimated at $28.05, per statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor. Of course, earnings can vary by your geographic location, site of your dental office, and years of experience in the industry.

Dental Hygienist Job Comparison

Compared to other jobs, the U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment of Dental Hygienists is expected to grow much faster than average through 2014, ranking among the 30 fastest growing occupations. Because some hygienists only work two to three days a week, job prospects are expected to remain excellent for full-time, part-time or job sharing employment.

To work as a practicing dental hygienist, you must first attend a dental hygienist school. Here you will receive the training and schooling necessary to work in this rewarding, yet increasingly competitive field. (Dental assistants and dental hygienists are not the same. The former assists a dentist while hygienists works with patients directly. Dental hygienists also require more schooling than dental assistants.)

Dental Hygenist School Curriculum

Dental hygienist schools offer associate, bachelor, and even master's degrees. Training is provided in several key areas, including advising patients on proper dental hygiene, cleaning teeth, taking X-rays, operating and sterilizing dental equipment, and preparing dental adhesives and anesthesia.

Although coursework will vary depending on the level of study, it generally includes a combination of clinical, laboratory, and classroom instruction. Topics of study include anatomy, clinical dental hygiene, dental materials, nutrition, pathology, periodontology, pharmacology, and radiography.

Dental Hygenist Career Options

Graduates of dental hygenist programs usually work in dental offices. This is most appropriate for individuals who like to work with people, as dental hygienist are required to educate patients about proper dental care. Some dental hygienists also perform orthodontic and restoration procedures (under a dentist's supervision).

Demand for dental hygienists is strong and promises to remain so, as dental practices try to control costs and patients become more aware of preventative dental care. In fact, dental hygienists are on the Department of Labor's list of the nation's 30 fastest growing occupations. That means you'll have more choices when it comes to landing the right job.

Request enrollment info from the dental hygienist schools listed below today. It's free and there's no obligation.

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