Dental hygienists are required to have a state license and a degree from an accredited dental hygienist college program in order to work in the United State. As many as 50 percent of hygienists work part time, because the job allows for excellent pay with flexible scheduling. This makes it a great position for someone who wants to work part-time and stay home with family the rest of the time or do other things. In some state, dental hygienists can even become certified to administer anesthesia to patients. Dental hygienists will often assist dentists during oral surgeries and other dental procedures.
Job Outlook for Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists have one of the best job outlooks in the nation. The United State Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job growth in this field will increase by 36 percent between now and 2018. This amazing growth will be created by younger dentists who utilize dental hygienist more than older retiring dentists. Also, a retiring population will create a need for more assistance with dental care as the baby boomers age. The best jobs will be in areas where there aren't abundant dental hygienists working already, because certain regions reach a point of saturation with dental hygienists. This is caused by the fact that they can work in the state that they are licensed in.
Salaries for Dental Hygienists
Even working part-time, dental hygienists can make great hourly rates. For example in 2008, the median wages for dental hygienists based on a yearly salary were between $55,000 and $78,000. The top ten percent made over $91,000. Some dentists pay their hygienists bonuses for bringing in new patients and selling extra services like teeth whitening, sealants, etc. This information was gathered from the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Educational Programs for Dental Hygienists
Remember, dental hygienists must graduate from an accredited dental hygienist program with a degree. They must also become licensed in the state where they want to work. There's good news, colleges have some excellent accredited dental hygienist programs available right now, so find out more today.
Do you want a job where you work with people and help them be healthier and feel better about themselves every day? A career as a dental hygienist allows you to do all of these things. Dental hygienists are a dentist's right hand person. They work to remove plague from patient gums and educate patients in how to take care of their teeth. They also examine patient's mouths and record the information. A dental hygienist is also in charge of a patient's preventive dental care. They apply cavity preventing agents like fluoride and put sealants on teeth to help prevent cavities and decay.
