What does a Dental Hygienist do?
Dental Assistants work at dentist’s offices, orthodontic practices and dental surgery centers to help administer patient care during dental cleanings and oral surgery. Dental Assistants educate patients about procedures and dental maintenance, give instructions for oral care, order x-rays and other scans and reach out to patients about scheduling routine appointments. They set up dental exam tables, assist during cleanings and fillings and hold dental instruments like suction tubs and mirrors while the Dentist works. Dental Assistants also keep track of administrative duties like scheduling patients, stocking supplies and billing patients or insurance providers.
Dental Hygienist skills and qualifications
Aside from technical knowledge and skills, Dental Hygienists must have:
- Verbal and written communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Interpersonal skills
- The ability to convey complex health information in a simple way
- The ability to interact with young and old patients
- Excellent critical-thinking skills
- Drive to stay up to date on latest dental tools and methods
Dental Hygienist salary expectations
A Dental Hygienist makes an average of $38.44 per hour. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Dental Hygienist education and training requirements
Dental Hygienists need at least an associate degree in dental hygiene, though some employers may require a bachelor’s degree. Associate programs last three years, and bachelor’s programs last four years. Each program contains a mix of classroom study and clinical training. These educational programs prepare students for a Dental Hygienist career as soon as they graduate.
Dental Hygienists also need to have a state license, and requirements vary by state. Usually, a Dental Hygienist needs to graduate from a dental hygiene program and pass an exam. They also need to complete continuing education to keep the license current.
Dental Hygienist experience requirements
After meeting the necessary education and training requirements, a person can start working as a Dental Hygienist. So, even though a posting may ask for an entry-level candidate with no formal experience, applicants will have gained some real-world experience during their time as a student. Employers seeking a Dental Hygienist who can perform more detailed procedures, like placing temporary crowns, might ask for at least three years of experience.
Job description samples for similar positions
If you’re writing a job description for a related position to the Dental Hygienist, see our job descriptions for similar roles: