Being a dental hygienist is a rewarding and fulfilling career that offers stability, flexibility, and a competitive salary. Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who focus on preventing and treating tooth and gum infections. They are responsible for educating patients about the importance of oral health, providing dietary tips to prevent tooth decay, and offering advice on quitting smoking to prevent periodontal disease and oral cancer. The best dental hygienists can put themselves in the patient's shoes and show compassion and empathy for any pain, discomfort, or concern the person may have. The rigorous training and education of dental hygienists provides them with the skills needed to remove all harmful buildup from teeth and gums.
In addition to establishing a daily brushing and flossing routine, the best way to care for your oral health is to visit a dental hygienist regularly. A good oral hygienist can help inspire patients to take charge of their physical health and give them a renewed sense of optimism so that they can better respond to dental hygiene instructions and suggestions. Your real salary will depend on factors such as where you live and how experienced you are, but the national median gives you a good idea of the competitive salary that dental hygienists can earn. If you're ready to start your professional career in dental hygiene, you can earn your associate's degree in less than two years at Carrington College. Carrington College's dental hygiene program provides you with the skills you need to provide comprehensive dental hygiene care. Consequently, the focus on prevention and health promotion makes the dental hygienist a very important person in the dental team of the future.
Few careers can offer the stability, flexibility and a decent salary like dental hygiene and, at the same time, be emotionally and socially satisfying. Dental hygienists can work full or part time, and many hygienists work just a few days a week. Larry is the founder of the American Dental Cooperative; of the board of directors, of the American Dental Trade Associate and of several ADTA committees. From parenthood to a quiet retirement, being a dental hygienist offers you tremendous flexibility and benefits.