Choosing a career as a dental hygienist can be highly successful and rewarding, offering a unique blend of patient care, dental expertise, and flexible work options. Dental hygienists play a crucial role in oral healthcare, focusing on preventive measures, educating patients about oral hygiene, and assisting dentists with various procedures, including those in emergency situations. The career is also notable for its high demand and competitive salaries. In emergency scenarios, the skills of a dental hygienist are invaluable, often working alongside an emergency dentist to provide critical care. With opportunities for advancement and the satisfaction of making a significant impact on patients' oral and overall health, a career as a dental hygienist offers both professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Dental hygiene offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the oral health of every person who visits the dentist's office. Dental hygienists can benefit from a range of perks provided by their employers, such as paid vacation, sick leave, insurance coverage, professional membership fees, and tuition support for continuing education. With high salaries and flexible hours, dental hygiene is often ranked as one of the best careers in healthcare. Each patient requires different interactions, oral care, and dental health education, so you must be prepared to adjust your style and communication methods accordingly. An ADEA staff member and dental hygienist reflects on his experience in the field and highlights the many options available through Carrington College's dental hygiene program.
Earning an associate degree prepares you to work as a dental hygienist and gain valuable experience in the dental field. From parenthood to retirement, being a dental hygienist offers tremendous flexibility and benefits. Compared to dental assistants and dentists, dental hygienists have the most one-on-one interaction with patients. To be successful in this role, you must be patient, understanding, thoughtful, passionate, quick on your feet, and positive. As the population ages and people keep more of their original teeth than previous generations, there is an increased need for dental care.
Your actual salary will depend on factors such as where you live and your level of experience, but the national median gives you an idea of the competitive salary that dental hygienists can earn. ADEA's DHCASSM service provides dental hygiene applicants with a standardized application for entry-level, graduate-level and graduate programs. As a dental hygienist, you can enjoy the satisfaction that comes from using your hands and mind. Working in this type of environment allows you to interact with people of different ages and backgrounds every day, help alleviate any fears they may have, and ensure that their visits go smoothly.
