Dental hygienists are one of the fastest rising professions in the United States of America. They are not only an integral part of any dental office but also play a vital role in promoting oral health. But that’s not the only reason to become a dental hygienists, there many reasons to become a dental hygienists.

Never have dental hygienists been so in-demand and had so many opportunities in the job market. Due to the explosion of the digital age, many colleges and universities offer their dental hygienists programs online, which means that a lot of your learning can be done digitally.

While licensure requirements vary from state to state, most states require dental hygienists to complete continuing education courses on regularly. If you’re looking to enter the profession, here’s how you can become a dental hygienist in the United States of America:

Requirements of Becoming a Dental Hygienist in the USA

How does someone became a dental hygienist in the United Sates? In order to become a dental hygienist in the United States of America, you will need to complete an accredited dental hygiene program (which usually last two to three years) and pass a National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. After completing the program, you will also need to obtain a state license in order to practice dental hygiene. Some other things you may need include strong communication skills, good organizational skills, and the ability to work well under pressure.

In addition to the educational requirements, most states also require continuing education credits to maintain licensure. Dental hygienists must also keep up with new technology and advances in their field by attending seminars and taking courses throughout their career.

To recap:

• To be eligible for licensure, applicants must graduate from an accredited dental hygiene program with either an Associate’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree.
• After graduation, candidates must pass a written examination and a clinical skills examination administered by the state board of dentistry.
• Upon successful completion of these exams, dental hygienists are then licensed to practice in their state.

It is also important for dental hygienists to be aware of changes in technology and advances in their field by attending seminars and taking courses throughout their career. With the right education and training, you can become a dental hygienist in the United States of America!

If you need more resources, check out our resources page as we list the best resources for prospective dental hygienists.  Also, the American Dental Hygienist Association is also a great resource.

Dental hygienists have the unique opportunity to blend clinical work with patient education. In their daily duties, dental hygienists provide a wide variety of preventative dental care services, including tooth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and X-rays. They also have the important job of educating patients on proper oral hygiene and care. Dental hygienists explain topics like flossing techniques, how to select toothbrushes, and the link between diet and oral health. This one-on-one interaction allows them to build trust and rapport with patients, which is essential for providing quality care. In addition, dental hygienists often have more flexible work schedules than dentists and assistants, making it easier to balance work and life commitments. For all these reasons, pursuing a career in dental hygiene can be a rewarding experience. 

We have listed the top 10 reasons we believe why you should be a dental hygienist.

1. You get to help people maintain their oral health, which is essential for overall health

Dental hygienists are an important part of the oral health care team. They help people to maintain their oral health, which is essential for overall health. Dental hygienists remove plaque and tartar from teeth, and they also teach people how to brush and floss their teeth properly. Dental hygienists are gratifying, interesting, and important because they help people to maintain their oral health.

2. You have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, from private practices to hospitals

There is a misconception that as a dental hygienist, you will be confined to a private dental office – this cannot be further from the truth. Dental hygienists have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, from private practices to hospitals. dental clinics, community health centers, dental schools, research institutes, and even public health departments. The work environment you choose will depend on your personal preferences and goals.

3. You can have a flexible work schedule

One of the great things about being a dental hygienist is that you can have a flexible work schedule. Dental hygienists often have the option to work part-time or full-time, and they may also be able to choose their hours. This flexibility is especially beneficial if you have young children at home or other responsibilities that make it difficult to work a traditional 9-5 job.

4. You get to educate patients about oral health

Dental hygienists play an important role in educating patients about oral health. Dental hygienists explain topics like flossing techniques, how to select toothbrushes, and the link between diet and oral health. This one-on-one interaction allows them to build trust and rapport with patients, which is essential for providing quality care.

5. You have the opportunity to pursue a career in dental hygiene

For all these reasons, pursuing a career in dental hygiene can be a rewarding experience. If you are interested in becoming a dental hygienist, there are a few things you should know. First, dental hygienists need to have either an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited dental hygiene program. In addition, dental hygienists must be licensed in the state where they practice. If you are interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene, there are many resources available to help you get started.

6. The job market for dental hygienists is growing, so there are plenty of opportunities for employment

The job market for dental hygienists is growing, so there are plenty of opportunities for employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of dental hygienist jobs will grow by 20 percent from 2016 to 2026. This growth is due to an aging population and an increased emphasis on preventive care. If you are interested in a career in dental hygiene, now is a great time to get started.

7. Dental hygienists make a difference in the lives of their patients

Dental hygienists make a difference in the lives of their patients. Every day, dental hygienists help people to achieve and maintain good oral health. the challenging and rewarding part of the profession allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Bad dental health has been linked to diabetes, heart disease and stroke – therefore, you can help people to avoid these serious health problems by being a dental hygienist.

8. You can have a successful career without working long hours

You can have a successful career without working long hours. Many dental hygienists work part-time or full-time, and they often have the option to choose their hours. This flexibility is beneficial if you have young children at home or other responsibilities that make it difficult to work a traditional 9-5 job.

9. You will never get bored as a dental hygienist

You will never get bored as a dental hygienist. The dental hygiene profession offers a variety of challenges and opportunities for growth. You can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, dental clinics, community health centers, dental schools, research institutes, and even public health departments. You can also pursue a career in dental hygiene education or dental research.

10. You can make a good salary as a dental hygienist

Dental hygienists are well-compensated for their work. The median annual salary for dental hygienists is $74,070, and dental hygienists at the top of the pay scale can make over $100,000 per year. In addition, dental hygienists often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Conclusion

There are a lot of reasons to be a dental hygienist – we have listed out what we feel are some of the best reasons why. Now, if you are convinced and want to become a dental hygienists, learn of the next steps on how to become a dental hygienist in the United States. If you need more dental hygienist resources, we provide a list for both American and Canadian prospective students.