Type in a career question:
salary_header

How to become a Dental Hygienist?

1 Answer(s)
Top Answer
Talent.com talent.com
Answered February 26 2021
Career Expert at Talent.com
Dental Hygienists in the United States need to have the proper education, licenses, and career in order to practice. The first step to become a Dental Hygienist is to get a degree in Dental Hygiene. Both undergraduate degrees and associate degrees are available in this field and can be studied in universities, colleges, dental schools or institutes. All education programs need to be approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). If interested, aspiring Dental Hygienists can also advance their education further. The accredited programs for Dental Hygienists cover topics such as clinical sciences, basic sciences and also offer clinical experience.  
  
Once completing the required education, a Dental Hygienist needs to become licensed in the state where they wish to practice. Requirements vary from state to state so it is important to research what is necessary in each location. Once qualified a Dental Hygienist can write the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination that the American Dental Association administers. Additional licensing is also necessary depending on where the Dental Hygienist wishes to practice. 
  
After completing the education and licenses required for Dental Hygienists they can apply a career and add “RDH” for Registered Dental Hygienist after their title. 

Skills required for Dental Hygienists 
  • Communication 
Dental Hygienists work closely with both the Dentists and their patients, they are required to have strong communication and interpersonal skills. The Dental Hygienist will need to communicate with patients to let them know what exactly they are doing and tell them about any irregularities or educate them on their oral health. They will also need to communicate with the Dentist about the patient’s oral history and their current status. 

  • Attention to Detail 
Dental Hygienists work very closely with the oral health of each patient. Considering the small area that they work with they need to have a strong attention to detail when working with their patients because any errors could have lasting effects. Additionally, the Dental Hygienists will need to brief the Dentist properly on each patient and it is important that they do not miss any details 
  
  • Dexterity 
Along with attention to detail it is important that Dental Hygienists have a lot of manual dexterity. The role of a Dental Hygienist includes a lot of manual work involving sharp tools and working with a small space. Having steady hands and agility is a skill that Dental Hygienists need in order to be successful in their career.   
Easteregg!