A lot of the work that is performed in a dentist office is done by a hygienist. Many people wonder how to become a dental hygienist because the job pays well and offers plenty of job security. Each state has its own licensing standards but in general the work and responsibilities are basically the same from state to state.
Hygienists will consult with patients in order to find out if the patient has any tooth pain or any other oral health concerns. Most hygienists are qualified to perform standard oral examinations in order to find any tooth or gum problems a patient might be suffering. Hygienists also will do a cursory examination of a patient's head and neck to check for any obvious abnormalities.
One of the most common tasks hygienists perform is tooth cleaning which involves scraping plaque that has built up and accumulated on a patient's teeth. Hygienists also remove stains from teeth that are caused by tobacco, coffee, and tea. In some cases a dentist will recommend that a patient should have fluoride applied directly to his teeth in which case hygienists are allowed to apply the fluoride treatment.
Most hygienists are qualified to take oral x-rays but in most dentist offices this job is performed by the assistant to the dentist. Hygienists in most states are licensed to take mouth molds that will be used for evaluation and to create mouth guards typically used by athletes when playing sports. Some states allow hygienists to apply fillings and perform the polishing of metal and plastic restorations.
Some states allow hygienists to give anesthetics to patients who need deep cleaning or diagnostic testing. Dentists suggest that patients that undergo deep cleaning have an anesthetic because cleaning will have to be performed under the gum line and the process can be painful if the patient does not receive a mild anesthetic. Deep cleaning can help prevent the onset of gum disease and tooth decay in some patients who have a genetic propensity to oral infections.
There is significant schooling involved in becoming a qualified hygienist. Training is challenging and not for the feint of heart. Courses include biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Training also includes lab work and clinical work experience including the study of anatomy and pathology.
There are several accredited programs that are accepting students both at community colleges and at private trade schools but some schools do have waiting lists. The person who is thinking about pursuing this career should think about spending a day in a dentist office, if possible, to find out exactly what the hygienist does all day before deciding to enroll in a program. Once the student completes her classroom education and clinical training she will be able to sit for her state and national board exams.
Most of the work done in a dentist office is performed by hygienists who clean teeth, take x-rays, and perform oral exams. Most hygienists are licensed to give anesthetics, take mouth molds, and to perform deep cleaning of teeth and gums. Many people are wondering how to become a dental hygienist because working in a dentist office allows a person to enjoy a good salary and have job security.
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