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Dental Hygienist

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Dental hygienists work in dentists’ offices to provide preventive dental care. Some of the tasks they perform are:

  • Removing deposits from teeth
  • Performing fluoride treatments
  • Applying sealants
  • Taking x-rays
  • Examining teeth and gums
  • Assisting dentists during other procedures

Manual dexterity is a key qualification to become a dental hygienist.

All dental hygienists must be licensed by their states. Requirements for licenses vary from state-to-state. Typically you obtain a license after graduating from an accredited dental hygiene school (usually an associate degree program) and passing the following exams:

  • A written exam given by the American Dental Association’s Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations
  • A clinical exam, given by your state or regional testing office
  • An exam on legal aspects of dental hygiene

Most dental hygienists work in dentists’ offices and many work part-time.

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 Dental Hygienist/Assistant

Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor