Getting started with becoming a dental hygienist requires dedication to a minimum of two years of training. The person who chooses this profession should be one who is patient and caring. This is a health care field that many people have a natural aversion and fear of. Coaxing a patient into relaxing may be a challenge.

A hygienist has various duties and what those exact duties are depend on the state they will work in. They review medical histories, educate patients on proper brushing, flossing and gum care and discuss what foods affect teeth negatively. They will remove the plaque or tartar on teeth, and clean and polish teeth. Sealants and fluorides may also be applied to prevent cavities.

Hygienists may take x-rays and develop them and access and test the mouth looking for anything abnormal. In some states they can administer anesthetics, place and remove fillings and prepare temporary fillings. They can also periodontal dressings and polish metal restorations.

This is a career where half of those working in it have part time hours. This presents great flexibility with hours. Many hygienists work in more than one dental office, since they may only have one in a few times a week. This may be preferred to going to the same office to the same people everyday. The benefits will vary depending on the employer, although dental care is usually given even when nothing else is. No benefits are required for a part time position. Those working in schools and public health offices will typically be in full time positions.

Training will involve getting either an associate degree or a bachelor degree. There also some certificate programs available. Either the certificate program or two year degree is acceptable to work in a private dental practice. To work in a school, public health program or for a government agency, the bachelor degree is a must, in some cases a masters degree. When choosing the school make sure the school and its program are accredited.

Once school is completed national and state board exams must be taken. The national exam is a written one and administered by the American Dental Association Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. The state boards are a clinical exam. This involves getting a patient and performing some hygienist work on them. The work is then evaluated. There may also be an exam on the legalities involved in the career, if the state requires it. When these are passed, a license is issued to legally practice.

The average starting salary is about $30,000. The median salary is more than $50,000. The top 10 percent are paid in excess of $90,000. Pay will vary from state to state and depend on training and experience. What type of office worked in can affect salary and the level of degree obtained will do the same.

A dental hygienist is one of the fastest growing careers. Job growth is predicted to grow by thirty percent by 2016. Starting salaries may increase due to the demand. There are consistently more jobs available than there are hygienists. Feel confident that once training is completed a job can be found.

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