A dental hygienist is a licensed dental professional that performs a variety of dental procedures. Dental Hygienists specialize in preventative care and perform procedures including cleanings, root planning, taking and developing x-rays, and applying fluorides and sealants to teeth. Dental hygienists educate patients about oral hygiene, good practices, and healthy nutrition. In some states, dental hygienists are licensed to administer anesthesia. Dental hygienists work in offices of general dentists or dental specialists, health agencies, hospitals and health clinics. Dental hygienists may also work in dental schools or dental hygienist educational programs.

Dental Hygiene Training Requirements To Obtain A Dental Hygienist License

Dental hygienist training programs are available at dental schools, community colleges, or technical schools. Training to become a dental hygienist requires a two or four year degree prior to training. There are several training options including online distance education, as well as traditional classroom coursework. Training involves coursework in oral anatomy and physiology, as well as on-site clinical training.

Dental Hygienists are required to have a license to practice in their state. After graduation from an accredited training program, graduates are eligible to take the national examination administered by the American Dental Association�s Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. This is a national exam that is accepted by all states. After receiving licensure, dental hygienists may be referred to as Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH). Dental Hygienists are also required to be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).

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Dental Hygienist Schools and Degree Programs

There are 266 accredited dental hygienist training programs that are approved by the American Dental Association and the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Training programs include general courses in liberal arts, and basic sciences including anatomy, immunology, microbiology, and pathology. Courses in clinical and laboratory subjects include dental hygiene, radiology, histology, periodontology, clinical dental hygiene and dental materials.

Dental Hygienist Prerequisites

Prerequisites for dental hygienists training schools vary, while all require a high school diploma or equivalent, most require at least one year of college education. Courses to consider that are helpful to a career in dental hygiene include chemistry, biology, psychology, and mathematics. Various dental schools and colleges offer flexible course schedules that range from day, night and weekend classes and training sessions.

Dental Hygienist Continuing Education

Dental hygienists may pursue advanced degrees at the bachelor or doctorate level in order to embark on careers in education or research in the field dental hygiene. Search HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com to find continued education courses for Dental Hygienists.