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Related roles: Dental Hygienist, Hygienist, Licensed Dental Hygienist, Pediatric Dental Hygienist, Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)

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Tiêu đề tương tự

Dental Hygienist, Hygienist, Licensed Dental Hygienist, Pediatric Dental Hygienist, Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)

Mô tả công việc

Ideally, our teeth should last us a lifetime! But unlike the rest of our bodily internal structures, our teeth are directly exposed to the outside environment. This puts them at risk of exposure to bacteria, temperature changes, and physical wear and tear. Combined with other factors, these can contribute to cavities, root canal problems, enamel loss, and gum disease. That’s why we’ve got to take good care of our oral hygiene – and Dental Hygienists can help with that!

Dental Hygienists are the first line of defense in detecting oral health issues and providing preventive dental care. They clean teeth, apply protective sealants and fluoride treatments, take dental x-rays, look for problems, and educate patients on how to maintain good oral health. By focusing on prevention and early detection, they help us avoid problems in the future so our teeth can stay healthy for as long as possible!

Các khía cạnh bổ ích của sự nghiệp
  • Helping patients achieve and maintain good oral health
  • Identifying dental problems so they can be resolved as soon as possible
  • Working in a clean, professional environment
  • Good income potential and strong job outlook

"One of the most rewarding aspects of being a dental hygienist is the focus on preventing disease. While dentistry plays an essential role in fixing dental problems, such as placing fillings or crowns to restore damaged teeth, dental hygiene centers on preventing those issues from happening in the first place. Helping patients avoid extensive dental treatments is incredibly fulfilling. Maintaining health through prevention is the essence of dental hygiene.

Another rewarding part of being a dental hygienist is patient education and personalized care. Spending one-on-one time with patients to answer their questions, guide them in understanding their oral health, and tailor home care techniques and product recommendations to their specific needs creates strong, trusting relationships. Each patient’s lifestyle and habits are unique, so it’s essential to provide personalized solutions that fit their situation. Seeing a patient light up with understanding, knowing they have the tools and knowledge to care for their oral health effectively, is immensely satisfying.

These interactions make dental hygiene not just a clinical job but a compassionate role that impacts lives by preventing disease and enhancing well-being. Empowering patients to care for themselves and knowing that you’re helping them stay healthy is what makes this career so fulfilling." - Whitney DiFoggio, MA/RDH at Teeth Talk Girl

Việc làm năm 2023
214,100
Việc làm dự kiến năm 2033
233,700
Muỗng bên trong
Trách nhiệm công việc

Lịch làm việc

Dental Hygienists can work either full-time or part-time in dental offices.

Nhiệm vụ tiêu biểu

  • Take and develop dental x-rays (e.g., bitewing, panoramic) to identify issues.
  • Analyze X-rays for problems like impacted teeth, bone loss, and wisdom teeth.
  • Assess and document patient oral health. Report findings to the dentist.
  • Take patients’ blood pressure and pulse. Explain upcoming procedures to patients to help them understand what to expect.
  • Perform periodontal scaling and root planing to treat gum disease.
  • Clean and polish teeth, removing tartar, plaque, and stains.
    Use hand, power, and ultrasonic tools for thorough cleaning and stain removal.
  • Apply polishing pastes for smooth, bright teeth.
  • Apply fluoride treatments for enamel protection, especially for children.
  • Place sealants on cavity-prone teeth, especially for young patients.
  • Prepare and sterilize dental instruments and equipment. Set up treatment areas with necessary instruments and supplies.
  • Assist dentists during procedures by passing instruments, suctioning, and maintaining patient comfort.
  • Discuss treatment plans, including follow-up appointments and recommended dental work.
  • Educate patients on oral hygiene techniques, like proper brushing and flossing.
  • Advise on diet and oral care products (e.g., toothbrushes, floss).
  • Educate on aftercare for scaling and root planing.

Nhiệm vụ bổ sung

  • Manage inventory of dental supplies.
  • Monitor and maintain equipment functionality.
  • Take impressions of patients’ teeth for the creation of models and dental appliances.
  • Create digital charts for patients.
  • Support sedation or anesthesia administration by monitoring patient comfort and readiness.
  • Assist with dental emergencies.
  • Recognize signs of distress and act swiftly to provide appropriate first aid.
  • Help front office staff with appointment scheduling, as needed.
  • Document patient care and treatment plans for continuity.
  • Maintain clean work uniforms (scrubs).
  • Review patient charts for the day. 
Các kỹ năng cần thiết trong công việc

Kỹ năng mềm

  • Chú ý đến chi tiết
  • Truyền thông
  • Dịch vụ khách hàng
  • Cảm
  • Tập trung
  • Kỹ năng tổ chức
  • Kiên nhẫn
  • Giải quyết vấn đề
  • Làm việc theo nhóm

Kỹ năng kỹ thuật

Dental Hygienists need hard skills related to the following:

  • Dental equipment maintenance
  • Dental hygiene procedures and protocols
  • Dental impressions
  • Dental software such as Dentrix
  • Dental tools and instruments such as scalers, polishers, and x-ray equipment
  • Dental x-ray machines
  • Khéo léo
  • Infection control standards and health regulations
  • Medical record-keeping
  • Patient confidentiality and compliance
  • Lập kế hoạch
  • Sterilization procedures 

"Lĩnh vực này đòi hỏi sự kiên trì và chăm sóc. Mọi người quan trọng trong khi họ đang ở trên ghế của bạn nhiều như thủ tục bạn đang thực hiện; do đó, một bác sĩ lâm sàng phải sẵn sàng đọc tính cách của bệnh nhân, những gì giữ cho họ thoải mái và ngôn ngữ cơ thể. Lĩnh vực nha khoa là tất cả về chăm sóc cá nhân và lòng trắc ẩn xuất phát từ việc muốn làm việc với mọi người thuộc mọi loại và chăm sóc bệnh nhân của bạn, mỗi người.  Giao tiếp sẽ đưa RDH đi xa và thành công nhất trong con đường sự nghiệp này, khả năng thích hợp để giải thích những gì đang diễn ra và sử dụng các ví dụ vững chắc để có bệnh nhân liên quan trong các khía cạnh khác cũng là chìa khóa. Để duy trì một sự lựa chọn nghề nghiệp hoàn thành và sự điềm tĩnh trong lĩnh vực này, người ta nên thực sự làm việc trong một văn phòng nha khoa sớm để xem phạm vi của lĩnh vực đầu tiên, giới hạn của nó, và trọng lượng của nó trên cơ thể. Hầu hết không biết rằng nhân viên vệ sinh rất có thể là người đầu tiên điều trị cho bệnh nhân MỚI trong văn phòng, vì vậy phần lớn phụ thuộc vào cách chuyến thăm điều trị và chăm sóc cá nhân đầu tiên đó đi để có bệnh nhân trở lại. " - Marjan Shafieyan, RDH

Các loại tổ chức khác nhau
  • Private dental practices
  • Public health clinics
  • Bệnh viện
  • Viện dưỡng lão
  • Trường
Kỳ vọng và hy sinh

Dental Hygienists play a vital role in delivering quality care while building positive relationships with patients. The job requires a strong focus on patient comfort and safety, along with the stamina for long hours of standing and bending. With multiple patients to see daily, good time management is essential, as is the ability to stay calm under pressure.

Following strict health and safety standards is a must, so Dental Hygienists should be well-versed in policies and health codes. Staying updated on new technologies and procedures is also important and helps them provide the best care possible.

Xu hướng hiện tại

The dental hygiene field is evolving with a focus on preventive care. Dental Hygienists play a key role in this shift, educating patients on oral health practices and promoting long-term wellness. Increasingly, hygienists are also involved in broader healthcare efforts, identifying signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease that can manifest in the mouth.

Technological advancements are transforming the field, too! Digital tools like intraoral scanners and electronic health records are enhancing diagnostics and treatment planning, while specialized treatments like laser therapy for gum disease are becoming more common. Additionally, teledentistry enables hygienists to consult with patients remotely, expanding access to care.

Finally, sustainable practices are gaining importance, with many dental offices adopting eco-friendly products and waste-reduction strategies to support environmental health.

"The dental hygiene industry is always advancing with new technology and approaches to patient care. Lasers are becoming more common, and tailored home care plans now include innovative products and technology to better support individual needs. Hygienists are also trained to screen for systemic conditions, reinforcing the connection between oral health and overall wellness. In addition, smoking cessation and patient education are key focuses, emphasizing that oral health impacts the whole body, not just the mouth." Whitney DiFoggio, MA/RDH at Teeth Talk Girl

Những điều gì mọi người trong sự nghiệp này thích làm khi họ còn trẻ ...

Dental hygienists often share an early interest in science, particularly biology and health. They may have enjoyed hands-on activities, such as crafts or hobbies requiring fine motor skills. 

Describe a typical “Day in the Life” of a Dental Hygienist

"A typical “day in the life” of a dental hygienist is dynamic and ever-changing, largely depending on the variety of patients scheduled. No two days are ever the same, which keeps the work interesting and engaging. You might start the morning with a new patient coming in for a comprehensive exam, followed by routine cleanings, then perhaps a more involved appointment like scaling and root planing for a patient with periodontal disease. Later, you could see children for their cleanings, apply sealants to help protect their teeth, or take x-rays to monitor oral health or diagnose issues. This variety ensures that there’s never a dull moment in the day.

In a private practice, which is where I work, my day begins with setting up my room and making sure all my supplies are ready. Each appointment involves preparing for the patient, performing the cleaning or procedure, and cleaning up the room between patients. After each appointment, I take time to write progress notes and chart relevant information to ensure comprehensive records are maintained. This process repeats throughout the day, with a steady flow of patients who each bring unique needs and require different levels of care.

Working in a private practice differs significantly from working in a corporate office. Private practices may have a more personal touch, with familiar patients and a more close-knit team environment, while corporate offices might have a faster pace and standardized protocols across multiple locations. Regardless of the setting, each appointment as a dental hygienist offers an opportunity to connect with patients, educate them on proper dental care, and contribute to their overall health.

Also, oftentimes the day flies by! Between the variety of procedures, from routine cleanings to more complex treatments like scaling and root planings, there’s always something happening. The day’s pace, paired with the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference in people’s health and well-being, makes it a rewarding and fulfilling profession." - Whitney DiFoggio, MA/RDH at Teeth Talk Girl

Giáo dục và đào tạo cần thiết
  • An associate degree in dental hygiene is the most common entry-level qualification. The Commission on Dental Accreditation accredits hundreds of suitable programs around the country.
  • Các khóa học phổ biến bao gồm:
    • Anatomy and Physiology
    • Clinical Dental Hygiene
    • Dental Materials
    • Dental Radiography
    • Infection Control
    • Nutrition and Oral Health
    • Oral Pathology
    • Nha chu
  • Training programs include hands-on components in labs and clinical offices.
  • Students can also pursue a bachelor’s to qualify for more advanced positions.
  • In addition, licensure is required in all states. This involves passing the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) plus any additional state jurisprudence exams covering state-specific laws and regulations.
  1. The NBDHE is governed by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examination. It’s administered by the testing vendor Pearson VUE.
  2. The NBDHE features 350 multiple-choice questions in the following areas:

        🗸 Discipline-Based Component (200 items) covering:

       🗸 Scientific Basis for Dental Hygiene

       🗸 Provision of Clinical Dental Hygiene Services

       🗸 Community Health/Research Principles

       🗸 Case Based Items (150 items)

  • Depending on the state or region, other possibly required exams include:
  1. ADEX Dental Hygiene Examination
  2. CDCA-WREB-CITA
  3. Central Regional Dental Testing Service
  4. Southern Regional Testing Agency
  • After passing a board exam and any regional or state clinical exams, candidates can apply for state licensure to become a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH).
  • Many states mandate continuing education courses for RDH license renewal.
  • Employers may also require cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification.
NHỮNG ĐIỀU CẦN TÌM KIẾM Ở MỘT TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC
  • Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and featuring access to clinical opportunities, experienced faculty, and facilities with modern dental equipment.
  • So sánh chi phí học phí và lệ phí, lưu ý chi phí trong tiểu bang và ngoài tiểu bang.
  • Review scholarship and financial aid options.
  • Check out graduation and job placement statistics. 
Những điều cần làm ở trường trung học và đại học
  • In high school, take advanced courses in biology, chemistry, and math to prepare for college-level training programs.
  • Gain experience through volunteer work or internships in dental offices, if possible.
  • Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills by participating in group activities.
  • Apply for part-time jobs or internships where you can interact with customers and computer systems.
  • Read books and articles related to dental hygiene. Also, check out Teeth Talk Girl’s YouTube videos and career information page to learn more about the field!
  • Ask to do an informal interview with a working Dental Hygienist.
  • Keep track of work and academic accomplishments for your resume and/or college applications.
  • Attend career fairs and industry events to grow your network and learn about career paths.
  • Complete an accredited RDH program and study hard for the written and clinical exams. Some students attend programs like The Real RDH or StudentRDH to help them prepare for these rigorous exams.

"To prepare for a future in dental school or dental hygiene school, high school and college students can consider the following:

Shadowing a Dental Office: This is the most valuable experience to gain insight into the dental field. Spend a day observing a dentist, dental hygienist, and dental assistant in different offices to see the day-to-day tasks and determine what part of the field interests you most. This can also help confirm or adjust your career choice.

Connect with Guidance Counselors: High school students should talk to their guidance counselors for advice on classes to take and information on relevant programs in their area. Counselors can guide you toward courses that align with your goals in dentistry or dental hygiene.

Focus on Science Courses: Enroll in advanced science classes such as biology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, and even physics. These courses will build a strong foundation in the sciences, which is crucial for a career in dentistry.

Take Communication and Social Sciences: Classes in communication, speech, sociology, and psychology are valuable for developing skills to work with patients and the general public. These courses can enhance your ability to connect with and care for others, an essential part of any dental profession.

Business Courses: If you're considering owning your own practice in the future, business classes can be extremely helpful to prepare you for the management and administrative side of running a practice.

Research College Prerequisites: College students should check the admission requirements for the specific dental or dental hygiene schools they are interested in. While prerequisites are often similar across schools, some may have unique requirements, so it’s necessary to check each school admission’s website for a list of prerequisites prior to applying." - Whitney DiFoggio, MA/RDH at Teeth Talk Girl

Lộ trình điển hình
Dental Hygienist Roadmap
Làm thế nào để có được công việc đầu tiên của bạn
  • Before completing dental hygienist training, ask the school if they have connections with potential employers.
  • Reach out to your professional network to ask for tips about job openings.
  • Make a profile on LinkedIn and other networking platforms to advertise your availability.
  • Scan job portals like Indeed.com, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, and other sites.
  • Xem lại quảng cáo việc làm và tìm kiếm các từ khóa để liệt kê trong sơ yếu lý lịch của bạn, chẳng hạn như:
  1. Truyền thông
  2. CPR
  3. Dental cleaning
  4. Dentrix software
  5. Fluoride treatments
  6. Kiểm soát nhiễm khuẩn
  7. Kỹ năng giao tiếp
  8. Oral hygiene
  9. Chăm sóc bệnh nhân
  10. Patient education
  11. Lập kế hoạch
  12. X-ray
  • Check out Dental Hygienist resume templates for ideas.
  • Read sample interview questions such as “How do you teach patients about oral care?” or “How do you handle patients who are anxious?
  1. Practice your replies via mock interviews.
  • Ask former professors and supervisors to write recommendation letters or request their consent to list them as references.
  • Keep up with current developments related to the industry.
  • Know the terminology before going into interviews.
  • When you get called for an interview, research the employer to learn more about them.
  • Dress appropriately for job interviews
Làm thế nào để leo lên thang
  • Come in early to prepare for the day by reviewing patient notes and preparing rooms and equipment, as needed.
  • Always wear clean scrubs and look presentable.
  • Practice diligent sanitation procedures and ensure instruments are sterilized as appropriate.
  • Read equipment manuals and become a subject matter expert on the machines you use.
  • Keep supplies stocked and equipment well maintained.
  • Build a solid reputation with patients. Earn their trust and accolades!
  • Talk with your supervisor about additional certifications and specialized training you could complete to qualify for advancement.
  • Network with other dental professionals and seek mentorship.
  • Consider other positions within the office, such as office manager.
  • Anticipate problems and be proactive in preventing them. When a problem is unavoidable, offer feasible solutions and stay focused on end goals.
  • Grow your professional network by staying active in organizations like the American Dental Hygienists’ Association.
  • Cập nhật những thay đổi về quy định để đảm bảo tổ chức của bạn luôn tuân thủ.
  • Consider relocating or switching employers if necessary to achieve career goals.
Kế hoạch B

Dental Hygienists are important front-line members of the healthcare community, but there are plenty of other professions to consider if this career isn’t resonating with you. Check out our list below for some ideas!

  • Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse
  • Trợ lý y tế
  • Trợ lý trị liệu nghề nghiệp
  • Ophthalmic Medical Technician
  • Trợ lý vật lý trị liệu
  • Kỹ thuật viên X quang
  • Y tá đã đăng ký
  • Bác sĩ trị liệu hô hấp
  • Trợ lý phẫu thuật
  • Surgical Technologist
  • Kỹ thuật viên và Kỹ thuật viên thú y
Bất kỳ lời khuyên cuối cùng của lời khuyên?

"One last piece of advice: dental hygiene is a versatile career that truly has something for everyone, and it’s what you make of it! Whether you’re looking for full-time or part-time work, dental hygiene offers options that fit your lifestyle. Temping is also a fantastic choice, allowing you to create your own schedule and gain varied experiences in different offices. Beyond clinical work, there are rewarding non-clinical paths in education, research, business, and more. This flexibility to shape your career according to your goals and interests is one of the greatest aspects of the field." - Whitney DiFoggio, MA/RDH at Teeth Talk Girl

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