What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
A dental hygienist is a licensed oral healthcare professional who plays a vital role in preventive dentistry. While dentists are responsible for diagnosis and complex treatments, hygienists focus on cleaning teeth, assessing oral health, and educating patients on proper home care. Their work not only improves smiles but also helps prevent serious conditions such as gum disease and tooth decay.
The Role of a Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists typically work in dental offices under the supervision of a licensed dentist, but they carry out many of their duties independently. Unlike dental assistants, who often work directly alongside the dentist during procedures, hygienists usually see patients one-on-one. Their primary responsibility is to clean teeth by removing plaque, tartar, and stains. They also polish teeth, apply preventive treatments such as fluoride, and may take X-rays for the dentist to review.
In addition to cleanings, hygienists perform screenings to identify signs of gum disease, oral infections, or abnormalities that may require further evaluation. They carefully record patients’ oral health history and communicate findings to the dentist. Perhaps just as importantly, they serve as educators, teaching patients effective brushing and flossing techniques to maintain their oral health between visits.
Expanded Duties
In some states, dental hygienists are permitted to take on additional responsibilities depending on local regulations. These may include administering local anesthesia, placing temporary fillings, smoothing restorative materials, or even removing sutures after procedures. The scope of practice varies, but in every case, hygienists are highly trained to carry out the tasks within their legal limits.
Education and Licensing
To become a dental hygienist in the United States, candidates must complete a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. These programs are offered at community colleges, universities, and technical schools. The most common path is an associate degree, which typically requires about two years of full-time study. Coursework often includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and clinical training.
After completing their education, aspiring hygienists must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, a rigorous written test covering both scientific knowledge and case-based scenarios. Most states also require a regional or state-specific clinical examination, during which candidates demonstrate their skills on a live patient. Only after meeting these requirements can they apply for state licensure and begin practicing as registered dental hygienists.
Salary and Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that dental hygienists earned an average annual salary of $77,230 in 2019, with wages varying by state and level of experience. Alaska, California, and Washington are among the top-paying states for this profession. Employment growth is expected to be strong, with the BLS projecting a 6% increase between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than average for many other careers.
The Value of Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are often the first line of defense in identifying oral health problems. Their work not only helps patients enjoy cleaner, healthier smiles but also plays an important role in detecting early warning signs of disease. For anyone interested in a career that blends healthcare, education, and patient care, becoming a dental hygienist can be a rewarding path.