You will receive hands-on clinical instruction in the form of supervised patient care experiences. Innovative training methods include distance learning and institution-based, didactic coursework combined with community experience. Some universities offer four-year baccalaureate programs. Most associate degree programs take at least two years to complete. There are more than 300 accredited dental hygiene education programs in community colleges, technical colleges, dental schools and universities across the U.S. Online learning and flexible scheduling will benefit students with family responsibilities as well as those who are working while they learn.
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Opportunities for non-traditional students: If you’ve been out of school for a while but are seeking a career change, dental hygiene may be an excellent choice for you. With the emphasis on preventive care, dentists will need to employ more dental hygienists than ever before to meet the increased demand for dental services. Due to the success of preventive dentistry in reducing the incidence of oral disease, the expanding older population will retain their teeth longer, and will be even more aware of the importance of regular dental care. Security: Dental hygiene is projected to be one of the 30 fastest growing occupations in future years. Hygienists also have opportunities to work in a wide variety of settings, including private dental practices, educational and community institutions, research teams and large group practices. They may also provide oral health instruction in primary and secondary schools and other settings.Ĭreativity: Because dental hygienists interact with such diverse population groups, they must be creative in their approach to patient management and oral health education.įlexibility: Full-time and part-time employment options and the availability of evening and weekend hours enable dental hygienists to balance their career and lifestyle needs. Hygienists have opportunities to help special population groups such as children, the elderly and the disabled. Variety: Dental hygienists use a variety of interpersonal and clinical skills to meet the oral health needs of many different patients each day.
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Prestige: As a result of their education and clinical training in a highly skilled discipline, dental hygienists are respected as valued members of the oral health care team. Personal fulfillment comes from providing a valuable health care service while establishing trusting relationships with patients. Personal satisfaction: One of the most enjoyable aspects of a career in dental hygiene is working with people.