Are you a dental assistant?

Did you know that there are numerous possibilities to further your education and develop your career in the dental industry? 

Have you considered becoming a dental hygienist to hone your talents, take on more challenging duties, and increase your earning potential? 

This article discusses the distinctions between these two roles and how to transition from dental assistant to dental hygienist.

Let's get started . . . 

What is a Dental Assistant?

Dentists and dental hygienists collaborate with dental assistants to treat patients more quickly. They are often in charge of the following:

• Getting ready for cleanings, tests, and procedures
• Getting ready for cleanings, tests, and procedures
• Assisting dentists with operations by providing them with instruments and keeping an eye on the patient
• Arranging appointments and updating patient records, among other office management and administrative tasks, as necessary

What is a Dental Hygienist?

A dental hygienist serves patients without the guidance of a dentist and is accountable for the following:

• Utilizing specialized tools to eliminate plaque accumulation while cleaning patients' teeth
• Examining patients for oral and gum problems
• Discussing the best course of action for specific conditions with the dentist
• Teaching people how to care for their teeth by brushing and flossing properly
• Using local anesthetics to reduce pain and sensitivity when performing cleanings
• Obtaining and evaluating X-rays
• Arranging for follow-up cleanings for patients

Dental Hygienists Vs. Assistants

Although these two professions work together and possibly have some similar responsibilities, there are many variations and differences  between the two dental professions, including the following:

Education

Some states demand that prospective dental assistants undergo a professional certification or diploma program, which may take nine months to a year to finish. Obtaining an associate's degree in dental assisting can be an additional choice. Both programs offer coursework in human biology, dental science, and dental procedures, as well as practical training. At the program's conclusion, students participate in a practicum under the guidance of working assistants, hygienists, and dentists.

An accredited dental hygiene program at a community or technical college, a vocational school, or a university is a requirement for dental hygienists. The most common of these programs is a two-year associate degree. However, aspirants to become hygienists can also complete a four-year bachelor's degree, a two-year master's degree, or an expedited certificate program.

Students take biology, chemistry, and dental science courses in every dental hygiene program. Additionally, they perform dental cleanings, exams, X-rays, and other job-related duties in the classroom to get practical experience. They must also complete clinicals, and carry out cleanings and other responsibilities while being observed by working dental hygienists and dentists.

Training

Hygienists and assistants receive hands-on training while finishing their degree or certificate programs. While completing clinicals and performing entry-level tasks, they also receive extra training in their general responsibilities.

For instance, a dental assistant in their first role might be trained on the office software, the preferences of the dentists and hygienists, and the particular requirements of the patients they work with. In addition to receiving training on cutting-edge tools and intricate cleaning techniques for dental cases they haven't, dental hygienists also receive software training. Some dental hygienists may also begin their careers as dental assistants, where they can gain office experience.

Certification & Licensure

The Certified Dental Assistant test is for dental assistants who want to pursue national certification. Before taking this exam, aspiring assistants must have either completed a recognized certification program or have at least two years of experience working as a qualified dental assistant.

On the other hand, dental hygienists must obtain a license in the state where they wish to work. They're required to complete an accredited education program, pass clinical exams and pass the state-proctored exam in addition to the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). After acquiring a license, they must also take continuing education courses to renew their qualification.

Salary

Dental hygienists make $78,566 annually, while dental assistants earn $59,790. The earning potential for both positions might change depending on factors like employer size, geographical location, educational attainment, years of experience, and necessary certifications.

Skills and Similarities Between Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists 

The following skills are required of dental hygienists and assistants alike:

• Communication: Speaking effectively to patients and coworkers while attentively listening to demands from dentists or inquiries from patients are all aspects of communication that these dental professionals must master.
• Collaboration: Because dental assistants and hygienists work closely together and with dentists, they must be exceptional team players if they are to solve issues, treat patients thoroughly, and complete each task quickly and efficiently.
• Organization: It is the responsibility of these professionals to maintain a tidy, organized workspace and proper patient file storage.
• Computer literacy: Both professionals have a working knowledge of computers and a variety of applications, which they use to plan patient appointments, examine and update dental records, and confirm patients' insurance coverage.
• Customer service: Dental hygienists utilize this talent to respond efficiently to inquiries regarding dental procedures. Dental assistants use it when scheduling appointments and updating insurance information with patients in person and over the phone.
• Attention to detail: Hygienists pay close attention to detail when documenting changes in dental and gum health, cleaning patients' teeth, and examining X-rays and teeth to identify anomalies or treatment-required areas. Dental assistants must also pay attention to detail when completing their duties and assisting a dentist or hygienist. 
• Time management: Since dental assistants and hygienists frequently have back-to-back patient encounters, they also need to manage their time effectively. To guarantee that patients are seen as soon as possible, they must finish the examination, cleaning, X-rays, educational consultation, and other responsibilities within the allocated time.
• Empathy: Dental hygienists and assistants use empathy to determine whether their patients are comfortable throughout a procedure.  

How to Transition from Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist

Here are the steps you should follow if you want to advance in your dentistry career and go from a dental assistant to a dental hygienist:

1. Acquire Admission to a Program for Dental Hygiene

Admission may be competitive depending on the school and the kind of program. Prepare your CV with your experience as a dental assistant to demonstrate your familiarity with the professional setting, terminology, equipment, patient interactions, and processes. Take any necessary classes in biology, chemistry, or general education in writing, humanities, or social science. Because most programs are intended for full-time study, you may need to talk with your present employer about how to balance work and class schedules.

2. Refine your Skills During Practical Lessons

You must finish practical lessons in your hygiene program that require using dental cleaning equipment and performing cleaning techniques on dental manikins and classmates. Use straightforward communication when instructing your test patient during a process, and pay close attention to any indications of pain or discomfort. Keep an eye out for nonverbal cues like stiffness or flinching, and check in with your test patient afterward to discuss any strategies you might tweak. Also, provide honest feedback to your classmates to help you learn what does and doesn't work during a procedure.

3. Pass Clinical Exams and Training

You may be able to complete your clinicals at the dental practice where you already work, or your school might assign you to an office. Ask for clarification or assistance when necessary and pay close attention to the patient's comfort throughout treatments. Use the communication, observation, and customer service skills you did throughout your classroom training and current position. Near the end of or after your training program is complete, complete your clinical exams, which assess your ability to identify dental or oral anomalies, take accurate measurements, assess radiography, and diagnose dental disease and conditions.

4. Obtain a License

You must then take and pass your state's dental hygiene licensure exam and the NBDHE to earn your license. The NBDHE assesses your ability to recall and apply dental hygiene science knowledge, patient care techniques, radiography testing, and review practices. The state licensing exam will test your understanding of best practices, patient care, provider responsibility, and ethics.

5. Requesting an Internship with your Current Employer

Inquire with your current company about the possibility of promotion to a hygienist position or even to the position of an intern hygienist, which might provide you with more training.

6. Apply for jobs as a Dental Hygienist

If your workplace isn't recruiting a hygienist, seek other practices that could use your new skills along with your dental hygienist education and training, including your dental assistant education, training, and experience on your resume. 

And remember, Princes Dental Staffing is always here to help you find your dream dental hygienist position or other dental position when you are ready! 

 

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