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Are you looking for a viable career path?

Have you considered a career in dental hygiene? 

Wondering reasons why dental hygiene would be a good career choice for you? 

Don't worry, we have you covered in today's article on eleven reasons to consider a career in dental hygiene. 

But first, what do dental hygienists do? Let's Find out. . . 

What Do Dental Hygienists Do?

Dental hygienists have the most one-on-one engagement with patients compared to dental assistants and dentists. They provide a wide range of preventative dental care in their daily work, including:

• Keeping dentists informed about potential problems and areas of concern
• Using fluoride and sealants to protect teeth
• Removing stains, tartar, and plaque from teeth
• Examining patients for oral diseases or abnormalities
• Taking and developing oral X-rays
• Educating patients on proper oral hygiene and care

Up next, eleven reasons to consider a career as a dental hygienist. . . 

11 Reasons To Consider a Career as a Dental Hygienist 

Dental hygienists have stable careers, with the set but flexible hours, opportunities for growth, and above-average wages.

 In addition, compared to other professions, the training for this one is shorter. The timeframe it can take to complete dental hygiene programs varies from two months to two years. If you are choosing to get a bachelor's degree in hygiene, it may take you four years. 

 In no time, you may be working in your dream job!

 If you're still undecided, we've listed a few of the many reasons why you should choose this career path. Understanding why dental hygienists enjoy a demanding and fulfilling job at a dental practice might help you decide if this is the correct career choice for you.

Here are some of the advantages and reasons to consider becoming a dental hygienist:

1. Enjoy a Flexible Work Schedule

As a dental hygienist, you can likely find any work schedule you desire. Dental hygienists can work full-time or part-time, and many only work a few days per week. You may also work in a floating position, where you rotate between several workplaces during the week. In this career, you may typically tailor your schedule to match your personal needs and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

2. Partnerships for Patient Health

Working as a dental hygienist helps you form bonds with patients who visit the office regularly. Hygienists give one-on-one care, build trust, and impact patient perceptions of oral health and professionals. A hygienist can maintain trust and even build connections with patients by demonstrating empathy and listening to patients as they undergo dental hygiene procedures.

3. Earn a Competitive Salary

How much do dental hygienists make? This question is one of the most common questions about any career you're considering. Fortunately for you, dental hygienists typically earn more than health technologists and technicians. Dental hygienists earn an average annual pay of $79,272, with hourly rates varying depending on location and experience. The national median provides you a good indication of the competitive pay dental hygienists may earn. Your actual compensation will depend on factors like where you live and how much experience you have.

4. Discover Advancement Opportunities in the Dental Field

You can work as a dental hygienist after acquiring an associate degree or a certificate in dental hygiene. You can, however, continue your education with a bachelor's or master's degree in your field after gaining experience on the job. Advanced degrees also allow you to progress into roles of leadership and educational positions in the hygienist field. Some dentists begin their careers as dental hygienists, getting experience in dental practices and patient care before enrolling in dentistry school. As a dental hygienist, you can also gain extra credentials, adding value to your resume for current and future employers.

5. Ability to Help Others Improve Their Health

The value of oral hygiene goes far beyond a nice smile. A hygienist has the opportunity to teach patients about good oral health habits, such as how to properly care for their teeth and gums. They play an important role in assisting patients in not only feeling better about their smiles and oral health but also living healthier lifestyles.

6. Job Stability 

While the world around us is always changing, the reality remains that individuals worldwide require adequate dental care. Dental offices will almost certainly require dental hygienists no matter where you go. A dental hygienist is and always will be a key dental care provider. Furthermore, as people live longer, there is a larger pool of patients to treat.

7. Every Day is Different

Every day, dental hygienists see a large number of patients. Even if you're doing the same job, each patient will have different needs, issues, and challenges. Every patient will require unique interactions, oral care, and dental health education, so you must alter your communication style and approaches accordingly. There are no two days, and you never know what the day ahead will bring!

8. Social Work Environment.

Regularly, hygienists engage with patients, office staff, and other dental professionals. Working as a dental hygienist allows frequently interacting with others, which is ideal for those who want to use their social skills to influence clients and coworkers. Hygienists must have a pleasant personality to overcome patient fears and maintain a calm demeanor throughout the day while attending to clients' needs.

9. Accelerated Education Options

Becoming a dentist requires years of training and multiple degrees, but a dental hygienist typically only needs an associate's degree. Many dental hygienist associate programs take less than two years to finish. Hygienists take a certification exam after training to become fully licensed professionals.

10. Do Hands-On Work

Many jobs require employees to sit at a desk, staring at a computer screen all day. Dental hygienists are an exception. You'll always be up and moving around the office in this job, connecting with coworkers and patients. You can enjoy the satisfaction of using your hands and your mind as a dental hygienist.

11. Possibility of Working in the Medical Field

A job as a dental hygienist provides those wanting a healthcare career the opportunity to work with patients as a medical professional. Hygienists utilize their technical skills and medical knowledge to improve the health of their patients. As a dental hygienist, you can quickly train and begin working with patients daily if you desire to work in the medical field.

Bottom line: 

Your career has a big impact on your future. It will shape your identity, personal fulfillment, lifestyle, income, family, and retirement. Therefore, choosing a competitive career path isn't to be taken lightly. Rest assured that there are plenty of opportunities out there waiting for you in the field of dental hygiene!

 

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