Dental Hygienist Schools and Programs

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

You've probably been to a dental hygienist at some point in your life, if you haven't, go now, before your teeth fall out! In fact, doctors report a strong link between dental hygiene and overall health. That makes the role of dental hygienists extremely important. Dental hygienists perform the following duties:

Clean teeth by removing plaque and tartar
Examine patients
Sometimes, take x-rays to search for cavities or other problems

If they find disease or any other abnormality, they record it for further examination by a dentist. Some States also allow dental hygienists to perform these tasks:

Administer anesthetics to patients
Remove sutures
Place and fit filling materials

Career Outlook for Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists enjoy one of the fastest growing occupations in the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects the number of dental hygienist jobs will grow 36% from 2008-2018. As the health care and dental industries change to meet the needs of a growing (and older) population, dental hygienists now perform some tasks traditionally performed by dentists.

Potential Salary for a Dental Hygienist

You can experience excellent earning potential working in dental hygiene. The average dental hygienist earns $67,860 annually. The middle 50% of dental hygienists earn $55,620 to $79,990 a year, and the top 10% earn more than $92,860 annually.

Required Degree to Become a Registered Dental Hygienist

Most dental hygienist programs culminate with an associate's degree, although some programs grant a certificate instead. You must complete an accredited dental hygiene program to work in a private dental practice. To work in clinical practice at a public or school health program, conduct research, or teach, you usually need a bachelor's or master's degree.

Nursing and Health Care Schools

Argosy University

To succeed in today's competitive workforce, you need a solid foundation of knowledge - and the power to put it to work. And that's exactly what an Argosy University education offers.

Programs Offered:

Associate of Science (AS) in Dental Hygiene

Argosy University Twin Cities

To succeed in today's competitive workforce, you need a solid foundation of knowledge - and the power to put it to work. And that's exactly what an Argosy University education offers.

Programs Offered:

Associate of Science (AS) in Dental Hygiene

Remington College

You can enhance your career potential quickly with Remington College. As a student, you will have access to a team of career placement professionals who will help you market your expanded skill set to potential employers. Attend one of 20 conveniently located campuses and learn from dedicated instructors who have a wealth of real-world experience. Enjoy small classes focused on your individual needs.

Programs Offered:

AAS in Dental Hygiene

Missouri College

Earn a college degree that really means something at Missouri College.

Programs Offered:

Dental Hygiene

Remington College - Nashville

Programs Offered:

AAS in Dental Hygiene

Sanford-Brown Institute - Orlando

Turn your love of medicine into a rewarding career at Sanford-Brown Institute. Learn more today.

Programs Offered:

Dental Hygiene

Lincoln College of New England

Programs Offered:

Dental Hygiene

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Strayer University

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Washington, DC 20005

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1550 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209

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