Dental story online

The field of dentistry is growing by leaps and bounds. This is primarily due to the fact that dental care, like other medical care fields, is currently seeing a rise in the number of patients accessing treatment. The dental hygienist plays a key role in providing this treatment. A hygienist can now expect a good salary, has flexible working hours and is able to access numerous benefits. So what does a dental hygienist do and what kind of training do they need?

Anyone, regardless of race, gender or ethnic background can become a dental hygienist. The education required includes a high school diploma, followed by at least two years of college education that blends clinical instruction and classroom studies. A dental hygienist can work in a number of environments, including dental offices, orthodontic offices, county health departments, and school districts.

A dental hygienist provides true hands-on care for both adults and children as patients, and is one of the most important members of a dental office team. He or she can educate, while providing certain levels of dental care to patients. It is often the hygienist’s role to show patients how to properly care for teeth and gums, and to explain approved methods of brushing and flossing along with other dental care procedures that are performed in the home.

A dental hygienist works closely with a dentist to provide oral care for patients. She or he is trained to take and develop x-rays and clean teeth, removing dental plaque buildup from teeth. A dental hygienist can also apply either sealants or fluoride treatments to patients' teeth as well as instruct patients on the proper diet and nutrition for optimum dental care. A dental hygienist is also trained to make cast models of patients' teeth for preparation for other procedures, including application of braces, fittings for dental bridges and dentures. Often, the hygienist is the first and last person a patient sees when visiting a dentist. He or she will take a medical or dental history if needed, answer questions and make sure the dentist is aware of why the patient is sitting the in dentist's chair.

A career as a dental hygienist offers variety amid the routine of each day. Each new patient offers an opportunity to provide service. Hygienists can gain personal satisfaction while working closely with people of all ages and walks of life, and can rest assured that their service is a necessary and valuable one.

Today, there is a great demand for dental hygienists, as can be seen in the employment opportunities section of any newspaper. The position offers great benefits, including job security, insurance and vacation time. If you like to work with people, want the security of a stable position, and enjoy a variety of experiences, perhaps a career as a dental hygienist would be a good choice for you.