Looking for a career that’s professionally fulfilling and financially lucrative? Dental hygienists are oral health professionals who provide preventative care for patients in dentist offices throughout the country.
According to U.S. News and World Report, this profession is ranked #3 among Best Health Care Support Jobs and #32 among Best Jobs Overall. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for dental hygienists is booming. It’s a great time to get the education and training required to enter this great profession.
What Do Dental Hygienists Do?
Hygienists mostly work alongside dentists in their private offices, but they are increasingly becoming part of comprehensive health care services in hospitals and other provider systems. In dental offices, hygienists usually see the patient first and clean their teeth, removing plaque, stains and tartar by brushing, flossing and scraping. Depending on the practice, hygienists may also be responsible for:
- Exposing and processing dental x-rays
- Fluoride and sealant application
- Athletic mouth guard fabrication
- Oral cavity examinations
- Counseling for proper oral health
Performing these duties requires focus, great hand-eye coordination, critical thinking skills and extensive knowledge of the teeth and gums. Hygienists need to also have effective communication abilities as making patients feel comfortable is a crucial part of the job. A high level of professionalism and ethics is expected for anyone entering the field of dental hygienics.
Starting a Career as a Dental Hygienist
Eastern International College offers both an AAS degree and a Bachelor’s Completion program at the Jersey City campus with specialized coursework and training in dental hygiene. You’ll develop a solid foundation in human biology while practicing a wide range of dental skills in our labs. Each course will build on previous knowledge and skills until you are prepared to take the necessary steps to become registered in the State of New Jersey as a dental hygienist.
While the AAS degree from Eastern International College provides the education and training you need to become registered as a dental hygienist, even more professional opportunities are available for students who enter our Bachelor’s Completion program. This degree could lead to positions as a allied health educator or public health manager. Learn more about our dental hygiene programs by browsing our website or contacting our admissions department.