Dental hygiene is the science and practice of preventing diseases of the teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. A dental hygienist is a licensed professional who provides services to help children and adults maintain good oral health.
What dental hygienists do.
The dental hygienist cleans and polishes the teeth to help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. The hygienist also examines the mouth for signs of disease. The examination may include X rays of the teeth and jaws to locate dental decay or bone abnormalities. The hygienist may apply fluorides and plastic sealants to the teeth to help prevent cavities. The hygienist also may provide instruction to individuals and groups about the proper care of the mouth.
Education.
Accredited schools of dental hygiene require that applicants have at least a high school education. People who enter schools of dental hygiene may choose either of two kinds of programs. They may take a two-year course–which leads to a certificate, a diploma, or an associate degree–or a four-year course to earn a bachelor’s degree. Subjects studied include anatomy, chemistry, and microbiology. They also include such special subjects as dental anatomy, dental health education, and the clinical practice of dental hygiene skills. Alabama allows preceptor training of dental hygienists, an apprenticeship program under the supervision of a dentist.
All states require dental hygienists to have a license to practice. In every state except Alabama, applicants must pass both national board examinations and state or regional board examinations to get the license. People who complete a preceptorship are still required to complete a dental hygiene program at an accredited school if they wish to apply for a license in another state.
Career.
Most dental hygienists work with dentists in private dental offices. Others work in industrial and hospital clinics, do public health work in government and private health agencies, or teach in schools of dental hygiene. For information about a career in dental hygiene, write to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, 444 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.
