Dental hygienists provide treatments to prevent cavities and gum diseases. They perform these and other services as supervised or delegated by a licensed dentist. Examples of services:
- remove tartar and plaque from teeth
- apply topical medications and other treatments
- take diagnostic dental X-ray films
- polish teeth and apply cavity-preventing agents
- counsel patients about oral health and hygiene
- take medical histories and maintain dental records
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: $92,451 in NY
Salary range: $69,344 - $97,508
Projected growth: much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Private and group practice
Military
College and universities
Hospitals, nursing homes, and other health centers
Industry
Your Interests and Abilities
Preparation in the sciences
Analysis and reasoning
Hands-on experiences
Professional Skills
Concern for others
Attention to detail
Communication
Manual and technical dexterity
Education
High school diploma, or the equivalent, AND completion of a Department-registered dental hygiene licensure program, or a dental hygiene program accredited by the American Dental Association.
Examination
Written: National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, and
Clinical: The Commission on Dental Competency Assessments clinical dental hygiene examination.
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a dental hygienist about what they do and how they got started!
