The Ins And Outs Of A Career In Oral Health
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A dental hygienist, also known as oral hygienist is a qualified professional, concentrating on preventive dental health. This field in dental practice naturally focuses on the techniques of oral hygiene. Oral hygienists are commonly employed by licensed dentists. Some hygienists are lincensed to administer local anesthesia. A dental hygienist performsprophylaxis or tooth cleaning, tooth scaling and root planing for patients with periodontal disease, providing accurate oral care, and etc.
In different countries worldwide, becoming a dental hygienist requires various processes and qualifications. But for Australia and America, the requirements are almost the same. For example, in Aussie, a person may only become an eligible oral hygienist once he finishes a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene or any equivalent diploma from an accredited dental school. Dental hygienist schools in Australia must be accredited with the Australian Dental Council (ADC).
In the United States, the American Dental Associations (ADA) accredits dental hygienist schools where students can enroll and finish their bachelor’s degree or master’s degree on dental hygiene. Both Australia and America require hygienist to be licensed.
Aside from working in dental clinics, hygienists are hired by different dental hygienist schools. In fact, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projection of employment for hygienists will rise up to 36% by 2018. Because hygienists are licensed dental practitioners, they can put up their own business or give services in relation to their field of study; although with certain limitations in the execution of dental procedures. Another way is to run a clinic with a dentist.
The salary package for dental hygienists is among the top ranking rates in the US. This is because of the rising of demands for hygienists in the country. Again, according to the BLS, the annual salary of an oral hygienist is around $68, 000 with a median hourly rate at around $32.00. The lowest salary rate is around $45,000 per annum.
People who have interest in dental careers but could not pursue becoming a dentist can still study in a dental school and become an oral hygienist. On the other hand, individuals who want take up a course on dental hygiene but could not support the study financially, may apply for grants and scholarships. The internet offers wide information on grants and scholarships for this type of course.
To become a dental hygienist, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. You can take up courses from dental hygienist schools accredited by the Dental Association in your country. Being a hygienist will entitle you with a good salary package and an opportunity to help people in achieving oral health.