Becoming a Dental Hygienist
What is a Dental Hygienist?
A dental hygienist is a vital member of the dental care team. They specialise in preventive oral health care and are responsible for evaluating, diagnosing, and treating certain conditions of the teeth and gums.
They have diverse roles within a dental practice, such as performing preventive services like cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and providing patient education. They also work in collaboration with the dentist to provide specialised care like periodontal treatments, administering local anesthesia, and placing sealants or restorations.
Dental hygienists must have a great deal of knowledge in oral health science, as well as excellent communication skills for educating patients about proper oral hygiene techniques. Many dental hygienists also become certified or licensed in their state, which requires a series of training and education.
With the right credentials, dental hygienists can pursue various career paths, from managing a dental office to teaching at a college or university or becoming a part of the dental expert South Morang team.
So how can you become a dental hygienist?
Becoming a Dental Hygienist
1. A High School Diploma or Equivalent
This is required in some states of Australia as an additional degree in dental hygiene. This credential is often necessary for those who want to pursue a career in the field of dental hygiene. A high school diploma or equivalent will provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for success in this profession.
2. Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene
This is a four-year degree that prepares students to become qualified dental hygiene practitioners. With this degree, individuals will be able to practice in public and private dental offices as well as universities and research centres. Courses taken include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, clinical techniques and supervision of dental hygiene services.
3. Licensure Exam for Dental Hygienists
In order to work as a dental hygienist in Australia, you must pass the licensure exam administered by the Australian Dental Association. This exam is designed to assess your knowledge and skills in the field of dental hygiene. After passing this examination, you will be able to practice as a licensed dental hygienist in Australia.
4. Hands-on Clinical Experience
While pursuing a degree in dental hygiene, students will be required to complete hands-on clinical experience. This experience consists of supervised patient care in a laboratory or clinic setting. Through this clinical experience, students will gain the practical skills needed to provide high-quality patient care and services.
5. Professional Certification
After graduating from a dental hygiene program, dental hygienists may opt to pursue professional certification. The Australian Dental Association offers several levels of certification, including the Certificate in Dental Hygiene (CDH) and the Diploma in Dental Hygiene (DDH). Completing either of these programs will demonstrate a mastery of dental hygiene knowledge and skills and will open up career opportunities in the field.
6. Continuing Education Requirements
Once certified as a dental hygienist, individuals must participate in continuing education courses to maintain their licensure and certification. These courses are designed to help dental hygienists stay updated on the latest advancements and techniques in dental hygiene so they can provide the best care for their patients.
7. Professional Licensure Renewal
All dental hygienists must also renew their professional licensure every few years to maintain their ability to practice in Australia. This renewal process requires completing a certain number of continuing education or training hours and passing a board exam or competency review.
8. Job Opportunities
Once certified, dental hygienists may find job opportunities in public and private dental offices, research clinics, universities and other healthcare settings. With the right education and experience, they may also become instructors or supervisors in a dental school or hospital setting. Additionally, experienced hygienists may choose to specialise in a particular area of dental hygiene, such as pediatric or geriatric care.
9. Advancement Opportunities
With experience and additional education, dental hygienists may move into more advanced roles. These include positions such as clinical directors, educators and researchers. Dental hygienists with experience may also advance to administrative roles, such as office managers or practice owners.
10. Salary and Benefits
The salary of a dental hygienist varies depending on experience, education and location. In Australia, the average yearly salary for a dental hygienist is AU$ 75,000 per year. Additionally, many employers provide benefits such as health insurance, paid time off and professional development support.
These factors make dental hygiene an attractive career option for many people. With the right education, certifications and experience, individuals can enjoy a rewarding career in this field and make a positive impact on their patients’ lives.
The career of a dental hygienist presents many opportunities for growth and advancement. With the proper education, experience and certification, individuals can have successful careers in dental hygiene. As more people become aware of the importance of good oral hygiene, the demand for qualified professionals in this field is expected to rise.
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