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photo by steed media
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One of the most important
attributes on your face is your teeth. More specifically, your smile is one of
the most important forms of communication, verbal or nonverbal, that often
affect your overal interaction between you and others. People eagerly spend
thousands of dollars and endure countless cumbersome procedures to perfect that
smile, which is why the dental profession is always in
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high-demand. One popular
dental profession is that of a hygienist. Dental hygienists are oral health
professional who treat and prevent oral diseases and educate patients on proper
hygiene. Hygienists clean patient’s teeth, remove potentially harmful stains,
plaque, bacteria, as well as hard and soft deposits. They also apply
cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides. In addition to those duties, they
also take and develop dental X-rays. In some states, hygienists oversee
anesthetics, carve filling materials, and place temporary fillings. Still not
convinced that this career might be for you? Here are some great reasons to
consider dental hygiene as a career.
Ample opportunity for employment and
growth – According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), by 2014, the demand
for dental hygienists will grow exponentially. With dentists’ increased
workloads, more hygienists will be needed to perform dental care, such as
cleaning, freeing the dentist to devote time to more profitable procedures.
Great compensation – The average pay for a dental hygienist, according to BLS,
is $28.05 an hour.
Less daunting educational requirements – Most medical
occupations mandate at least eight years of education. You can become a dental
hygienist with as little as an associate’s degree. You must then pass both a
written and clinical examination. The American Dental Association’s Joint
Commission on National Dental Examinations administers the written examination,
which is accepted by all states and the District of Columbia.
Versatile
profession – Dental hygienists may obtain further training and become involved
in research, teaching, or the administration of dental hygiene educational
programs.
Cosmetic dentistry is popular – Repairing chipped and rotten
teeth and closing gaps are some of the most commonly performed cosmetic
procedures. People are also getting their teeth whitened and avoiding
unattractive silver for cavities. There is also a need to for proficiency in
applying veneers, gold and even platinum grills. – adrienne gadling and terry shropshire
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