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CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration

CAREER PROFILE

Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists help people keep their teeth and gums healthy by cleaning teeth, checking for signs of trouble, and teaching patients how to care for their mouths at home. They often work closely with dentists, take X-rays, and may help with other basic dental procedures. If you enjoy science, working with people, and paying attention to detail, this career can be a great fit.

EDUCATION ROUTEMultiple pathways
WORK STYLEVaries by role
CAREER FIELDHealth Science

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

Pathway details are still being reviewed by an editor.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy duties

  • Conduct an initial dental assessment and consult with dentists on patient care
  • Take dental impressions
  • Instruct patients regarding oral hygiene procedures
  • Clean and stimulate the gums to prevent gum disease
  • Remove stains and deposits from teeth to prevent tooth and root decay
  • Apply fluoride treatment
  • Take and develop X-rays
  • May perform restorative and orthodontic procedures under the direction of a dentist
  • May supervise dental assistants in their health care functions.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career

Business ProceduresInterpersonal skillsMultidisciplinary teamwork

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