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THE JOB
DENTAL HYGIENISTS are part of the dental care team which includes dentists,
dental assistants and dental technicians working together to prevent and
control gum disease and the development of tooth decay.
Dental Hygienists clean and polish teeth using scaling instruments and a
rotating polisher. They apply decay preventive agents such as fluorides and
sealants, chart medical and dental histories and take and develop dental
X-ray films. They also gather all of the patient data and information for
the dentist and teach patients good oral hygiene practices.
Hygienists do not diagnose problems, but over time they have acquired more
responsibility. They can administer anesthesia for pain control and prepare
clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests for interpretation by dentists. On
occasion they may work with dentists in the capacity of dental assistant.
They are increasingly involved in periodontal therapies including root
planing, micro-ultrasonics and soft tissue curettage.
Dental Hygienists who are employed in public health such as Indian Health
Services (in the federal Health and Human Services Department) or in
community health programs help dentists assess dental care needs and plan
appropriate dental health programs. This includes supervising field
training for dental hygiene students. They also provide clinical services,
especially for children.
Dental Hygienists who work in hospitals, clinics and nursing and
convalescent homes assist dentists with oral health problems of the
patients. At colleges and universities, they engage in Research in the
field, teach dental hygiene programs and may be employed as faculty members
in dental schools.
New legislation that would allow hygienists to work independently is
currently pending. Sponsored by the California Dental Hygienists
Association (CDHA), the bill, if enacted, allows hygienists to set up their
own practice or work in a group practice.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Dental Hygienists work in pleasant modern, well-lighted, heated, and
ventilated surroundings that usually have the latest dental equipment.
While most of the time Dental Hygienists work sitting down, they can still
develop back and neck pain. Repetitive hand and wrist movements used in
their work may cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Other hazards include exposure to infectious diseases and possible overdose
of radiation from X-rays. Risks are minimized by using such safety gear as
masks, safety glasses and special aprons. Important health protection in
this occupation includes regular checkups and strict adherence to safety
procedures for the use of X-ray equipment.
The work requires good vision (may be corrected) and finger dexterity for
close attention to detail and handling of sharp instruments. Constant work
with other dental team members in a confined space is common.
Licensed Dental Hygienists are eligible to join the American Dental
Hygienists' Association and California Dental Hygienists' Association.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
The following information is from the California Projections of Employment
published by the Labor Market Information Division.
Estimated number of workers in 1993 16,590
Estimated number of workers in 2005 24,240
Projected Growth 1993-2005 46%
Estimated openings due to separations by 2005 4,650
(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)
The employment outlook for Dental Hygienists remains good. Newly created
jobs will account for most job opportunities, but a sizable number will also
occur as workers die, retire or change careers.
A number of factors contribute to such growth: heightened awareness of the
importance of regular dental care, more people with dental insurance
coverage, and an aging population with extended dental care needs.
Other factors which will result in new jobs for hygienists include a greater
emphasis on community and public health, advances in dental hygiene
education, increased specialty areas and new dental health counseling
programs. New opportunities are also arising in Public Health Programs
sponsored by schools and federal, State, and local Health Departments.
WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS
Earnings can vary widely between areas. Education and work experience often
determine salary levels. The average range for entry Dental Hygienists is
$60 to $280 for an eight-hour day. Experienced hygienists earn an average
pay range of $100 to $330 for eight hours. Hygienists who have worked at
least three years for the same employer often earn the top wages. According
the California Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), salaries range between
$180 and $375 a day, with temporary employment agencies paying $30 to $40
hourly.
Dental Hygienists employed by the State of California earn $2,664 - $3,200 a
month; Dental Hygienists Auditors and Consultants earn $3,200 - $3,859
monthly.
Fringe benefits usually include medical insurance, paid vacation and sick
leave - especially for full time employees. Many employers provide
retirement plans and discounts on dental work.
Most Dental Hygienists work part time - eight hours a day, usually two or
three days a week. They often work for more than one dentist.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING
Dental Hygienists must be licensed in California, under the provisions of
the Dental Practice Act, administered by the State Board of Dental
Examiners. Applicants for licensing must have a minimum of a two-year
degree from an accredited (American Dental Association) dental hygiene
program. Dental Hygienists must also pass the National Board examination
given by the Joint Commission on Dental Examinations and the practical
examination given by the State Board. The license must be renewed every two
years; 25 hours of continuing education is required.
Contact the CDHA for a list of the schools in California. Required
background varies and may include courses in math, biology, and chemistry.
The schools combine classroom instruction with clinical and laboratory work
and include such courses as pharmacology, nutrition, anatomy, and physiology.
There are more applicants than available training slots. Students often
take college-level courses in general education and science for up to two
years to improve their chances of acceptance into a dental hygiene program.
Personal traits essential to the job are good judgment, patience, tact,
ability to tolerate stress, and a genuine concern for people.
Dental Hygienists should be able to deal tactfully with people and stimulate
interest and motivation to all age groups in the prevention of dental
disease. They must pay close attention to detail and be able to follow
instructions exactly.
ADVANCEMENT
Dental Hygienists advance primarily in expanded roles and greater
responsibilities. With additional education and experience, they may
specialize in areas such orthodontia. Some go into teaching. In government
jobs, they may advance to Dental Hygienist Auditor or Consultant.
FINDING THE JOB
Employers recruit through newspaper ads, employee referrals, and schools.
Job Seekers should also apply directly with dentists, the California
Employment Development Department Job Service, and government agencies such
as the California Department of Corrections. Telephone yellow pages list
private employment agencies that specialize in placing medial and dental
personnel in both temporary and permanent jobs.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION
California Dental Hygienists Association
660 J Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 442-4531
http://www.cdha.org
American Dental Hygienists Association
444 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 3400
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 440-8900
http://www.adha.org
California Department of Consumer Affairs
Committee on Dental Auxiliaries
1428 Howe Ave. Suite 58
Sacramento CA 95825
(916) 263-2595
http://www.dca.ca.gov
RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES
Dental Assistants No. 27
Dental Laboratory Technicians No. 243
Dentists No. 377
OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed., 1991)
Dental Hygienist (medical service) 078.361-010
OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System
Dental Hygienists 329080
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162.
Note: This is NOT a job opening. The purpose of This California Occupational Guide
is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions.
If you are searching for a job, go to:
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