2 answers
Zoey
Student
Granite City, Illinois
1
Question
Updated
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help me learn to be better ?
what is the best education i can get to be a dental hygienists i love working on teeth i started biology and now i don’t know where to go can i get some help?
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2 answers
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Certainly, I can provide guidance on how to become a dental hygienist and pursue a fulfilling career in oral healthcare.
**1. Complete High School:**
- Ensure you have a high school diploma or equivalent to start your educational journey.
**2. Prerequisite Courses:**
- Take high school courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Strong foundational knowledge in these subjects is valuable for dental hygiene education.
**3. Research Dental Hygiene Programs:**
- Look for accredited dental hygiene programs at colleges or universities in your area or in locations you're willing to relocate to.
**4. Associate's or Bachelor's Degree:**
- Dental hygiene programs typically offer either an Associate's Degree or a Bachelor's Degree. Both are valid pathways, but a Bachelor's Degree can provide more opportunities for career advancement.
**5. Admission Requirements:**
- Review the admission requirements for the dental hygiene program you're interested in. These may include prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA, and standardized test scores.
**6. Apply to Dental Hygiene School:**
- Submit your application to the dental hygiene program of your choice. Make sure to meet application deadlines and provide all required documentation.
**7. Complete Dental Hygiene Program:**
- Successfully complete the dental hygiene program, which typically takes two to four years, depending on the degree level.
**8. Clinical Experience:**
- Gain hands-on clinical experience as part of your program. This is where you'll learn to work on teeth and perform dental procedures under supervision.
**9. Licensing Exam:**
- After graduation, you'll need to pass a licensing examination, which usually consists of a written and clinical component. Requirements vary by state, so be sure to research the specific licensing requirements in your state.
**10. Obtain State Licensure:**
- Once you pass the licensing exam, apply for licensure in your state to become a registered dental hygienist.
**11. Stay Informed:**
- Dental hygiene is a dynamic field, and it's essential to stay updated on the latest research, techniques, and technologies in oral healthcare.
**12. Consider Further Education:**
- Some dental hygienists choose to pursue advanced degrees or certifications in specialties like periodontology or public health.
**13. Networking:**
- Connect with other dental hygienists and professionals in the field to learn from their experiences and stay informed about job opportunities.
**14. Continuing Education:**
- Many states require dental hygienists to complete continuing education courses to maintain licensure. Stay current with your education throughout your career.
**15. Professional Associations:**
- Consider joining professional organizations like the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), which can provide resources, networking opportunities, and support in your career.
Remember that a career as a dental hygienist involves continuous learning and dedication to providing high-quality oral healthcare. It's a rewarding field where you can make a significant impact on people's lives by promoting good oral hygiene and helping maintain healthy smiles.
**1. Complete High School:**
- Ensure you have a high school diploma or equivalent to start your educational journey.
**2. Prerequisite Courses:**
- Take high school courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Strong foundational knowledge in these subjects is valuable for dental hygiene education.
**3. Research Dental Hygiene Programs:**
- Look for accredited dental hygiene programs at colleges or universities in your area or in locations you're willing to relocate to.
**4. Associate's or Bachelor's Degree:**
- Dental hygiene programs typically offer either an Associate's Degree or a Bachelor's Degree. Both are valid pathways, but a Bachelor's Degree can provide more opportunities for career advancement.
**5. Admission Requirements:**
- Review the admission requirements for the dental hygiene program you're interested in. These may include prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA, and standardized test scores.
**6. Apply to Dental Hygiene School:**
- Submit your application to the dental hygiene program of your choice. Make sure to meet application deadlines and provide all required documentation.
**7. Complete Dental Hygiene Program:**
- Successfully complete the dental hygiene program, which typically takes two to four years, depending on the degree level.
**8. Clinical Experience:**
- Gain hands-on clinical experience as part of your program. This is where you'll learn to work on teeth and perform dental procedures under supervision.
**9. Licensing Exam:**
- After graduation, you'll need to pass a licensing examination, which usually consists of a written and clinical component. Requirements vary by state, so be sure to research the specific licensing requirements in your state.
**10. Obtain State Licensure:**
- Once you pass the licensing exam, apply for licensure in your state to become a registered dental hygienist.
**11. Stay Informed:**
- Dental hygiene is a dynamic field, and it's essential to stay updated on the latest research, techniques, and technologies in oral healthcare.
**12. Consider Further Education:**
- Some dental hygienists choose to pursue advanced degrees or certifications in specialties like periodontology or public health.
**13. Networking:**
- Connect with other dental hygienists and professionals in the field to learn from their experiences and stay informed about job opportunities.
**14. Continuing Education:**
- Many states require dental hygienists to complete continuing education courses to maintain licensure. Stay current with your education throughout your career.
**15. Professional Associations:**
- Consider joining professional organizations like the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), which can provide resources, networking opportunities, and support in your career.
Remember that a career as a dental hygienist involves continuous learning and dedication to providing high-quality oral healthcare. It's a rewarding field where you can make a significant impact on people's lives by promoting good oral hygiene and helping maintain healthy smiles.
Keely Marlow
Workers Compensation Adjuster
2
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Keely’s Answer
Hello Zoey,
Here's the information I've gathered about the field of dental hygiene:
The curriculum typically includes basic science courses such as general chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and pathology. In addition, there are specific dental courses which cover dental anatomy, oral pathology, and radiography. Furthermore, dental hygiene science courses focus on oral health education/preventive counseling, patient management, and community dental health. Practical aspects include dental hygiene patient care.
To gain a deeper understanding, I would suggest visiting various dental practices in your locality. Don't hesitate to ask them questions about the profession. Express your interest, as they might offer internships or allow you to shadow their work. This hands-on experience can be a valuable addition to your resume and provide you with a realistic perspective on whether this career path suits you.
Regarding your education, here's what I found:
In Illinois, there are specific steps to follow to become a dental hygienist. Firstly, you need to earn at least an Associate's Degree in Dental Hygiene. Next, you're required to pass both National and Regional Examinations. After that, you can submit your license application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Lastly, to maintain your licensure, you need to complete continuing education.
Remember, it's perfectly fine to take your time exploring. You're at a stage where expanding your knowledge and understanding your interests are crucial for your future.
I hope this information is helpful to you! :)
Here's the information I've gathered about the field of dental hygiene:
The curriculum typically includes basic science courses such as general chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and pathology. In addition, there are specific dental courses which cover dental anatomy, oral pathology, and radiography. Furthermore, dental hygiene science courses focus on oral health education/preventive counseling, patient management, and community dental health. Practical aspects include dental hygiene patient care.
To gain a deeper understanding, I would suggest visiting various dental practices in your locality. Don't hesitate to ask them questions about the profession. Express your interest, as they might offer internships or allow you to shadow their work. This hands-on experience can be a valuable addition to your resume and provide you with a realistic perspective on whether this career path suits you.
Regarding your education, here's what I found:
In Illinois, there are specific steps to follow to become a dental hygienist. Firstly, you need to earn at least an Associate's Degree in Dental Hygiene. Next, you're required to pass both National and Regional Examinations. After that, you can submit your license application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Lastly, to maintain your licensure, you need to complete continuing education.
Remember, it's perfectly fine to take your time exploring. You're at a stage where expanding your knowledge and understanding your interests are crucial for your future.
I hope this information is helpful to you! :)