3 answers
Tasnin
Student
Ashburn, Virginia
7
Questions
Asked
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What would I do to become a dental hygienist or an ultrasound technician? (multiple questions in the description)
I am having trouble deciding whether I want to be a dental hygienist or an ultrasound technician. Either way, I am unsure of what I am meant to do to become either or. I was doing some research and they said I could just go to community college as you only need 2 years (associate degree) to become a dental hygienist (not sure about ultrasound technician) Is that true? Could I still go to a regular college instead and do 4 years to get my bachelor's? How many years would these professions take? What should I know before going into these fields? What college major would they fall into?
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3 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Hi Tasnin
DENTAL HYGIENIST
No matter which degree you choose, becoming a licensed hygienist requires attending a college or university that’s been approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The minimum level of education degree for a dental hygienist is an associate’s degree, though bachelor’s is also a option if you want to move up in the field. The length of time it takes to complete your education depends on the degree you choose. A bachelor’s degree will expand your career options. Not uncommon you could start with a associate’s AAS degree and begin working as a dental hygienist while earning your bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene. Either way, you’ll be required to gain clinical experience as part of your program. As a dental hygienist you should have strong skills in communication, critical thinking, problem-solving. They should also be empathetic and patient and have good attention to detail, all while maintaining professionalism in the office.
ULTRASOUND TECHNICIAN
Wondering how to become an ultrasound technician. You'll need anywhere from 2-4 years to complete your ultrasound technician education, depending on your level of education before beginning the process and how extensive an educational pathway you choose. A degree in diagnostic medical sonography will prepare you to take licensing exams and work as a entry-level ultrasound tech position. Program curriculums include courses in anatomy, medical terminology, patient care skills and echocardiography, among other subjects. There are several options for a sonography education. Most ultrasound techs opt to pursue a two-year associate degree in sonography from an accredited program, though bachelor’s degrees are also available. Along with your knowledge of the body’s systems, you need strong attention to detail while you perform scans and prepare images for doctors. You must be able to distinguish between healthy and damaged internal structures, accurately identify obstructions, and properly label what you find. Doctors rely on your expertise to help them diagnose any issues and create the right treatment plan.
While both dental assistants and diagnostic medical sonographers work in the healthcare field, the work environments are different.
• Dental assistants primarily work in dental offices, assisting dentists and dental hygienists in providing dental care to patients.
• Diagnostic medical sonographers typically work in hospitals, clinics, or imaging centers, collaborating with physicians to perform ultrasound procedures.
Hope this was helpful Tasnin
DENTAL HYGIENIST
No matter which degree you choose, becoming a licensed hygienist requires attending a college or university that’s been approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The minimum level of education degree for a dental hygienist is an associate’s degree, though bachelor’s is also a option if you want to move up in the field. The length of time it takes to complete your education depends on the degree you choose. A bachelor’s degree will expand your career options. Not uncommon you could start with a associate’s AAS degree and begin working as a dental hygienist while earning your bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene. Either way, you’ll be required to gain clinical experience as part of your program. As a dental hygienist you should have strong skills in communication, critical thinking, problem-solving. They should also be empathetic and patient and have good attention to detail, all while maintaining professionalism in the office.
ULTRASOUND TECHNICIAN
Wondering how to become an ultrasound technician. You'll need anywhere from 2-4 years to complete your ultrasound technician education, depending on your level of education before beginning the process and how extensive an educational pathway you choose. A degree in diagnostic medical sonography will prepare you to take licensing exams and work as a entry-level ultrasound tech position. Program curriculums include courses in anatomy, medical terminology, patient care skills and echocardiography, among other subjects. There are several options for a sonography education. Most ultrasound techs opt to pursue a two-year associate degree in sonography from an accredited program, though bachelor’s degrees are also available. Along with your knowledge of the body’s systems, you need strong attention to detail while you perform scans and prepare images for doctors. You must be able to distinguish between healthy and damaged internal structures, accurately identify obstructions, and properly label what you find. Doctors rely on your expertise to help them diagnose any issues and create the right treatment plan.
While both dental assistants and diagnostic medical sonographers work in the healthcare field, the work environments are different.
• Dental assistants primarily work in dental offices, assisting dentists and dental hygienists in providing dental care to patients.
• Diagnostic medical sonographers typically work in hospitals, clinics, or imaging centers, collaborating with physicians to perform ultrasound procedures.
Hope this was helpful Tasnin
Evie Uzamere
Risk Management Analyst
5
Answers
Powder Springs, Georgia
Updated
Evie’s Answer
The decision is completely in your hands. I'm confident that you have the capability to pursue either path with an associate degree, provided you've completed the necessary core courses. Opting for a four-year degree might provide you with more opportunities in the future, perhaps if you choose to switch careers, like becoming a dentist for instance. However, the choice boils down to your personal preference and the duration you're willing to spend in college.
Thank you, Evie for the advice.
Tasnin
Mbah Wai-Tanyi Aguh
Agronomist
56
Answers
New Rochelle, New York
Updated
Mbah Wai-Tanyi’s Answer
I'd be happy to help you explore these career options!
Dental Hygienist:
- Typical education: Associate's degree (2 years) in dental hygiene
- Some colleges offer Bachelor's degrees (4 years) in dental hygiene, which can lead to advanced roles or teaching positions
- Program requirements:
- Prerequisite courses (e.g., anatomy, biology, chemistry)
- Dental hygiene coursework and clinical training
- Licensure exam (RDH) after graduation
- College major: Dental Hygiene or Health Sciences
*Ultrasound Technician (Diagnostic Medical Sonographer):*
- Typical education: Associate's degree (2 years) or Postsecondary certificate (1-2 years)
- Some colleges offer Bachelor's degrees (4 years) in diagnostic medical sonography
- Program requirements:
- Prerequisite courses (e.g., anatomy, physiology, physics)
- Sonography coursework and clinical training
- Professional certification (RDMS) after graduation
- College major: Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Allied Health
*Key considerations:*
- Both careers require hands-on training and clinical experience
- Licensure or certification is often required for practice
- Continuing education is essential for staying current with advancements in the field
- Consider job outlook, salary ranges, and growth opportunities in your area
*Community college vs. regular college:*
- Community colleges often offer more affordable tuition and flexible scheduling
- Regular colleges may provide more comprehensive education, research opportunities, and campus experiences
- Both paths can lead to successful careers, but consider your individual needs and goals
*Additional tips:*
- Research accredited programs and ensure they meet state requirements
- Gain observation or volunteer experience in both fields to help with your decision
- Speak with professionals in each field to gain insights and advice
Remember, it's essential to choose a career that aligns with your passions, skills, and goals. Take your time, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have further questions!
Dental Hygienist:
- Typical education: Associate's degree (2 years) in dental hygiene
- Some colleges offer Bachelor's degrees (4 years) in dental hygiene, which can lead to advanced roles or teaching positions
- Program requirements:
- Prerequisite courses (e.g., anatomy, biology, chemistry)
- Dental hygiene coursework and clinical training
- Licensure exam (RDH) after graduation
- College major: Dental Hygiene or Health Sciences
*Ultrasound Technician (Diagnostic Medical Sonographer):*
- Typical education: Associate's degree (2 years) or Postsecondary certificate (1-2 years)
- Some colleges offer Bachelor's degrees (4 years) in diagnostic medical sonography
- Program requirements:
- Prerequisite courses (e.g., anatomy, physiology, physics)
- Sonography coursework and clinical training
- Professional certification (RDMS) after graduation
- College major: Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Allied Health
*Key considerations:*
- Both careers require hands-on training and clinical experience
- Licensure or certification is often required for practice
- Continuing education is essential for staying current with advancements in the field
- Consider job outlook, salary ranges, and growth opportunities in your area
*Community college vs. regular college:*
- Community colleges often offer more affordable tuition and flexible scheduling
- Regular colleges may provide more comprehensive education, research opportunities, and campus experiences
- Both paths can lead to successful careers, but consider your individual needs and goals
*Additional tips:*
- Research accredited programs and ensure they meet state requirements
- Gain observation or volunteer experience in both fields to help with your decision
- Speak with professionals in each field to gain insights and advice
Remember, it's essential to choose a career that aligns with your passions, skills, and goals. Take your time, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have further questions!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Tasnin