Duties and Responsibilities:

Dental hygienists provide preventive treatment for oral health problems. They also educate patients and promote dental health. Dental hygienists:

·        Screen patients for dentists.

·        Take and develop radiographs.

·        Remove calculus and plaque from teeth.

·        Apply preventive treatments to teeth.

Average Salary: $22,000 - $35,000

Educational Requirements:             

        Dental hygienists must have a high school diploma or GED certificate before participating in dental hygiene education programs.

        Dental hygienists usually earn an Associate’s Degree at a community college or private school. Some hygienists earn Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees if they want to teach, do research, or broaden their scope into public health issues.