Oral health is more important than you may think. In fact, thanks to recent studies, it’s more evident than ever that oral health and physical health are intricately connected. That’s where the heroes of dental hygiene step in. As this knowledge becomes more widespread, the need for dental hygienists is only going to grow.

Dental hygienists focus on oral health, taking care of your teeth and gums and contributing to patients’ overall wellness. As such, they are vital to healthcare. Read on to learn more about the dental hygienist career path, including its requirements, benefits, and opportunities over time.

The pathway to becoming a dental hygienist

Dental hygienists are integral to the dental team in providing excellent care. They work closely with dentists to perform routine cleanings and educate patients to prevent detrimental health problems, such as cavities and gum disease.

A career in dental hygiene typically begins with an associate degree. An associate degree in Dental Hygiene is a two-year program that covers theoretical knowledge and clinical practice. It prepares students with the fundamental skills needed to deliver preventative dental services, screenings, and care.

After schooling, aspiring hygienists must pass a written exam and receive a clinical license to practice professionally. However, in this field, education is never-ending. Dental hygienists must continuously learn and grow in their fields, as well as stay on top of state licensure laws.

Learn how to become a dental hygienist through Goodwin University.

Why dental hygiene?

The field of dental hygiene doesn’t just offer job security and competitive salaries—it also provides an opportunity for individuals to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Let’s take an in-depth look at the benefits of the dental hygienist career path:

Job security

The dental hygiene career path offers excellent job security, with the demand for dental hygienists projected to grow at least 9% annually through 2032. This increasing demand is due to a growing focus on preventative care, ensuring stable career opportunities across a variety of healthcare settings.

Salary range

Dental hygienists earn competitive salaries ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. This can depend on experience, location, and specialization. With advanced degrees or certifications, dental hygienists have the potential to increase their earnings even further.

Focus and passion

This career is ideal for those passionate about healthcare. A large part of the responsibilities of dental hygienists is to educate patients about oral health. By doing this, they raise awareness in their communities and positively impact patients’ lives.

Education and advancement

There are multiple pathways for education and advancement in dental hygiene. Opportunities are abundant for anyone seeking professional development through either an associate or a bachelor’s degree. In fact, it’s quite common for dental hygienists to choose to further their education, specializing in specific areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or even public health, depending on what sparks interest. Whether through workshops, certifications, or advanced degrees, continuing your learning opens doors to leadership roles and other specialized positions.

Diverse career opportunities

The dental hygiene career path offers a variety of career paths. Hygienists work in places like private practices, public health clinics, and educational settings. Their duties include cleanings, taking X-rays, patient education, and much more. Dental hygienists also can choose between clinical, traditional, and nonclinical roles. This choice lets dental hygienists find a work environment that suits their interests and lifestyles.

Work-life balance

One of the most attractive aspects of a dental hygienist career path is flexibility. Hygienists often enjoy flexible scheduling options, allowing them to work part-time or full-time as desired. This allows dental hygienists to determine how their workday will be scheduled, letting staff attune their work with whatever personal lifestyle benefits them best, all without being bound to a traditional 9-to-5 workday.

Dental hygiene career options

There are several pathways within the field of dental hygiene. Dental hygienists can pursue clinical roles, traditional roles, or even non-clinical roles, depending on their interests.

Clinical roles

• General Dental Hygienist. Performs routine cleanings, takes X-rays, and provides preventive care in dental practices.
• Pediatric Hygienist. Specializes in working with children, focusing on education and behavior management to encourage lifelong oral health.
• Geriatric Hygienist. Works with older adults, addressing age-specific dental needs and managing health-related issues.

Traditional roles

• Private Practice. Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices, providing direct patient care and oral health education.
• Public Health Clinics. Dental hygienists in this role focus on community outreach, preventive care, and education, particularly in underserved areas.
• Dental Schools. Dental hygienists can become educators, combining clinical practice with teaching future dental professionals.

Non-clinical roles

• Research and Development. Dental hygienists can work with dental product companies, contributing to the development of new technologies and products.
• Dental Educator. Those interested in teaching can pursue a role as a dental hygiene instructor at universities or colleges.
• Public Health Advocate. Dental hygienists can advocate for dental health initiatives, influencing policies at the community or state level.

Corporate roles

• Sales Representative. Market dental products or equipment to dental practices and clinics.
• Consultant. Advise dental practices on improving patient care, operational efficiency, or adopting new technologies.
• Corporate Trainer. Train dental staff on using new products, equipment, or procedures.

Entrepreneurial opportunities

• Private Practice Owner. Start a dental hygiene practice or consultancy.
• Mobile Hygiene Services. Provide on-site dental hygiene services for patients who cannot easily visit a clinic, such as those in nursing homes or remote areas.

Advancement opportunities for dental hygienists

As you can see, there are a lot of opportunities for advancement if you’re willing to work hard and get creative. Networking with peers, attending industry conferences, and joining professional organizations can help hygienists connect and discover new growth opportunities. When choosing to advance, continuing your education is pivotal to do so. Whether through certifications or pursuing leadership roles like lead hygienists, practice managers, or even instructors.

Walk down the dental hygienist career path!

The path of a dental hygienist includes a blend of stability and diverse growth opportunities. A dental hygiene career path can be rewarding, no matter your end goal. Goodwin University is committed to helping aspiring hygienists take their first step toward their dream careers. With a range of programs and career support for all their students, Goodwin is here for you!

Learn more about the dental hygienist program at Goodwin University to see if this career path is right for you!