10. They can work in a wide variety of settings
Dental hygienists can work in a wide variety of settings, including public health, private dental practices, research teams, educational facilities and community institutions. They are in demand in general dental practices and specialty practices such as pediatric dentistry. They are also in demand in public health services where oral health education is important.
Different levels of education and experience equip them to work in different situations. They may get involved in teaching dental hygiene students in dental hygiene education programs. They may decide to go into research and work as part of a research team. This involves learning how to manage and coordinate clinical trials. They may even choose to work for companies that market dental-related equipment and materials.
Those who work in public health may do oral health screening in elementary schools, promote and educate people about oral health and render preventative dental hygiene services. Dental hygienists who want to make a difference across a community rather than strictly giving individual care are often drawn to public health dentistry. Educational requirements to go into public health vary, with most posts requiring the minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
Many of those who experience difficulty with physical problems in private practice turn to education, where their clinical expertise is valued. When an instructor is passionate about a profession, it can energize learners and keeps them engaged in the learning process. The ability to guide and coach students to being the best hygienists they can be is a great responsibility. Dental hygiene educators have the opportunity to shape the future of the profession. Educational requirements vary for educators with some having very strict requirements and others only requiring a bachelor’s degree.