Course Advisor is hiring: Dental Hygienist in Washington

Dental Hygienist Definition: Clean teeth and examine oral areas, head, and neck for signs of oral disease. May educate patients on oral hygiene, take and develop x-rays, or apply fluoride or sealants.

What Do Dental Hygienists Do On a Daily Basis?

• Feel lymph nodes under patient’s chin to detect swelling or tenderness that could indicate the presence of oral cancer.
• Record and review patient medical histories.
• Expose and develop x-ray film.
• Provide clinical services or health education to improve and maintain the oral health of patients or the general public.
• Maintain patient recall system.
• Make impressions for study casts.

Things a Dental Hygienist Should Know How to Do

Below is a list of the skills most Dental Hygienists say are important on the job.

• Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
• Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.

How Much Does a Dental Hygienist Make?

The salary for Dental Hygienists ranges between about $51,930 and $101,820 a year.

Dental Hygienists who work in Alaska, California, or Washington, make the highest salaries.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist

Learn what Dental Hygienist education requirements there are.

Who Employs Dental Hygienists?

Below are examples of industries where Dental Hygienists work:

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