DENTAL HYGIENISTS Number 155 Interest Area 13 1998
THE JOB
DENTAL HYGIENISTS are part of the dental care team which includes dentists, dental assistants and dental technicians working together to prevent and control gum disease and the development of tooth decay.
Dental Hygienists clean and polish teeth using scaling instruments and a rotating polisher. They apply decay preventive agents such as fluorides and sealants, chart medical and dental histories and take and develop dental X-ray films. They also gather all of the patient data and information for the dentist and teach patients good oral hygiene practices.
Hygienists do not diagnose problems, but over time they have acquired more responsibility. They can administer anesthesia for pain control and prepare clinical and laboratory diagnostic tests for interpretation by dentists. On occasion they may work with dentists in the capacity of dental assistant. They are increasingly involved in periodontal therapies including root planing, micro-ultrasonics and soft tissue curettage.
Dental Hygienists who are employed in public health such as Indian Health Services (in the federal Health and Human Services Department) or in community health programs help dentists assess dental care needs and plan appropriate dental health programs. This includes supervising field training for dental hygiene students. They also provide clinical services, especially for children.
Dental Hygienists who work in hospitals, clinics and nursing and convalescent homes assist dentists with oral health problems of the patients. At colleges and universities, they engage in research in the field, teach dental hygiene programs and may be employed as faculty members in dental schools.
New legislation that would allow hygienists to work independently is currently pending. Sponsored by the California Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), the bill, if enacted, allows hygienists to set up their own practice or work in a group practice.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Dental Hygienists work in pleasant modern, well-lighted, heated, and ventilated surroundings that usually have the latest dental equipment.
While most of the time Dental Hygienists work sitting down, they can still develop back and neck pain. Repetitive hand and wrist movements used in their work may cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Other hazards include exposure to infectious diseases and possible overdose of radiation from X-rays. Risks are minimized by using such safety gear as masks, safety glasses and special aprons. Important health protection in this occupation includes regular checkups and strict adherence to safety procedures for the use of X-ray equipment.
The work requires good vision (may be corrected) and finger dexterity for close attention to detail and handling of sharp instruments. Constant work with other dental team members in a confined space is common.
Licensed Dental Hygienists are eligible to join the American Dental Hygienists' Association and California Dental Hygienists' Association.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Information Division.
Estimated number of workers in 1993 16,590 Estimated number of workers in 2005 24,240 Projected Growth 1993-2005 46% Estimated openings due to separations by 2005 4,650
(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)
The employment outlook for Dental Hygienists remains good. Newly created jobs will account for most job opportunities, but a sizable number will also occur as workers die, retire or change careers.
A number of factors contribute to such growth: heightened awareness of the importance of regular dental care, more people with dental insurance coverage, and an aging population with extended dental care needs.
Other factors which will result in new jobs for hygienists include a greater emphasis on community and public health, advances in dental hygiene education, increased specialty areas and new dental health counseling programs. New opportunities are also arising in Public Health Programs sponsored by schools and federal, State, and local Health Departments.
WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS
Earnings can vary widely between areas. Education and work experience often determine salary levels. The average range for entry Dental Hygienists is $60 to $280 for an eight-hour day. Experienced hygienists earn an average pay range of $100 to $330 for eight hours. Hygienists who have worked at least three years for the same employer often earn the top wages. According the California Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA), salaries range between $180 and $375 a day, with temporary employment agencies paying $30 to $40 hourly.
Dental Hygienists employed by the State of California earn $2,664 - $3,200 a month; Dental Hygienists Auditors and Consultants earn $3,200 - $3,859 monthly.
Fringe benefits usually include medical insurance, paid vacation and sick leave - especially for full time employees. Many employers provide retirement plans and discounts on dental work.
Most Dental Hygienists work part time - eight hours a day, usually two or three days a week. They often work for more than one dentist.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING
Dental Hygienists must be licensed in California, under the provisions of the Dental Practice Act, administered by the State Board of Dental Examiners. Applicants for licensing must have a minimum of a two-year degree from an accredited (American Dental Association) dental hygiene program. Dental Hygienists must also pass the National Board examination given by the Joint Commission on Dental Examinations and the practical examination given by the State Board. The license must be renewed every two years; 25 hours of continuing education is required.
Contact the CDHA for a list of the schools in California. Required background varies and may include courses in math, biology, and chemistry. The schools combine classroom instruction with clinical and laboratory work and include such courses as pharmacology, nutrition, anatomy, and physiology.
There are more applicants than available training slots. Students often take college-level courses in general education and science for up to two years to improve their chances of acceptance into a dental hygiene program.
Personal traits essential to the job are good judgment, patience, tact, ability to tolerate stress, and a genuine concern for people.
Dental Hygienists should be able to deal tactfully with people and stimulate interest and motivation to all age groups in the prevention of dental disease. They must pay close attention to detail and be able to follow instructions exactly.
ADVANCEMENT
Dental Hygienists advance primarily in expanded roles and greater responsibilities. With additional education and experience, they may specialize in areas such orthodontia. Some go into teaching. In government jobs, they may advance to Dental Hygienist Auditor or Consultant.
FINDING THE JOB
Employers recruit through newspaper ads, employee referrals, and schools. Jobseekers should also apply directly with dentists, the California Employment Development Department Job Service, and government agencies such as the California Department of Corrections. Telephone yellow pages list private employment agencies that specialize in placing medial and dental personnel in both temporary and permanent jobs.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION
California Dental Hygienists' Association 660 J Street Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 442-4531 www.cdha.org
American Dental Hygienists' Association 444 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 3400 Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 440-8900 www.adha.org
Committee on Dental Auxiliaries 1428 Howe Ave. Suite 58 Sacramento CA 95825 (916) 263-2595
RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES
Dental Assistants No. 27 Dental Laboratory Technicians No. 243 Dentists No. 377
OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed., 1991) Dental Hygienist (medical service) 078.361-010
OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System Dental Hygienists 329080
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162.
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