Dental Hygienist
Registered Dental Hygientists are licensed oral health professionals who focus on preventing and treating diseases of the teeth and gums. As part of dental hygiene services, dental hygienists may:
- Perform oral health assessments
- Expose, process, and interpret dental x-rays
- Remove plaque and calculus (soft and hard deposits) from above and below the gumline
- Apply cavity-preventiive agents such as fluoride and sealants to the teeth
- Teach patients proper oral hygiene techniques to maintain health teeth and gums
- Counsel patients on the importance of good nutrition for maintaining optimal oral health
Work Environment:
Employment is found in private practices, specialty dental practices, teaching institutions, or research facilities. Work Schedules can be flexible with full-time and part-time positions available.
Job Outlook:
The employment outlook for the dental hygiene profession is good.
Licensure/Certification:
Graduates are eligible to take the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination, the Western Regional Examining Board and to apply for licensure in all fifty states. After successfully meeting a state board's licensure requirements, the title Registered Dental Hygienist can be used.
Salary:
At the present time, the salary ranges from $60,000 to $75,000. (http://swz.salary.com)
Program Offerings:
The Associate in Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene, a shared
program with Phoenix College, Mesa Community College, and Rio Salado
College, will prepare students to practice entry-level dental hygiene.
Dental hygiene students will provide preventive and therapeutic services,
and will develop a commitment to the community through extramural opportunities
serving diverse populations. The program is a blend of academic and
clinical coursework that requires attention to detail and motivation
to complete tasks on a timeline.
For more information contact:
Phoenix College: Academic Advisor for Health Professions at 602-285-7862
Mesa Community College: Program Director at 480-645-7772
Rio Salado College: Advisor at 480-517-8540
http://www.pc.maricopa.edu/index.php?page=29&subpage=607&quicksec=611
http://www.mc.maricopa.edu/dept/d11/dental/
http://www.riosalado.edu/programs/dental_hygiene/Pages/default.aspx
Block Transfer for Health Professions:
Not applicable
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