Any dental hygienists out there?

Question

i'm in high school and i'd really like to become a dental hygienist (and possibly a dentist). i have a couple of questions though...

1. Do I need a certain degree or anything?

2. How many years of schooling are required?

3. Would I have to attend a special college (like a dentistry school)?

4. Does the job pay well?

5. If I were to work at a children's dentist office would the pay differ?

any additional info would be greatly appreciated :]

thanks !

Answer 1

1.  Yes you must have a degree.

2.  You can start with an Associates (2yr) or Bachelors (4yr) and work your way up from there.  The main difference is what you want to do as a hygienist.  If you want to work in a dental office doing maintenance cleanings an Associates is sufficient.  However if you plan to work in Public Health, research science, or to teach DHG at a College or University you will need a Bachelors degree (minimum).

3.  You can attend a school of dentistry, technical college, or university.  There are many schools that offer Dental Hygiene.  Most schools for Dentistry only have a 4 year program, and technical or community colleges usually have 2 year programs.

4.  It depends on where you plan to work.  In the D.C/Baltimore area you can make $45 per hour as a temp.  Check out this link for salary in your area:     http://swz.salary.com/

5.  The pay would probably be the same as a general dentist's office.

I just graduated from a program in May.  I love the job and it is very rewarding.Unfortunately, the programs can be costly because most require you purchase your own instruments and such.

  Some tips:  

a) start taking biology courses now if your school offers them

b)consider working as a dental assistant before you begin hygiene school because this will give you a nice head start.  

Good Luck!!!