The career of dental hygiene is expected to grow much faster that the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Dental hygiene will continue to be in the top 10 growth disciplines in the health care profession through the year 2005. There is great stability in the dental hygiene field. According to the American Dental Association, an average dental hygienist has worked in their current position for 5.5 years. Info Get a list of the state accredited dental hygiene programs .
Dental hygienists perform many patient care roles in the dental office.
Most dental hygienists are employed by general dentists, who often employ more than one hygienist. The salary of a dental hygienist varies depending upon the responsibilities associated with the position, the geographic location of employment, and the type of practice setting in which the hygienist works. Many dental hygienists also receive benefit packages from their dentist employers. There are two types of dental hygiene programs. The basic two-year program leading to an associate degree consists of courses in basic sciences, dental sciences, and liberal arts as well as clinical experience.