Dental hygienists are essential members of dental care teams dedicated to ensuring patients maintain optimal oral health. They clean teeth, apply preventive treatments like fluoride, and educate patients on oral hygiene. Working closely with dentists, they contribute to effective patient care and treatment plans.
This role requires strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and a passion for promoting oral wellness. Aspiring dental hygienists typically pursue accredited dental hygiene programs and obtain licensure. Opportunities for career advancement include specialization in areas like pediatric dentistry or public health.
Explore the pathways below to learn more.
Pathways are the various job options within a career that share common skills, knowledge, and interests. In addition to the popular pathways below, dental hygienist pathways include:
- Work in public health
- Research
- Sales or Marketing roles in the dental industry.
Here is a snapshot of popular Dental hygienist pathways in the Charlotte metro area. Select each title for details.
A Pediatric Dental Hygienist is responsible for children's oral health and well-being. Their duties include removing tartar, applying sealants and fluorides, conducting X-rays, assessing oral health, documenting patient care, and educating patients and parents on proper oral hygiene practices.
Pediatric Dental Hygienists commonly hold titles such as Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), Licensed Dental Hygienist (LDH), and Oral Health Therapist (OHT). These titles reflect their qualifications and expertise in pediatric dental care.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Specialty: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Advanced: ADEX Dental Hygienist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
A Pediatric Dental Hygienist is responsible for children's oral health and well-being. Their duties include removing tartar, applying sealants and fluorides, conducting X-rays, assessing oral health, documenting patient care, and educating patients and parents on proper oral hygiene practices.
Pediatric Dental Hygienists commonly hold titles such as Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), Licensed Dental Hygienist (LDH), and Oral Health Therapist (OHT). These titles reflect their qualifications and expertise in pediatric dental care.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Specialty: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Advanced: ADEX Dental Hygienist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
