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 Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a licensed oral health professional specializing in preventive dental care. They perform tasks such as cleaning teeth, applying sealants, taking X-rays, assessing oral health, documenting patient care, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene.
RDHs may also hold titles like Licensed Dental Hygienist (LDH), Oral Health Therapist (OHT), or Dental Hygiene Practitioner (DHP), depending on regional regulations.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Specialty: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Advanced: ADEX Dental Hygienist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
A Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a licensed oral health professional specializing in preventive dental care. They perform tasks such as cleaning teeth, applying sealants, taking X-rays, assessing oral health, documenting patient care, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene.
RDHs may also hold titles like Licensed Dental Hygienist (LDH), Oral Health Therapist (OHT), or Dental Hygiene Practitioner (DHP), depending on regional regulations.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Specialty: Certified Dental Technician - Orthodontics
- Advanced: ADEX Dental Hygienist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
