Dental Hygienist

 

Career Description

Dental hygienists are licensed health care professionals who can provide direct care to patients with numerous oral health services. They scale and polish teeth; apply cavity-preventive agents, such as fluoride and sealant; expose, process and interpret X-rays; monitor patients’ medical and oral health; examine teeth and oral cavities; place temporary fillings and periodontal dressings; remove sutures; polish metal restorations; teach proper brushing and flossing techniques; and design and implement community or school oral health programs.

Academic Requirements

Education for dental hygiene can be obtained through a two-year certificate course or an associate’s degree program from community colleges or vocational-technical schools. Although each program may have unique requirements for acceptance, at least one year of college is recommended. The prospective dental hygienist may complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program at a college or university. A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for admission to dental hygiene schools.

Schools

St. Louis Community College - Forest Park
314/644-9100

University of Missouri-Kansas City
816/235-2100

Professional Associations

National
American Dental Assistants Association
American Dental Association
American Dental Hygienists’ Association

State
Greater St. Louis Dental Society
Missouri Dental Association
Missouri Dental Hygienists' Association
Missouri State Dental Board

Additional Information

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