Long tearm goals
The long-term goals of a dental hygienist include being in charge of qualification training and obtaining additional certifications. It will help expand the scope of activities and provide additional services in the future. B. A dental hygienist degree is required to start acting in this area; further, one may get a license of a certified dental technician. Then, one needs to get an infection control certificate, which allows one to work in the field of infectious diseases prevention. Furthermore, an important goal is to provide services to people with serious dental diseases. For this activity, it is necessary to obtain a dental hygienist license.
Focus 2 results vs. dental hygienist career
Focus 2 assessment showed that the dominant qualities (in the first three columns) are appropriate for the chosen career. It includes working with details, the ability to persuade and listen to the opinions of others, as well as to evaluate them. In addition, it is of high priority to work in areas that follow set routines and procedures.
Duties
The main responsibilities of a dental hygienist may be divided into two parts: effective and preventive. The effective actions of the hygienists are directive ones: interrogation, diagnosis, cleaning. Preventive measures include informing and educating patients about modern dental care technologies. Moreover, if necessary, one may use special equipment that prevents the occurrence of problems in the future.
Competencies
Among the main competencies are those related to communication with the patient and operating in the dental hygiene field. It includes communication skills to provide the patient with a comfortable environment and ensure that all details have been considered. One also needs communication competence for making a diagnosis: without basic information about the patient, making a correct diagnosis is impossible. Further, the core competencies include direct instrument management and dental hygiene services provision. Among them is the assessment of the situation and the management of special equipment. One also should have competence in disease management and prevention methods.
Unknown functions or duties
Among hygienist’s function is dealing with blood pressure and pulse, moreover, one has to assess the influence if these factors on the overall picture.
Dental hygienist needs to have some knowledge in nutrition area, and to analyze its impact on oral health. In addition, it is necessary to inform patient about healthy diet to prevent the unwanted consequences of improper oral care
Average salary & career advancement opportunities
As one may notice, the average annual and hourly wages are above average. In addition, there are perspectives in the form of working in public health care and dental hygiene education. It can also include creating courses on different platforms, which will contribute to the development of the client base. Moreover, in the case of a large customer base, there are possibilities for launching one’s own business. In other words, one may open a private clinic or office, hire employees, and expand the scope of activities in the future.
Uncomfortable aspects & professional organizations
Such work entails some difficulties in the form of physical activity. Namely, it implies long-term routine work, as well as being in an uncomfortable position. It can lead to discomfort or even pain in some areas, most often in the back. In addition, it is necessary to maintain attention to detail and not weaken one’s concentration for several hours.
Alternative profession
The main advantage is that such work implies the possibility of moving into a related profession. The field of dental healthcare is wide; therefore, doctors usually have a wide range of knowledge in different parts of this field. Thus, for example, one can become a dentist: the basic principles are the same; moreover, the necessary knowledge is similar. However, the dentist needs a deeper knowledge of the surgical business and the ability to handle special equipment. Additionally, the dentist has the same prospects and stable income as the dental hygienist has.
References
Explore Health Careers. (2021). Allied Health Professions, Dental Hygienists.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2021). Occupational Outlook Handbook, Dental Hygienists.
Dental Hygienists. (2021). Dental Hygienist Education & Career Guide.