It's common knowledge that everyone should get a proper dental cleaning at least twice a year.
Going to the dentist may not be fun for some, but dental hygiene can severely impact one's health and life. When people go in for regular cleanings, they are taken into the hands of dental hygienists. Using state-of-the-art cleaning tools, dental hygienists work to make sure that your teeth are squeaky clean. Oral cleanliness is next to godliness! But hygienists don't just clean your teeth, they also examine your mouth and teeth for cavities, signs of decay, or injury. They take x-rays, assist dentists with oral procedures, and educate their patients on proper oral hygiene.
Dental Hygiene is a field that requires high skill and a passion for helping others. Although it does not take as many years as a dentist to become a hygienist, adults still must pass all of their clinical skills. For many, the first step in becoming a licensed dental hygienist is to go to school to get their Bachelor of Science degree. Keep reading to see College Choice's ranking of the best 40 programs in the nation.
What type of bachelor's in dental hygiene should you get?
There are generally two types of BS degrees in dental hygiene: an entry-level program and a completion one. The entry-level program is a four-year degree for students entering right after high school. The four-year program consists of two years of prerequisite courses and two-years of major courses. The completion degree is a two-year program that is for students who possess an associate degree or for those who already have their dental hygienist license but who wish to get an official degree.
While some schools offer both programs, many offer only the two-year completion degree. Students should check to see if they meet the prerequisite qualifications before applying. Because dental hygiene is a professional program that is often geared toward adults, some programs may be taken either on a full- or part-time schedule. This is a great option for those who are already working professionals.
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How much money does a bachelor's in dental hygiene make?
The majority of those who graduate with a BS in dental hygiene go on to become dental hygienists. This career offers a great starting salary, with many experienced professionals eventually making close to six figures. According to PayScale, the national average salary is $60,000. However, the median pay as of 2019 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is $74,820. The top 10% of earners make about $101,330.
It should be noted that it is not always necessary to possess a BS in Dental Hygiene to become a successful, licensed dental hygienist. Sometimes only an associate degree is needed, provided they have mastered all the necessary clinical skills. However, a BS is always good to have as it gives one more overall knowledge and increased chances to train side by side with already licensed staff. Obtaining a BS is also good just in case one would like to train for other dental-related positions.
What can you do with a bachelor's in dental hygiene?
Although pursuing clinical practice is the most common career path, it is not the only option! Clinical dental hygienists will typically work in dental practices, hospitals, or nursing homes. However, they can also work in public health, corporate offices, education, and research. For instance, many corporations within the oral health industry will need people to research and develop future products. Colleges and universities may need research done about oral hygiene trends throughout the years. While some of these positions may require further education, a BS will provide one with enough experience for most entry-level positions.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs indental hygiene are expected to experience a growth of about 20% from 2016 to 2026. This increase is most likely due to the fact that as more of our population ages, the more need there will be for oral hygiene and health attention among patients. This growth is much higher than the national average for other positions, ensuring that students will most likely find a job right after graduation.
What are the requirements for a bachelor's in dental hygiene?
Programs that offer a BS in dental hygiene can be very strict about prerequisite requirements. Students will need to take courses in topics such as mathematics, chemistry, biology, and psychology. lower-division courses will take about two years to complete. After completing the prerequisites, students are usually not automatically admitted to the program, but rather must apply.
During the last two years of the program, students will take upper-division courses that are specifically related to dental hygiene. They will also be required to complete several clinical experiences either at their local school clinic or in a local facility. Students will work alongside already licensed dental hygienists as well as dentists. Upon graduation, they will be able to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination as well as apply for specific state licensure.
