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 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
Missouri Southern State University (Joplin)
866/816-MSSU
Ozarks Technical Community College (Springfield)
417/447-7500
State Fair Community College (Sedalia)
660/530-5800
Professional Associations
National
American Dental Assistants Association
American Dental Association
American Dental Hygienists’ Association
State
Missouri Dental Association
Missouri Dental Hygienists' Association
Missouri State Dental Board
