Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting

Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis, and provide other preventive dental care. Dental assistants provide patient care, take x rays, recordkeeping and schedule appointments. 

Employment of dental hygienists and dental assistants is projected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. The aging population and ongoing research linking oral health and general health will continue to increase the demand for preventive dental services. Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook

Dental hygienists and assistants use research to provide evidence-based care that promotes quality health outcomes for individuals, families, communities and health care systems. They may also use research to shape health policy in direct care, within an organization, and at the local, state and federal levels.

Dental hygienists and assistants are critical thinkers, problem solvers, empathetic, flexible, patient, dedicated, detail oriented, organized, and more.