What prepartion is needed for a dental hygenist?
To become a dental hygienist, several preparations are required, including:
1. Education: Completion of an accredited dental hygiene program is necessary. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, technical colleges, or dental schools and award an associate degree or certificate. The programs generally take two to three years to complete.
2. High school coursework: Taking relevant science courses in high school, such as biology and chemistry, is beneficial to gain a solid foundation for the dental hygiene program.
3. Prerequisites: Some dental hygiene programs may have specific prerequisites, such as completion of certain college-level courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nutrition. These prerequisites vary depending on the program and institution.
4. Admissions test: Some dental hygiene programs require applicants to take an admissions test, like the Dental Hygiene Aptitude Test (DHAT), to assess their aptitude for the profession.
5. Licensing requirements: After completing an accredited dental hygiene program, individuals need to pass a written and clinical examination to become licensed. The specific licensing requirements vary by state but typically include the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a state or regional clinical examination.
6. Professional certifications: Dental hygienists can pursue additional certifications, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) credentials, to enhance their qualifications and expand their scope of practice.
7. Continuing education: Dental hygienists must participate in continuing education courses to keep their knowledge and skills up to date throughout their career. These courses are necessary to maintain licensure and may cover topics like infection control, radiography, periodontal therapy, and dental technology advancements.
It is important to note that specific requirements and regulations may differ based on the country, state, or region where one intends to practice as a dental hygienist.
To become a dental hygienist, certain preparations are necessary. Here are the typical steps involved:
1. Education: Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. This is the basic educational requirement to move forward in pursuing a career as a dental hygienist.
2. Dental Hygiene Program: Apply and gain admission to an accredited dental hygiene program. These programs are offered at various universities, community colleges, or technical schools. The program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, resulting in an associate's or bachelor's degree in dental hygiene.
3. Prerequisites: Some dental hygiene programs may require completion of specific prerequisite courses before admission. These prerequisites may include subjects such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. Check the admission requirements of the programs you are interested in to see if any prerequisites apply.
4. Licensing Exam: After completing an accredited dental hygiene program, you need to pass a licensing exam to become a registered dental hygienist. The exam varies by state, so research and understand the specific requirements of the state in which you intend to practice.
5. Licensure: Once you pass the licensing exam, apply for a dental hygienist license from the appropriate state dental board. The application process usually involves providing the necessary documentation, paying the required fees, and completing any additional state-specific requirements.
6. Continuing Education: Dental hygienists must maintain licensure through ongoing continuing education. This usually involves completing a certain number of continuing education credits or hours every few years as mandated by the state licensing board.
It's essential to note that the requirements and regulations may differ between states or countries. Researching the specific professional guidelines and regulations for your location is crucial for a successful career as a dental hygienist.