{"id":3471,"date":"2024-05-13T09:33:38","date_gmt":"2024-05-13T13:33:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bridgeport.edu\/news\/?p=3471"},"modified":"2024-12-03T11:58:25","modified_gmt":"2024-12-03T16:58:25","slug":"should-i-become-a-dental-hygienist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bridgeport.edu\/news\/should-i-become-a-dental-hygienist\/","title":{"rendered":"Should I Become a Dental Hygienist? A Look at the Dental Hygienist Career"},"content":{"rendered":"

Like many careers in the healthcare industry, dental hygienist work is in high demand. In fact, the employment growth rate for dental hygienists<\/a> will grow seven percent by 2032<\/a>, faster than the average for all occupations.<\/p>\n

Due to the aging of the baby-boomer generation and the fact that people keep more of their original teeth in the 21st century than ever, this employment growth rate will result in an average of 16,400 job openings each year as workers transfer to different occupations or retire.<\/p>\n

This guide will cover everything you need to know about becoming a dental hygienist<\/a>, including the job responsibilities, educational requirements, salary expectations, and career outlook.<\/p>\n

So, if you\u2019re wondering, \u201cShould I become a dental hygienist?\u201d The answer awaits you below!<\/p>\n

What is a Dental Hygienist?<\/h2>\n

Dental hygienists examine patients for signs of oral diseases, such as gingivitis, and provide preventive care, including oral hygiene. They are trained dental professionals who remove dental plaque and tartar and educate patients about oral health.<\/p>\n

Dental hygienists also minimize patients\u2019 dental and gum disease while freeing up dentists’ time. In turn, dentists can dedicate more of their time to higher-level diagnoses and restorative dental treatment.<\/p>\n

Dental hygienists<\/a> are responsible for the following tasks and duties:<\/p>\n