Dental Hygienist--Career Q&A: Professional Advice and Insight

 What is it like to be a dental hygienist? In this Career Q&A video interview, Valerie Heywood talks about her career path, what she does on the job, and the keys to success in the dental hygienics. She also offers candid advice on breaking into the profession as well as insight into the industry's biggest challenges and how the field may change in the next ten years.

Length: 9 minutes

ORDER CODE: FFM-BVL133144

Copyright date: ©2017

Closed Captioned

Dental Hygienists: Main Duties and Responsibilities (00:34)
Valerie Heywood cleans patients' teeth, takes dental x-rays, performs periodontal screenings, and supports dental staff.

Dental Hygienists: Career Beginnings (00:37)
Heywood's mother introduced the idea of becoming a dental hygienist. She considered the two year associates program a short path to making better money.

Dental Hygienists: Keys for Success (00:46)
Successful hygienists need to be sympathetic, empathetic, and compassionate with patients. Be a team player.

Dental Hygienists: Education and Certification Requirements (00:39)
Hygienists need to earn an Associate's of Applied Science: Dental Hygiene degree, pass a board exam, obtain a certification in radiology and CPR, and continue education every two years. Pennsylvania allows hygienists to earn a license in local anesthesia.

Dental Hygienists: Workplace Atmosphere (00:54)
Heywood works eight hours a day, Monday through Friday in a private practice. Hygienists can work part-time or through a temp agency. The environment can be stressful, but spending time with patients is rewarding.

Dental Hygienists: Advice for Aspiring Pros (00:49)
Hygienists need to be able to do a difficult, dirty job without being judgmental. Visit a dental office, shadow a professional, or get a job as a dental assistant.

Dental Hygienists: Day on the Job (01:06)
Heywood typically sees 12 patients a day. She performs any necessary x-rays, cleans teeth, and assists the dentist during the exam. She provides home care as needed, cleans instruments, and assists at the front desk.

Dental Hygienists: Industry Goals and Services (00:49)
Dentistry's main goal is to provide good oral health. Hygienists help prevent and treat gingivitis and periodontitis through patient cleanings and education.

Dental Hygienists: Industry Challenges (00:49)
The biggest challenges for a hygienist are physical; use good ergonomics. Dental insurance provides low reimbursement which can prevent dentists from keeping a full-time hygienist on staff.

Dental Hygienists: Looking at the Future (01:44)
Heywood believes the industry will look similar to the present, but hygienists may expand their expertise and independence. Technology advancements will help make data recording and sharing more efficient