Saturday, November 14, 2009

From dental assistant to dental hygienist?

I am what one would called a displaced worker (laid off). I am looking into dental assisting since it's only a one year diploma program. The question is, someday I want to be a hygienist. Are there any assistant to hygienist transition programs? Or would I just have to go back to school full time for dental hygiene?

From dental assistant to dental hygienist?
Dental Assisting and dental hygiene are two completely different occupations. You would have to take two separate programs.


The benefit of taking the dental assisting program first is that you will gain a lot of knowlege about the dental practice including terminology, radiographs, techniques and instruments used, etc. This knowledge will definately help you in the dental hygiene program. There are many dental assistants who switch into dental hygiene (more money).
Reply:A Dental Assistant can be trained by a Dentist.


To become a Dental Hygienist you need at least 2 years in an accredited Dental Hygiene College program. Many hygiene programs have certain college class requirements before you can be considered a candidate for acceptance into their program i.e. chemistry, biology, English etc.


Check with your Dentist...maybe he/she is looking for a people friendly ,responsible, smart person who wants to work and learn to assist him. Or maybe the Dr. knows of another office who does. Or dive right into college with the focus on being accepted into a Dental Hygiene Program like I did. But find out early what you need to be studying...not all college advisors know this. If you can find a Dental Hygiene School near you find out what they recommend. Good Luck!
Reply:While dental assistants can be trained by dentists, some states require more than that in order to practice dental assisting, which includes taking/processing xrays and impressions. While a diploma says 'I took a class', if you're certified or licensed (if applicable in your state), the entry-level salary is higher...





Check with www.danb.org to see what's required for your state for both dental assisting, and check with your state dental board to see what's required for dental hygiene.





In either case, make sure the courses are approved and recognized by your state's education department.





Good luck!





:)


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