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One of the fastest growing jobs as per a report of the United States Department of Labor is that of a dental hygienist. The report predicts that this trend will continue at least for the next decade. In case you are thinking of switching jobs or your career stream altogether, then you should consider taking up the job of a dental hygienist. The pay is good and the job profile allows you to keep flexible hours. You may have to do some additional schooling, but you will be able to recover any extra costs that you incur.
Let us take a look at the job profile in detail and help you decide whether it is the right profile for you. If you have not completed high school, you may have to. After that, you require at least an associate degree in the field of dental hygiene. This is possible by joining a community college or a trade school, where you will be taught biology, anatomy and chemistry besides other subjects. After you earn your degree, you will be required to sit for a clinical and written test. Once you clear both the tests you will get you license and be allowed to practice as a dental hygienist.
You job profile is that of cleaning patients’ teeth and removing stains, besides teaching patients the basics of dental hygiene. You will usually work at a dentist’s clinic and in some states, you are allowed to take x-rays and administer anesthesia to patients.
You can start off at a rate of $20 per hour and advance to $40 per hour if you work as a clinician and perform additional duties. You can also become eligible for paid vacation and dental benefits.
The growth prospects are bright, because there is an ever-increasing need for teaching patients about dental care and hygiene.
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