Dental Hygienists
Description OES Code: 32908
Perform dental prophylactic treatments and instruct groups and individuals in the care of the teeth and mouth.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $17.92
25th Percentile $22.51
50th Percentile $33.75
75th Percentile $40.42

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $12.63
25th Percentile $13.27
50th Percentile $28.81
75th Percentile $40.73

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Earnings can vary widely between areas. Education and work experience often determine salary levels.

Hours & Benefits
Most Dental Hygienists work part time - eight hours a day, usually two or three days a week. They often work for more than one dentist.

Fringe benefits usually include medical insurance, paid vacation and sick leave, especially for full time employees. Many employers provide retirement plans and discounts on dental work.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 17,300
Projected Employment 2008 24,400
Percent Change 1998-2008 41%
Separations 1998-2008 4,700

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 210
Projected Employment 2006 250
Percent Change 1999-2006 19%
Separations 1999-2006 40

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Dental Hygienists work in pleasant modern, well-lighted, heated, and ventilated surroundings that usually have the latest dental equipment. While most of the time Dental Hygienists work sitting down, they can still develop back and neck pain. Repetitive hand and wrist movements used in their work may cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Other hazards include exposure to infectious diseases and possible overdose of radiation from X-rays. Risks are minimized by using such safety gear as masks, safety glasses and special aprons. Important health protection in this occupation includes regular checkups and strict adherence to safety procedures for the use of X-ray equipment.

Advancement
Dental Hygienists advance primarily in expanded roles and greater responsibilities. With additional education and experience, they may specialize in areas such orthodontia. Some go into teaching. In government jobs, they may advance to Dental Hygienist Auditor or Consultant.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Employers recruit through newspaper ads, employee referrals, and schools. Telephone yellow pages list private employment agencies that specialize in placing medial and dental personnel in both temporary and permanent jobs.

For current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Dental Hygienists must be licensed in California, under the provisions of the Dental Practice Act, administered by the State Board of Dental Examiners. Applicants for licensing must have a minimum of a two-year degree from an accredited (American Dental Association) dental hygiene program. Dental Hygienists must also pass the National Board examination given by the Joint Commission on Dental Examinations and the practical examination given by the State Board. The license must be renewed every two years; 25 hours of continuing education is required.

Contact the California Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) for a list of the schools in California. Required background varies and may include courses in math, biology, and chemistry. The schools combine classroom instruction with clinical and laboratory work and include such courses as pharmacology, nutrition, anatomy, and physiology.

NOTE: There are more applicants than available training slots. Students often take college-level courses in general education and science for up to two years to improve their chances of acceptance into a dental hygiene program.

Skills & Other Requirements
Personal traits essential to the job are good judgment, patience, tact, ability to tolerate stress, and a genuine concern for people.

Dental Hygienists should be able to deal tactfully with people and stimulate interest and motivation to all age groups in the prevention of dental disease. They must pay close attention to detail and be able to follow instructions exactly.

The work requires good vision (may be corrected) and finger dexterity for close attention to detail and handling of sharp instruments. Constant work with other dental team members in a confined space is common. Important health protection in this occupation includes regular checkups and strict adherence to safety procedures for the use of X-ray equipment.

References
California Occupational Guide: #155

Related Occupation: Dental Assistants #27, Dental Laboratory Technicians #243, Dentists #377

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)