Dental Hygienist Facts
The impact of a dental hygienist’s work extends beyond the dental chair, influencing both the immediate well-being of individuals and the broader landscape of public health. With its numerous facets encompassing education, preventive care, and community service, a career in dental hygiene unfolds as a truly rewarding and fulfilling journey.
In this article, we will share some fun facts about dental hygienists. The dental hygiene career continues to be a fulfilling path for those seeking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Below we share many dental hygienist facts making it a rewarding profession.
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Fun Facts About Dental Hygienists
Dental hygiene is a rewarding career that helps improve the health of others. The dental hygienist facts below showcase the unique and creative ways to describe the essential role dental hygienists play in maintaining oral health and promoting dazzling smiles.
1. The Start of Dental Hygienists
In 1906, Dr. Alfred Fones, a dentist from Connecticut, is often credited as a pioneer in the development of dental hygiene as a profession. The dental hygiene profession began in the early 20th century. The concept of dental hygiene and the role of dental hygienists evolved in response to the need for better oral hygiene and preventive dental care.
2. The First Dental Hygiene Program
In connection to the previous dental hygienist facts, Dr. Alfred Fones introduced the term “dental hygienist” and established the first dental hygiene school in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1913. The school was initially called the Fones School of Dental Hygiene and is now part of the University of Bridgeport.
3. The Growth of Dental Hygienists in the United States
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are around 219,400 active dental hygienist positions held in the United States. The profession continues to grow rate with a prospect of 7%, while the average profession growth rate is 3%. These dental hygienist facts make the career very promising for the future.
4. They are Prevention Specialists
Dental hygienists emphasize preventive care and education, educating patients on proper oral health practices to prevent dental issues. They’re experts in gum health, monitoring and maintaining the health of the gums to ensure a strong foundation for beautiful smiles. Dental hygienists meticulously examine and clean teeth, looking for clues to solve and prevent dental issues.
5. Education Requirements Beyond the Degree
Dental hygienists typically need at least an associate’s degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program, which usually takes about two to three years. Dental hygienists must be licensed to practice in the state they work in.
Licensing requirements vary by state but typically include passing a written and clinical exam. Dental hygienists are required to engage in continuing education to stay updated with advancements in the field and maintain their licensure. This helps them provide the best possible care to their patients.
6. Collaboration with All Dental Specialists
Dental hygienists work closely with all dental professionals in order to provide the best care to their patients. This includes dentists and their specialties, orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, dental assistants, dental technicians, oral pathologists, and dental anesthesiologists.
It is important to collaborate with all dental professionals to ensure comprehensive oral care for their patients. They update dentists on patients’ oral health and assist in identifying any potential issues.
7. Multiple Dental Settings to Work In
There are several opportunities for dental hygienists to work in different settings outside the traditional dental office. The different environments dental hygienists can work in include specialty office practices, hospitals, community health clinics, public health settings, educational institutions, research and laboratories, correctional facilities, military and government agencies, and teledentistry organizations.
Each dental setting brings unique opportunities to dental hygienists and is a great option to expand your career.
8. American Dental Hygienist Association Partnership
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is a professional organization representing the interests of dental hygienists in the United States. It is the largest national organization representing the dental hygiene profession. The ADHA is dedicated to advancing the profession of dental hygiene and improving oral health by promoting education, research, and advocacy.
The ADHA advocates for dental hygienists across the United States and helps support the profession and its members. By being part of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, dental hygienists can connect with their professional community, stay informed about industry updates, and contribute to the advancement of dental hygiene practice and oral health nationwide.
9. Code of Ethics for Dental Hygienists
Along with many other medical professionals, dental hygienists follow a code of ethics. The code of Ethics emphasizes principles like professionalism, integrity, confidentiality, honesty, respect, and the importance of delivering high-quality care to patients. Dental hygienists are expected to adhere to these ethical principles and provide patient-centered care while maintaining the dignity and well-being of their patients.
10. Dental Hygienists Fight Systemic Diseases
Dental hygienists play a crucial role in the fight against systemic diseases through their focus on oral health and its interconnectedness with overall health. The mouth is a window into the body’s overall well-being, and many systemic health conditions manifest oral symptoms or are influenced by oral health.
These systemic diseases include diabetes, oral cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, and respiratory diseases.
Learn More Dental Hygienist Facts
Dental hygiene is a great career path that leads to a fulfilling career helping others. We hope these dental hygienist facts help expand your knowledge of the career. To learn more about the fun facts about dental hygienists, check out our articles below.
- Choosing Between a Dental Therapist vs Dental Hygienist
- Can Dental Hygienists do Botox
- Dental Hygienist Pros and Cons of the Career
Take our Should I Be A Dental Hygienist Quiz to see if this career is right for you!
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile Store for educational products and printables to help with oral hygiene in patients and improve your daily workflow. Some products even come with a customizable feature to support your dental office.
