Dental Hygienist
What is a Dental Hygienist?
Dental hygienists provide preventive oral health care under the supervision of a dentist.
Roles of a Dental hygienist
- Educate and counsel children and adults on dental health, plaque control, oral hygiene and nutrition
- Remove deposits and stains from teeth by scaling and root planning
- Assist in the prevention and control of dental caries (decay) and gum disease
- Select and use appropriate fluoride treatments and polish tooth restorations
- Expose, process and interpret dental X-rays
- Make impressions of patients' mouths for the construction of study model and mouth guards
- Select orthodontic bands (braces), and remove orthodontic wires and attachments
- Apply and remove periodontal packs
- Instruct patients on how to look after their teeth and mouth after operations
Career Opportunities
Dental hygienists are mainly employed with dentists working in private dental practices. There are some opportunities in community health centres, dental hospitals and regional clinics. It is a small occupation with good employment opportunities. However, there are limited training places available and competition is strong.
Qualifications Required
To become a dental hygienist you usually have to study dental hygiene at university. The degree courses are usually combined with dental therapy training. Assumed knowledge, in one or more of biology or chemistry are normally required. Entry is highly competitive, and there are strict quotas. You may need to sit selection tests and attend an interview.
Take high school courses in health, biology, chemistry, mathematics, speech and psychology.
Apply for work experience in a dental practice or community dental clinic
For more information visit:
http://www.dentalcareers.com.au/Content_Common/pg-Dental-Hygienist.seo
A comprehensive orientation program is provided for all new staff members with ongoing support.
Supervision Required
The Senior Dental officer provide clinical supervision for Dental hygienist . A comprehensive orientation program is provided for all new staff members with ongoing support.
What sort of person should I be?
- Have a high standard of ethics
- Have an interest in health care work
- Have a good sense of caring and sensitivity
- Enjoy interacting with people
Personal Requirements of a Dental Hygienist
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Able to perform precise and detailed work
- Good communication skills
- Interested in health care work
- Able to work as part of a team.
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