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Career Tips & Advice

3 Things to Consider Before Becoming a Dental Hygienist

Concorde Staff

Concorde Staff

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Updated July 4, 2018. The information contained in this blog is current and accurate as of this date.
Dental hygienist providing dental care to patient

So you're thinking about becoming a dental hygienist? Have you ever searched for a "dental hygiene program near me," but still aren't sure if it's the right choice? Let's take a closer look at this growing profession!

A career in dental hygiene has many rewarding aspects, which include job security, flexibility in work schedule, and the satisfaction of knowing you are helping individuals in need.

What are the requirements for becoming a dental hygienist?

If you are considering a dental hygiene program, you'll want to know the requirements set forth by your state. Look for an accredited dental hygiene program and the amount of time it takes to complete a respective program. With the dental hygiene program at Concorde, you can earn your associate's degree in as few as 17 months*.

Our program is a combination of classroom and clinical-based learning. Licensure is required to practice as a dental hygienist in the United States.

Is Dental Hygiene a Good Career?

Before deciding whether an educational and career path in dental hygiene is right for you, it is important to take a realistic look at the career.

One of the main benefits of a career in dental hygiene is job security. The dental hygiene field is growing rapidly, as are opportunities for employment. In fact, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 20 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The demand for dental services will increase as the population ages and as research continues to link oral health to overall health. New technological advances in dentistry are changing the field, but the career itself isn't going away any time soon. This career is ideal for someone who appreciates routine and consistency in their work.

What it's like to be a dental hygienist?

Before investing in a dental hygiene program, you must check your own personal motivations. Why do you want to become a dental hygienist? Many folks interested in this career report wanting to "help people."

The reality is that many individuals come to a dental office full of anxiety. Children and other special populations may be uncomfortable while under your care. Taking an honest look at the profession before applying to a program will ensure that you will not have any surprises once in the field.

Want to hear from a recent grad? Check out this recent blog spotlight interview with alumna Jenna Oxley a graduate from Concorde's Dental Hygiene program in Dallas.

Becoming a Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist working in teeth

 

How To Become a Dental Hygienist

If this is a field that seems a good fit for you and your personality, it might be time to check out Concorde's dental hygiene program. If you're not in the area, we also offer an online B.S. in Dental Hygiene program that also takes as little as 17 months* to complete!  Reach out to us today!

 

Interested In How To Become a Dental Hygienist?

Click here to explore Concorde Dental Hygienist Programs near you!

 

*Program lengths vary by location and Concorde cannot guarantee salary or employment.

Take The Next Step Towards a Brighter Future

Interested in learning more about our Dental Hygiene program? We have a Concorde representative ready to talk about what matters most to you. Get answers about start dates, curriculum, financial aid, scholarships and more!

  1. Program length may be subject to change dependent on transfer credits and course load. Please refer to current course catalog for more information. Concorde does not guarantee admittance, graduation, subsequent employment or salary amount.

  2. Professional certification is not a requirement for graduation, may not be a requirement for employment nor does it guarantee employment.

  3. Financial aid is available to those who qualify but may not be available for all programs. Concorde does not guarantee financial aid or scholarship awards or amounts.

  4. Clinical hour requirements and delivery may vary by campus location and may be subject to change. Concorde does not guarantee clinical site assignments based upon student preference or geographic convenience; nor do clinical experiences guarantee graduation, post-clinical employment or salary outcomes.

  5. Registration and certification requirements for taking and passing these examinations are not controlled by Concorde, but by outside agencies, and are subject to change by the agency without notice. Therefore, Concorde cannot guarantee that graduates will be eligible to take these exams, at all or at any specific time, regardless of their eligibility status upon enrollment.

  6. Externships are a non-paid in-person learning experience, whose length and location may be subject to change. Concorde does not guarantee externship placement, graduation, post-externship employment or salary outcomes.