About Dental Hygienist Careers in Detroit
Modern day dental care has come a long way. In the past 20 years, dental researchers have discovered ways to make our teeth brighter and whiter. The dentist is not just a place to go for cavity fillings; you can emerge with a whole new smile. Many of us are familiar with our dentist; however, do we really know what our dental hygienist does? In fact, you probably see your dental hygienist more than your dentist. The American Dental Association recommends two professional dental cleanings per year.
The dental hygienist specializes in healthy teeth. This is the person who cleans and polishes your teeth. Also, your dental x-rays are usually taken by the dental hygienist. The role of a dental hygienist is crucial in a dental office. The dentists has plenty of major problems to solve; thus, the dental hygienist focuses on the health of the teeth. Patients are urged to develop better habits. Oftentimes, the dental hygienist will stress the importance of reducing sugary drinks and candies. Cavities thrive in sugary environments. A major portion of time is spent educating patients. This instruction plays an important role in the fight against decay.
Roles and Responsibilities
The dental hygienist has multiple responsibilities. First, the dentist depends on this professional for support. Thus, a dentist needs a dental hygienist that is skilled and professional. Second, the patient expects and deserves excellent dental care.
Dental Hygienist Salaries in Detroit
Dental hygienist perform a very important job; thus, the compensation is quite good. Although they do not earn the salaries of a dentist, their compensation in Detroit is very competitive. For example, a skilled dental hygienist in Detroit typically earns between $55,000 to $78,000 per year. Of course, experience plays a crucial part in the exact salary. Salaries close to six figures are possible for highly skilled and experienced dental hygienists. The average annual salary for Dental Hygienists across the state of Michigan is $60,310.
Figures courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment & Wages database.
Educational Requirements
A dental hygiene degree is required before being employed as a dental hygienist in Detroit. In addition, the degree must be at least an associate’s degree. State laws state the degree must come from an accredited institution in dental hygiene. Also, every dental hygienist must be licensed in the state.
Job Outlook
The availability of jobs in dental hygiene are good. In fact, the jobs available will increase substantially. The graying of America is going to introduce mass numbers of patients into the dental industry. More seniors will require preventative dental services for longer periods than before. Thus, the next decade will be an excellent time of job growth for dental hygienists.