{"id":691,"date":"2017-05-01T14:21:56","date_gmt":"2017-05-01T14:21:56","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.besthealthsciencedegree.com\/?page_id=691"},"modified":"2017-05-19T00:02:05","modified_gmt":"2017-05-19T00:02:05","slug":"what-is-the-difference-between-a-dental-assistant-and-a-dental-hygienist","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"http:\/\/www.besthealthsciencedegree.com\/faq\/what-is-the-difference-between-a-dental-assistant-and-a-dental-hygienist\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the Difference Between a Dental Assistant and a Dental Hygienist?"},"content":{"rendered":"
If you’re looking for a career in the dental field, you must be wondering, what is the difference between a dental hygienist and a dental assistant? What kind of schooling is required for both careers? What does each career entail? We will take a look at both of these careers in this article, providing you with the information necessary to discover a future in the dental field that is right for you.<\/p>\n
Assistants within the dental field do just as the name suggests; assist. They are the framework in which hygienists are able to do their work properly. These assistants perform preparatory and break-down duties in a dental office, including disinfecting, laying out instruments, obtaining dental records, handing instruments to the dentist; among many other tasks. Many assistants also perform x-rays, make teeth impressions, or perform minor dental tasks needed by the patient.<\/p>\n
There are many states that require that these assistants are state-licensed, but requirements for licensing may vary by state. When required to become state-licensed, you must usually complete a training program and pass a particular exam. Requirements and length of the training program may vary. Usually these programs can be completed in a year and require some form of clinical training.<\/p>\n
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a>, these types of assistants make an average of $17.76 per hour and $36,940 per year. Most jobs are acquired on an entry-level basis and job training can be done on the job.<\/p>\n A hygienist’s job is typically more independent and advanced. Necessary duties can include developing x-ray film, removing stains, plaque, or tartar from patients’ teeth, and polishing their teeth. These duties tend to be more complex than those performed by an assistant. They can administer anesthetics, make assessments about a patient’s conditions, and are usually not obligated to perform administrative tasks like assistants are.<\/p>\nWhat is a Dental Hygienist and What do they do?<\/h3>\n