Choosing the Right Path for Dental Health Careers: Dental Hygienist vs Dentist

As a high school junior, making informed decisions about your future career paths is crucial. If you are considering a career in dental health, you might be wondering about the educational paths to become a dental hygienist or a dentist. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision.

Paths to Becoming a Dental Hygienist

If you aspire to become a dental hygienist, there are several educational routes you can take to achieve your goals.

Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene

This is the most common path for aspiring dental hygienists and typically takes about two years of study. During your program, you will delve deep into various aspects of dental hygiene and learn about:

Dental anatomy Periodontology Radiography Patient care

Look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) to ensure they meet the highest standards of education and training.

Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene (Optional)

Certain colleges offer a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene, which can provide more advanced training and better career advancement opportunities. This four-year program typically offers a more comprehensive curriculum, possibly leading to greater employment prospects and higher salaries.

Prerequisite Courses

High school courses in biology, chemistry, and health sciences will greatly benefit you in college. In your college years, you may need to take additional courses such as:

Anatomy Microbiology Nutrition Pharmacology

Licensure Requirements

After completing an accredited program, you will need to pass both the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and a state or regional clinical examination to become licensed.

Paths to Becoming a Dentist

For those interested in becoming dentists, the educational path is slightly more extensive.

Bachelor’s Degree

Most dental schools require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree, often focusing on sciences. Common majors include:

Biology Chemistry Health Sciences

In addition to the bachelor’s degree, you will need to complete a series of prerequisite courses, which typically include:

Biology General Chemistry Organic Chemistry Physics Mathematics

Dental Admission Test (DAT)

Passing the Dental Admission Test (DAT) is mandatory. This exam evaluates your academic ability and scientific knowledge, which are crucial for success in dental school.

Dental School

Attending an accredited dental school typically takes four years to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.

Licensure Requirements

After dental school, you must pass both the National Board Dental Examination and a state or regional clinical examination to practice as a dentist.

Additional Tips for Both Paths

To set yourself up for a successful career in dental hygiene or dentistry, consider the following additional tips:

Extracurricular Activities

Volunteer in healthcare-related organizations. Shadow dentists or dental hygienists to gain hands-on experience. Join science clubs and participate in relevant activities.

Networking and Mentorship

Connect with professionals in the field to gain valuable insights and guidance. Networking can provide you with both support and opportunities.

Research Programs

Look for colleges with strong dental hygiene or pre-dental programs that offer resources and support for aspiring dental professionals.

By following these paths and gaining relevant experience, you can successfully embark on a rewarding career in dental health.