Even though U.S. Department of Labor records a yearly median salary of $68,250 per year, the total amount a dental hygienist makes can vary according to experience.

A dental hygienist in New Hampshire will generate the greatest salary in this profession; approximately $74,000 each year. Paying an income between $65,000 and $67,000 are Idaho, Utah, and Maine. In the year 2008 the state of Michigan paid out the lowest salary for a dental hygienist at $59,200 annually. They work mostly in dental office groups followed by a doctor's office. Outpatient care centers, and medical hospitals are the industries that make use of the highest quantity of dental hygienists. Of such industries, outpatient care centers commonly give the a wage of $68,980 which is the largest.

Numbers of hours worked weekly or total work experience did not play a factor. In actuality, 90 % of experienced dental hygienists in the United States make $93,000 annually.

The task that the dental hygienist performs may vary in accordance with state. In most cases, some of their duties includes teaching patients oral cleanliness, providing preventive dental hygiene, examination of patient gums and teeth and recording oral problems and cleaning teeth. Administering local anesthetics, filling procedures, and removing stitches are allowed in certain states, however in most this is reserved for the dentist.

Many people like this profession because of the flexible scheduling. Some work full or part time as well as other work shifts through the week. Since many dentists hire hygienist on a part-time basis, often a couple days weekly, this enables them to work at other jobs or pursue educational or other goals

Somebody that wants to be a dental hygienist needs to take classes in chemistry, biology, and math. You will need to be certified and complete high school and some college in order to be a dental hygienist.

While some prerequisites may for dental hygiene courses can vary from state to state, a degree from an approved dental hygiene school along with a state license is needed to practice as a dental hygienist.

Given that they will constantly be in contact with dentists, patients, in addition to their families a dental hygienist should be able to get along with others.

Good communication skills and a likeable personality are good traits to own as well. Hygienists will have to possess good manual dexterity since they're required to use sometimes fragile and sharp dental instruments in the mouths of patients.