Should I Become A Dental Hygienist?

Did you know that there are 221,000 dental hygienists in the United States? We are here to outline what a dental hygienist is, what their role involves, and the advantages of following the career path.

What is a Dental Hygienist?

A registered dental hygienist plays an essential role in providing oral health care and preventative treatment. They will work alongside a dental specialist or a dentist to provide therapeutic services and offer oral hygiene tips.

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

One of the main duties of a dental hygienist is to provide preventative dental care, which includes:

Removing plaque and tartar
Taking dental x-rays
Examine for signs of oral disease
Removing stains
Use fluoride to protect teeth
Advise dentists of potential dental issues

In addition to all the above, they will also offer their advice on following a proper oral hygiene routine. This may include explaining the different types of toothbrushes, flossing techniques, or how maintaining a good diet is essential for your oral health.

What Are the Advantages of Being a Dental Hygienist?

Following a career path to becoming a dental hygienist is an attractive choice for anyone who sees themselves in a hands-on role that helps people maintain excellent oral health. Here are some more reasons why this career may be a great choice:

Competitive Salary

One of the biggest questions people ask when considering a new career is your salary expectations. While your salary will depend on your location and experience, the average median salary for a dental hygienist is $74,820 per year.

Flexible Work Schedule

A concern for many people is whether they will be able to have a good work-life balance. The great thing about being a dental hygienist is that you can choose to work full-time or part-time. Many dental hygienists work just a few days a week to fit their working hours around their personal life.

Improve the Health of Others

If you’re looking for a role where you can offer services that can improve people’s oral health, this would be a great option. When a patient has poor oral health, it can lead to serious oral health problems. A dental hygienist’s rewarding role will directly impact others’ health and help put a smile back on their faces!

Yellow Teeth FAQs

How do I get rid of yellow teeth?

‍Professional teeth whitening treatments, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks can help remove yellow stains.

Why are my teeth yellow even though I brush?

‍Yellow teeth despite brushing can be due to factors like genetics, aging, diet, smoking, or certain medications. Thin enamel or persistent plaque can also contribute.

Are yellow teeth permanent?

‍Yellow teeth are not necessarily permanent. Professional whitening treatments and maintaining good oral hygiene can often restore whiteness.

What color are healthy teeth?

‍Healthy teeth typically range from white to light yellow. The natural shade can vary based on genetics and enamel thickness.

Can teeth turn white again naturally?

‍Teeth can become whiter naturally with proper oral hygiene, avoiding staining foods, and using whitening toothpaste, but professional treatments are more effective.

How do you rebuild enamel?

‍Rebuilding enamel involves using fluoride toothpaste, consuming enamel-strengthening foods, and avoiding acidic foods and drinks that erode enamel.

Does vaping stain teeth?

‍Yes, vaping can stain teeth due to the nicotine and other chemicals present in the vapor, leading to yellow or brown discoloration.

What vitamin deficiency causes yellow teeth?

‍A deficiency in vitamin D or calcium can affect enamel health, potentially leading to yellowing teeth.

Can yellow teeth be white again?

‍Yes, yellow teeth can often be whitened with professional treatments, proper oral care, and avoiding staining substances.

Are yellow teeth permanent?

‍No, yellow teeth are not necessarily permanent. Whitening treatments and good oral hygiene can help restore their natural color.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing an Uneven Smile

What causes an uneven smile?

An uneven smile can be caused by various factors, including misaligned teeth, a crooked jaw, aging, facial paralysis (e.g., Bell’s Palsy), stroke, trauma, smoking, and conditions like torticollis. Understanding the cause is key to determining the right treatment.

Can an uneven smile affect my dental health?

Yes, an unaligned smile can lead to dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty in cleaning teeth. Misalignment can also cause discomfort while chewing and affect the overall health of your teeth and gums.

What are my options to correct an uneven smile?

Treatment options for an uneven smile include clear braces, Invisalign, traditional braces, and, in some cases, surgery. The best option depends on the severity of the misalignment and your specific needs, which a dental professional can help you determine.

How long does it take to fix an uneven smile with braces or Invisalign?

The duration of treatment varies based on the severity of the misalignment and the type of treatment chosen. Clear braces and Invisalign typically take between 12 to 24 months, while traditional braces may take longer for more complex cases.

When should I seek professional help for my uneven smile?

You should consult a dentist if you notice significant changes in your smile, experience pain or discomfort, or find it difficult to chew properly. Early intervention can prevent further dental issues and ensure the best treatment outcome.