A pediatric dental hygienist job in New Jersey is a rewarding and fulfilling career. The job involves helping children maintain healthy and beautiful smiles by providing preventive dental care and education. Pediatric dental hygienists are responsible for providing preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic dental care for children. They also educate patients about proper oral hygiene and nutrition, and provide preventive care instructions to parents and guardians.
Education and Training
In order to become a pediatric dental hygienist, individuals must first complete a dental hygiene program from an accredited school. Programs usually take two to three years to complete and include courses in anatomy, physiology, dental materials, dental radiography, and dental pharmacology. After completing the program, individuals must obtain a license from the New Jersey Department of Health. Once licensed, they can work as a pediatric dental hygienist in the state.
Responsibilities
Pediatric dental hygienists are responsible for providing preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic dental care for children. They perform dental hygiene procedures such as cleaning, scaling, and polishing of teeth. They also take X-rays, examine teeth and gums, and apply topical fluoride and sealants. Additionally, they may provide patient education and instruction on proper oral hygiene habits. Pediatric dental hygienists may also be responsible for scheduling appointments and keeping patient records.
Work Environment
Pediatric dental hygienists work in a variety of settings, including private dental offices, hospitals, and public health clinics. They typically work in a clean, comfortable, and well-lit environment. In some cases, they may be required to travel to patients’ homes to provide services. Pediatric dental hygienists typically work full-time hours, but part-time and evening schedules may be available.
Salary and Job Outlook
The median salary for a pediatric dental hygienist in New Jersey is $52,000 per year. This figure can vary depending on experience, location, and employer. The job outlook for pediatric dental hygienists is positive, with employment expected to grow by 12% between 2014 and 2024. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations.
Finding a Job
When looking for a job as a pediatric dental hygienist, it is important to research potential employers. Many dental offices have websites that list job openings, or they may be found on job search websites. It is also important to make sure that the employer is licensed and has a good reputation. It is also wise to attend job fairs and networking events to make connections with potential employers.
Benefits of a Pediatric Dental Hygienist Job
A pediatric dental hygienist job offers numerous benefits. The job is rewarding and can provide a sense of satisfaction from helping children to maintain healthy and beautiful smiles. Additionally, the job provides flexible hours and offers a competitive salary. A pediatric dental hygienist job also provides the opportunity to work with a variety of people, which can be rewarding and enjoyable.
Conclusion
A pediatric dental hygienist job in New Jersey can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. The job involves helping children maintain healthy and beautiful smiles by providing preventive dental care and education. Individuals interested in becoming a pediatric dental hygienist must first complete an accredited program and obtain a license from the New Jersey Department of Health. The job outlook for pediatric dental hygienists is positive, with employment expected to grow by 12% between 2014 and 2024. A pediatric dental hygienist job offers numerous benefits, including a competitive salary and flexible hours.