Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH) play a critical role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems. They work alongside dentists to provide patients with preventive dental care, such as teeth cleaning, fluoride treatment, and periodontal maintenance. In this article, we will discuss the duties and salary of Registered Dental Hygienists in Atlanta, GA.
Duties of Registered Dental Hygienists
The primary duty of a Registered Dental Hygienist is to provide preventive dental care to patients. They use a variety of tools and techniques to remove plaque and tartar buildup from teeth, polish teeth, and apply fluoride treatments to help prevent cavities.
RDHs also perform periodontal maintenance procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to treat gum disease. They may also take dental x-rays and assist dentists in other procedures, such as fillings or extractions.
Another important duty of RDHs is to educate patients on how to maintain good oral health. They may provide instruction on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as advice on healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices that can impact oral health.
RDHs must also keep detailed records of patient care, including dental history, examination findings, and treatment plans. They may also communicate with other healthcare professionals, such as dentists or primary care physicians, to coordinate care for their patients.
Salary of Registered Dental Hygienists in Atlanta, GA
The salary of a Registered Dental Hygienist in Atlanta, GA, can vary depending on several factors, including experience, education, and the employer. According to data from Salary.com, the average annual salary for a Registered Dental Hygienist in Atlanta, GA, is $78,901.
Factors that can influence the salary of an RDH include their experience in the field, the size and reputation of the dental practice they work for, and their location. RDHs who have been in practice for a long time and who have a strong track record of success may be able to command higher salaries.
Job Outlook for Registered Dental Hygienists in Atlanta, GA
The job outlook for Registered Dental Hygienists in Atlanta, GA, is generally positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow by 6% between 2019 and 2029.
As the population ages and becomes more aware of the importance of oral health, the demand for preventive dental care is expected to increase. This is likely to lead to an increase in the demand for Registered Dental Hygienists.
Skills Required for Registered Dental Hygienists
To be a successful Registered Dental Hygienist, individuals must have strong interpersonal and communication skills. They must be able to communicate effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals, such as dentists or dental assistants.
Other important skills for RDHs include:
- Manual dexterity: RDHs must be able to use their hands to perform dental procedures, such as cleaning teeth and taking x-rays.
- Attention to detail: They must be able to carefully review dental records and diagnostic test results to identify potential dental issues.
- Problem-solving skills: RDHs must be able to identify and address dental issues in a timely and effective manner.
- Physical stamina: They may spend long periods of time standing or bending over patients, and must have the physical stamina to perform their job duties.
Education and Experience Required for Registered Dental Hygienists
To become a Registered Dental Hygienist, individuals must first earn an associate’s degree in dental hygiene from an accredited college or university. This typically requires two years of study, including courses in anatomy, physiology, and periodontology.
After completing their degree, RDHs must pass a licensing exam to practice in their state. They may also choose to pursue additional certifications or advanced degrees to enhance their skills and qualifications.
Many RDHs gain experience through on-the-job training or internships. Some may also choose to specialize in a specific area of dental hygiene, such as pediatric dentistry or periodontology.
In addition to education and experience, RDHs must also maintain certain personal characteristics to be successful in their field. They must be detail-oriented, empathetic, and able to work well under pressure. They must also have a passion for helping others and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient care.
Registered Dental Hygienists play a vital role in maintaining the oral health of patients. They provide preventive dental care and work alongside dentists to identify and address potential dental issues. The average annual salary for an RDH in Atlanta, GA, is $78,901, although this can vary depending on several factors. The job outlook for RDHs in Atlanta, GA, is positive, with employment projected to grow by 6% between 2019 and 2029.
To be a successful RDH, individuals must have strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as manual dexterity and attention to detail. They must also have the physical stamina to perform their job duties and be committed to providing the highest standards of patient care.