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A Dental Hygienist performs minor dental procedures and assessments on clients. You might work at an oral health clinic, a dental practice or other dental service. Dental Hygienists conduct teeth cleaning and plaque removal procedures and may offer advice on preventative care. You’ll work closely with dentists and other oral health professionals.
Dental Hygienists should have excellent attention to detail and strong personal skills. It’s important that you can communicate well with clients and listen to their concerns. Dental Hygienists will deal with many patients each day so you’ll need to be organised and have good time management skills.
There are 5 courses available for people who want to become a Dental Hygienist.
Possible job outcomes:
The HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting is for experienced dental assistants who are ready to take their career to the next level. This nationally recognised qualification helps you develop an advanced skill set that includes dental radiology, infection controls and sterilisation methods, sterilised stock control, anaesthesia and conscious sedation, business administration, oral health programs, fluoride treatments, construction of dental appliances, patient records management, using medical terminology, and much more. Enquire now for the list of study units, dental career outcomes, and enrolment centres near you..
Average duration: 12 months.
Are you an experienced dental assistant wanting to specialise in radiography work? Try the HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Dental Radiography). This nationally recognised qualification builds on your existing skills and knowledge and teaches you how to take dental x-rays and produce specific images according to the instructions of the dentist. The course covers: principles of radiation biology and how they apply to dentistry, exposing radiographic images, sterilising tools and equipment, on-the-job safety, using correct medical terminology, assisting with advanced dental procedures requiring anaesthesia and conscious sedation, business administration skills. Enquire now for entry requirements, dental radiology career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates..
The Bachelor of Oral Health provides students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in oral health care. Focusing on dental hygiene and dental therapy, it covers key areas such as preventive dentistry, oral health promotion, and clinical dental care for diverse communities. This course combines theoretical learning with hands-on clinical experience, preparing graduates to provide holistic oral health services, promote dental health education, and work effectively in various dental care settings. Emphasis is placed on patient-centred care and ethical professional practice..
Average duration: 3 years.
Become a dental hygienist with the 10926NAT Advanced Diploma of Oral Health (Dental Hygiene). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to advise patients on good dental health practices and deliver a range of treatments including teeth whitening. Competencies include: taking clinical photographs, taking impressions and constructing models, using fluoride and chemotherapeutic agents, using dental instruments, diagnosing dental health issues, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, dental hygienist competencies, and course availabilities near you..
Average duration: 24 months.
The Dual Certificate III in Dental Assisting & Certificate IV in Dental Assisting (Oral Health Specialisation) combines two dental qualifications for students seeking a career in Dental Assistance with specialist oral health knowledge. Students will learn how to implement and monitor infection prevention and control policies and procedures, implement an individualised oral hygiene program as well as assist with dental radiography..
Average duration: 18 months.
In Australia, a full time Dental Hygienist generally earns $1,440 per week ($74,880 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This industry has seen an increase in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 1,300 people working as a Dental Hygienist in Australia compared to 1,100 five years ago. Dental Hygienists may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If this career interests you, consider enrolling in a Dual Certificate III in Dental Assisting and Certificate IV in Dental Assisting with Oral Health Promotion Specialisation. This course will give you the skills to assist with dental procedures and prepare individualised oral hygiene programs for your clients.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within dentistry. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Dentistry
Dental Assistant
$1,150 weekly pay
Dental Lab Assistant
Dental Nurse
Dental Technician
Oral Health Therapist
$1,440 weekly pay
Prosthetic Technician
Treatment Coordinator
$1,350 weekly pay
Dental Hygienist
Dental Prosthetist
$1,550 weekly pay
Dentist
$2,800 weekly pay
Endodontist
$1,500 weekly pay
Orthodontist
Periodontist
Prosthodontist
Learn more about Dental Hygienist courses in your area.