Measuring Middle-Skills Gaps within the Finger Lakes Regional Economy

DENTAL HYGIENE & ASSISTING

A dental hygienist works in partnership with a dentist to meet the oral health needs of patients. Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of infection and provide preventative dental care. They also educate patients on ways to improve and maintain good oral health. Dental hygienists typically need an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. All states require dental hygienists to be licensed. Hygienists work in general dental practices and in specialty practices such as periodontics or pediatric dentistry. They also may be employed to provide dental hygiene services for patients in hospitals, nursing homes and public health clinics. A few of the typical responsibilities of a dental assistant include taking and developing x-rays, taking patient medical history, educating patients about oral hygiene, and assisting the dentist during a variety of treatment procedures. The American Dental Association indicates that most dental offices employ two or more dental assistants, so employment opportunities in this field are excellent.

HEALTH CARE

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