Dental hygienists work along side dentists to improve and maintain the oral health of their patients. The hygienist focuses primarily on the removal of both soft and hard deposits, including stains and plaque, from the surfaces of the teeth. Dental hygienists educate their patients in the practice of good oral hygiene. Further, they perform routine dental screenings, such as dental x-rays, as well as documenting potential problems for additional attention by the dentist.

All states require dental hygienists to be licensed in the state in which they practice. Licensing involves the completion, in all states but Alabama, of an accredited educational program, and, the successful completion of the written exam. There is also a clinical exam component that the candidate must pass. The majority of dental hygiene educational programs grant an associate's degree. Some, however, grant certificates, bachelor's or master's degrees, which are typically not required to work in private practice. Entrance to a program requires a high school diploma and usually college entrance test scores.

Employment for dental hygienists is projected to be excellent for years into the future. It is, in fact, one of the fastest growing occupations because of the increasing demand for dental services.