Dental hygienists are dental care professionals that work in prevention rather than cure. A dentist’s job concentrates on teeth and gum related problems, along with checkups. A dental hygienist has a role in helping to prevent problems from arising.

Hygienist’s duties involve scaling and polishing teeth, and applying dental sealants.

Dental hygienists work in hospitals and in community dental services, but most frequently in general dental practice.
To apply or start training to become a dental hygienist in the UK, you would need 5 GCSE subjects graded A – C or equivalent, plus two A levels or a recognised dental nursing qualification.

To practice as a dental hygienist you need to have undertaken an appropriate course approved by the General Dental Council. The you must have legal registration with the GDC to practice:

General Dental Council
37 Wimpole Street
London
W1G 8DQ

Telephone: 020 7887 3800

The course is usually two years on a full-time basis and is offered by dental schools and also by Defence Dental Services. Subjects studied include anatomy and physiology, preventive dentistry, dental health education, dental pathology and the management and care of patients. Several dental schools offer courses combining dental hygiene and dental therapy.