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One of the most important attributes on your face is your teeth. More specifically, your smile is one of the most important forms of communication, verbal or nonverbal, that often affect your overal interaction between you and others. People eagerly spend thousands of dollars and endure countless cumbersome procedures to perfect that smile, which is why the dental profession is always in high-demand. One popular dental profession is that of a hygienist. Dental hygienists are oral health professional who treat and prevent oral diseases and educate patients on proper hygiene. Hygienists clean patient's teeth, remove potentially harmful stains, plaque, bacteria, as well as hard and soft deposits. They also apply cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides. In addition to those duties, they also take and develop dental X-rays. In some states, hygienists oversee anesthetics, carve filling materials, and place temporary fillings. Still not convinced that this career might be for you? Here are some great reasons to consider dental hygiene as a career.

Ample opportunity for employment and growth - According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), by 2014, the demand for dental hygienists will grow exponentially. With dentists' increased workloads, more hygienists will be needed to perform dental care, such as cleaning, freeing the dentist to devote time to more profitable procedures. Great compensation - The average pay for a dental hygienist, according to BLS, is $28.05 an hour.

Less daunting educational requirements - Most medical occupations mandate at least eight years of education. You can become a dental hygienist with as little as an associate's degree. You must then pass both a written and clinical examination. The American Dental Association's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations administers the written examination, which is accepted by all states and the District of Columbia.

Versatile profession - Dental hygienists may obtain further training and become involved in research, teaching, or the administration of dental hygiene educational programs.

Cosmetic dentistry is popular - Repairing chipped and rotten teeth and closing gaps are some of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures. People are also getting their teeth whitened and avoiding unattractive silver for cavities. There is also a need to for proficiency in applying veneers, gold and even platinum grills. - adrienne gadling and terry shropshire

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