dental hygiene resume examples

11 Dental Hygienist Resume Examples And Templates for 2024

A Dental Hygienist excels in patient education, preventive care, and oral assessments. Highlight your expertise in cleaning techniques, patient communication, and knowledge of dental software on your resume. Showcase accomplishments like improved patient satisfaction scores or successful community outreach programs to stand out. Emphasize attention to detail and empathy to attract employers.

Table of Contents

Dental hygienist resume examples.

Explore additional Dental Hygienist resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Template #1: Dental Hygienist Resume Example

Template #2: pediatric dentist resume example.

Template #3: Dentist Resume Example

Template #4: Oral Health Therapist Resume Example

Template #5: Dental Laboratory Technician Resume Example

Template #6: dental assistant resume example.

Template #7: Endodontist Resume Example

Template #8: Prosthodontist Resume Example

Template #9: Dental Technician Resume Example

Template #10: Periodontist Resume Example

Template #11: Orthodontist Resume Example

Dental Hygienist Core Responsibilities

A Dental Hygienist plays a pivotal role in patient care, performing thorough oral examinations, cleaning teeth, and educating patients on oral hygiene. Key skills include technical proficiency in dental tools, strong communication for patient interaction, and problem-solving abilities to address oral health issues. This role bridges clinical operations and patient education, ensuring a seamless experience across departments. A well-structured resume effectively highlights these qualifications, showcasing a candidate's readiness to contribute to the organization’s overall patient care goals.

Common Responsibilities Listed on Dental Hygienist Resume

• Conducting dental cleanings and scaling procedures
• Performing oral health assessments and screenings
• Educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques
• Taking and developing dental radiographs (X-rays)
• Documenting patient care and treatment plans
• Applying preventive materials, such as sealants and fluoride
• Assisting dentists during examinations and procedures
• Managing patient records and scheduling appointments
• Staying updated on dental hygiene advancements
• Ensuring compliance with infection control protocols
• Providing support for dental health programs
• Collaborating with dental teams for comprehensive care

High-Level Resume Tips for Dental Hygienist Professionals

A well-crafted resume is crucial for Dental Hygienist professionals, as it often serves as the first impression a candidate makes on potential employers. In a competitive job market, your resume must not only capture attention but also effectively convey your skills and achievements in the field. It should reflect your expertise in oral health care, patient management, and teamwork, showcasing how you can contribute to a dental practice's success. This guide will provide practical and actionable resume tips specifically tailored for Dental Hygienist professionals, enabling you to present yourself as a standout candidate.

Top Resume Tips for Dental Hygienist Professionals

• Tailor your resume to match the job description, incorporating relevant keywords and phrases that reflect the specific requirements of the position.
• Highlight your relevant experience by listing your previous roles in reverse chronological order, emphasizing your duties and responsibilities as a Dental Hygienist.
• Quantify your achievements by including metrics such as the number of patients treated, patient satisfaction scores, or improvements in patient care you facilitated.
• Showcase your industry-specific skills, such as proficiency in digital radiography, patient education, infection control procedures, and knowledge of dental software.
• Include relevant certifications and licenses, such as a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) designation, to demonstrate your qualifications and commitment to the profession.
• Utilize a clean, professional format with clear headings and bullet points for easy readability, ensuring that important information stands out.
• Incorporate a professional summary at the beginning of your resume that encapsulates your experience, skills, and career objectives in just a few sentences.
• Don’t forget to include any continuing education courses or specialized training that showcases your dedication to staying current in the field.
• Proofread your resume thoroughly to eliminate any spelling or grammar errors, as attention to detail is critical in the dental profession.

By implementing these tips, you can significantly increase your chances of landing a job in the Dental Hygienist field. A targeted and polished resume will not only highlight your qualifications but also demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to providing exceptional patient care, making you a desirable candidate for potential employers.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Dental Hygienist

In the competitive field of dental hygiene, a well-crafted resume headline or title plays a crucial role in capturing the attention of hiring managers. A strong headline serves as a powerful first impression, allowing candidates to summarize their key qualifications, skills, and experience in one impactful phrase. It should be concise, relevant, and directly related to the job being applied for, ensuring that it resonates with the specific requirements of the position. By immediately conveying a candidate's unique value, an effective resume headline can set the stage for the rest of the resume and increase the likelihood of landing an interview.

Best Practices for Crafting Resume Headlines for Dental Hygienist

• Keep it concise—aim for one impactful sentence or phrase.
• Use keywords relevant to the dental hygiene field and the specific job description.
• Highlight your most significant qualifications or achievements.
• Tailor the headline for each application to reflect the employer's needs.
• Avoid jargon; use clear and straightforward language.
• Include specific skills that align with the role, such as patient care or preventive dentistry.
• Use action-oriented language that demonstrates your proactive approach.
• Make it visually distinct by using formatting like bold or italics if appropriate.

Example Resume Headlines for Dental Hygienist

Strong resume headlines.

Dedicated Dental Hygienist with 5+ Years of Experience in Patient Care and Preventive Dentistry

Certified Dental Hygienist Specializing in Periodontal Therapy and Patient Education

Results-Driven Dental Hygienist Committed to Enhancing Patient Comfort and Oral Health

Weak Resume Headlines

Dental Hygienist Looking for a Job

Experienced Professional in the Dental Field

The strong headlines are effective because they provide specific information about the candidate's experience and skills, immediately demonstrating their suitability for the role. They use relevant keywords and focus on what makes the candidate unique, appealing directly to hiring managers. In contrast, the weak headlines fail to impress due to their vagueness and lack of detail. They do not convey any meaningful information about the candidate’s qualifications or specific areas of expertise, making it difficult for hiring managers to gauge the applicant’s fit for the position.

Writing an Exceptional Dental Hygienist Resume Summary

A well-crafted resume summary is a crucial component for any Dental Hygienist seeking to make a strong impression on potential employers. This brief yet impactful section serves to quickly capture the attention of hiring managers by presenting a snapshot of the candidate's key skills, relevant experience, and notable accomplishments in the field. An effective summary not only highlights the candidate's qualifications but also aligns them with the specific requirements of the job they are applying for. By being concise and tailored, the resume summary can set the tone for the rest of the application, making it an essential element in the competitive job market of dental hygiene.

Best Practices for Writing a Dental Hygienist Resume Summary

• Quantify your achievements to showcase the impact of your work, such as the number of patients treated or improvements in patient satisfaction scores.
• Focus on specific skills relevant to dental hygiene, such as proficiency in periodontal therapy, patient education, and familiarity with dental software.
• Tailor your summary to align with the job description, incorporating keywords that reflect the employer's needs.
• Keep it concise, ideally between 2-4 sentences, to ensure clarity and maintain the reader's attention.
• Highlight any certifications or special training that set you apart from other candidates, such as advanced CPR certification or laser therapy training.
• Use action verbs to convey a proactive and positive approach to your work.
• Showcase your commitment to patient care and your ability to work collaboratively in a dental team environment.
• Consider including a brief statement about your career goals to demonstrate your ambition and direction in the field.

Example Dental Hygienist Resume Summaries

Strong resume summaries.

Dedicated Dental Hygienist with over 5 years of experience providing exceptional patient care, resulting in a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores. Proficient in periodontal therapy and patient education, with a strong commitment to promoting oral health in diverse communities.

Detail-oriented and certified Dental Hygienist with expertise in digital radiography and preventive care. Successfully contributed to a 30% reduction in patient wait times through efficient appointment scheduling and streamlined processes, enhancing overall clinic productivity.

Compassionate and skilled Dental Hygienist with a proven track record of treating over 2,000 patients annually. Recognized for implementing effective patient education programs that improved home care compliance by 40%, leading to better oral health outcomes.

Weak Resume Summaries

Experienced Dental Hygienist looking for a new position in a dental office. I have worked in the field for many years.

Dental Hygienist with knowledge of dental procedures and patient care. I am interested in helping patients maintain their oral health.

The strong resume summaries are effective because they provide specific, quantifiable achievements and demonstrate relevant skills that align with the role of a Dental Hygienist. They convey a clear image of the candidate's capabilities and commitment to patient care. In contrast, the weak summaries lack detail, specificity, and quantifiable results, making them too generic to capture the interest of hiring managers. These vague descriptions fail to highlight what makes the candidate a standout choice for the position.

Work Experience Section for Dental Hygienist Resume

The work experience section of a Dental Hygienist resume is a critical component that enables candidates to effectively showcase their technical skills and competencies in the field. This section not only illustrates the candidate's ability to provide high-quality dental care but also highlights their capacity to manage teams and collaborate with dental professionals. Furthermore, quantifying achievements and aligning experiences with industry standards are essential to convey the candidate's value to potential employers. By providing measurable outcomes and demonstrating proficiency in relevant technologies, candidates can set themselves apart in a competitive job market.

Best Practices for Dental Hygienist Work Experience

• Highlight specific technical skills relevant to dental hygiene, such as proficiency in digital radiography and periodontal care.
• Quantify achievements by including metrics, such as the number of patients treated or improvements in patient satisfaction scores.
• Emphasize collaboration with dental teams, showcasing experiences in working with dentists, assistants, and other healthcare professionals.
• Use action verbs to describe responsibilities and accomplishments, making statements more impactful.
• Tailor the work experience section to align with the job description, focusing on relevant experiences that match the employer's needs.
• Include continuing education and certifications to demonstrate commitment to professional development.
• Showcase leadership experiences, such as training new staff or leading patient education initiatives.
• Maintain a clear and organized format for readability, making it easy for hiring managers to scan the information.

Example Work Experiences for Dental Hygienist

Strong experiences.

• Successfully increased patient retention rates by 20% through personalized care and follow-up communication strategies.
• Implemented a new electronic health record system that improved patient documentation efficiency by 30%.
• Collaborated with a team of dentists and dental assistants to develop a community outreach program that provided free dental screenings to over 500 underserved individuals.
• Trained and mentored four new dental hygienists, enhancing team performance and patient care standards.

Weak Experiences

• Worked as a dental hygienist in various settings.
• Performed routine dental cleanings and procedures.
• Assisted with patient care and maintained cleanliness in the clinic.
• Attended some training sessions and workshops.

The examples provided are considered strong because they highlight specific achievements and measurable outcomes, demonstrating a direct impact on patient care and clinic efficiency. These experiences reflect a proactive approach and a commitment to excellence in the dental hygiene field. In contrast, the weak experiences lack specificity and quantifiable results, making them less compelling to potential employers. They fail to convey the candidate’s technical expertise or contributions effectively.

Education and Certifications Section for Dental Hygienist Resume

The education and certifications section of a Dental Hygienist resume plays a crucial role in demonstrating the candidate's academic background, relevant skills, and commitment to ongoing professional development. This section not only showcases the essential qualifications required for the role but also emphasizes any specialized training and industry-recognized certifications. By highlighting relevant coursework and certifications, candidates can significantly enhance their credibility and align their experiences with the expectations of potential employers, making a compelling case for their suitability for the dental hygienist position.

Best Practices for Dental Hygienist Education and Certifications

• Include only relevant degrees and certifications that pertain to dental hygiene.
• List the most recent and advanced qualifications first to showcase your highest achievements.
• Provide details about specialized training or coursework that enhances your expertise in specific areas of dental hygiene.
• Use clear and concise language to describe your educational background and certifications.
• Highlight any honors or distinctions received during your education to stand out.
• Keep the formatting consistent and professional to ensure readability and clarity.
• Incorporate any continuing education courses that demonstrate your commitment to staying updated with industry advancements.
• Consider including the accreditation status of your educational institutions to enhance credibility.

Example Education and Certifications for Dental Hygienist

Strong examples.

• A.A.S. in Dental Hygiene, XYZ Community College, 2021
• Licensed Dental Hygienist, State Board of Dental Examiners, 2021
• Certified in Local Anesthesia Administration, 2022
• Coursework: Periodontology, Radiology, and Preventive Dentistry

Weak Examples

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, ABC University, 2015
• CPR Certification (expired, 2019)
• High School Diploma, Generic High School, 2010
• Coursework: Introduction to Psychology (not relevant to dental hygiene)

The examples are considered strong because they directly align with the qualifications necessary for a dental hygienist position, demonstrating both relevant education and certifications that showcase the candidate's preparedness for the role. In contrast, the weak examples reflect qualifications that do not pertain to the dental hygiene field or are outdated, which may raise concerns about the candidate's current competence and commitment to the profession.

Top Skills & Keywords for Dental Hygienist Resume

In the competitive field of dental hygiene, having a well-crafted resume that highlights your skills is essential for standing out to potential employers. Skills not only reflect your technical proficiency but also showcase your ability to interact effectively with patients and colleagues. A robust resume will include both hard and soft skills, demonstrating your comprehensive expertise in dental hygiene practices and your aptitude for communication and patient care. By emphasizing these skills, you can illustrate your readiness to contribute to a dental practice and ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care.

Top Hard & Soft Skills for Dental Hygienist

Soft skills.

• Excellent communication skills
• Empathy and compassion
• Attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Time management
• Patient education and motivation
• Problem-solving abilities
• Team collaboration
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Organizational skills

Hard Skills

• Proficient in dental hygiene procedures
• Knowledge of dental anatomy and pathology
• Familiarity with dental software and technology
• Radiography and X-ray proficiency
• Infection control protocols
• Scaling and root planing techniques
• Proficient in dental charting
• Anesthesia administration
• Familiarity with periodontal treatments
• Ability to conduct oral health assessments

For further insights into effectively showcasing your skills and work experience , visit the designated links to enhance your resume's impact.

Stand Out with a Winning Dental Hygienist Cover Letter

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Dental Hygienist position at [Dental Practice Name] as advertised on [where you found the job listing]. With over [number] years of experience in dental hygiene and a passion for promoting oral health, I am confident in my ability to contribute positively to your team and provide exceptional care to your patients. My commitment to patient education and preventive care aligns perfectly with the values of your practice, and I am eager to bring my skills to [Dental Practice Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Employer], I successfully managed a diverse patient caseload while performing comprehensive dental cleanings, periodontal therapy, and patient assessments. My experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of various dental procedures and a solid foundation in the latest hygiene techniques. I take pride in my ability to build rapport with patients, helping them feel comfortable during their visits while emphasizing the importance of maintaining their oral health. I am also proficient in utilizing dental software for record-keeping and patient management, ensuring a smooth workflow within the practice.

I hold a [Dental Hygiene Degree] and am licensed to practice in [State/Region]. I am also committed to continuing education and have completed numerous hours of professional development to stay updated with the latest advancements in dental hygiene. I am particularly drawn to [Dental Practice Name] because of its reputation for excellence in patient care and community outreach. I am excited about the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment where I can contribute my knowledge and skills while furthering my professional growth.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and passion for dental hygiene can benefit [Dental Practice Name]. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and helping to enhance the oral health and overall well-being of your patients. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email] to schedule a discussion.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip]

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Dental Hygienist Resume

When applying for a position as a dental hygienist, your resume serves as a crucial first impression. It's essential to present your qualifications and experiences clearly and professionally. However, many candidates make common mistakes that can detract from their chances of landing an interview. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you create a polished and effective resume that showcases your skills and dedication to dental hygiene.

Using an Unprofessional Email Address : An email like "[email protected]" can come off as unprofessional. Create a straightforward email that includes your name.

Neglecting to Tailor the Resume : Sending out a generic resume can hurt your chances. Tailor your resume to each position by including relevant keywords and experiences that match the job description.

Overloading with Jargon : While it's important to demonstrate your knowledge of dental hygiene, using too much technical jargon can confuse hiring managers. Strike a balance between professionalism and clarity.

Ignoring Formatting Consistency : Inconsistent fonts, colors, or spacing can make your resume look unprofessional. Ensure that your formatting is uniform throughout the document for a clean appearance.

Omitting Key Certifications : As a dental hygienist, certifications like CPR or state licensure are crucial. Make sure to prominently feature these qualifications so they stand out.

Focusing Too Much on Job Duties Instead of Achievements : Instead of listing what you did in previous roles, highlight your achievements and contributions. Use metrics where possible to show your impact, such as "increased patient retention by 20%."

Including Irrelevant Information : Avoid cluttering your resume with unrelated work experience or personal details. Stick to information that directly pertains to the dental hygiene field and your professional competencies.

Not Proofreading : Spelling and grammatical errors can undermine your professionalism. Always proofread your resume multiple times and consider having someone else review it for errors.

As a Dental Hygienist, your role is vital in promoting oral health and preventing dental diseases. Key responsibilities include performing teeth cleanings, taking X-rays, educating patients on oral hygiene practices, and supporting dentists in various procedures. Staying updated on the latest dental technologies and techniques is crucial for providing the highest level of care to your patients.

In addition to clinical skills, strong communication and interpersonal abilities are essential for building relationships with patients and making them feel comfortable during their visits. Attention to detail and a commitment to patient education will not only enhance patient satisfaction but also contribute to better oral health outcomes.

As you reflect on your career and consider opportunities for growth, it’s important to ensure your resume stands out. We encourage you to review your Dental Hygienist resume and make any necessary updates to highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements effectively.

Utilize available resources to enhance your application materials. Explore resume templates to find a design that suits your style, or use the resume builder for a streamlined process to create a professional resume. Check out resume examples to gain inspiration from successful Dental Hygienists and consider crafting a compelling introduction with our cover letter templates . Take action today and make your resume shine!

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• • Implemented a new patient education program that increased patient compliance with oral hygiene practices by 40%.
• • Collaborated with dentists to develop personalized treatment plans, reducing patient recovery time by 30%.
• • Led the integration of digital radiography, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient throughput by 20%.
• • Managed inventory and procurement of dental hygiene supplies, cutting costs by 15% while ensuring quality.
• • Spearheaded a community outreach program to promote oral health, reaching over 500 community members.
• • Performed dental cleanings and examinations for an average of 30 patients per week, maintaining a 99% patient satisfaction rate.
• • Introduced a new sterilization technique that increased equipment lifespan by 20%, saving the clinic significant expenses.
• • Participated in the development of an oral health awareness campaign, which led to a 10% increase in annual patient visits.
• • Provided training to new hires on best practices in dental hygiene, ensuring high standards of care.
• • Delivered comprehensive dental hygiene care to 20-25 patients daily, focusing on preventive care and patient education.
• • Contributed to a 15% increase in patient retention through effective communication and follow-up care strategies.
• • Played a key role in a project to redesign the patient waiting area, improving patient comfort and clinic aesthetics.

5 Dental Hygienist Resume Examples & Guide for 2025

Dental hygienists play a crucial role in promoting oral health by performing cleanings, educating patients on proper dental care, and assisting dentists during procedures. When crafting your resume, focus on highlighting your experience with patient assessments, familiarity with dental software, and your ability to work effectively in a team. Consider adding skills such as excellent communication, attention to detail, and proficiency in using dental tools and technologies. Including examples of how you improved patient satisfaction or contributed to a reduction in appointment times can effectively illustrate your impact in previous roles.

All resume examples in this guide

Traditional

Written by Volen Vulkov

Resume Guide

Resume Format

Resume Experience

Hard & Soft Skills

Certifications & Education

Resume Summary/Objective Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

Dental hygienists are masters at crafting the perfect dental impression, but when it comes to their resumes, even the most skilled can sometimes falter in making themselves shine on paper.

With more than 200,000 dental hygienists working to brighten smiles across the U.S., having a resume that sparkles is more crucial than ever to stand out from the crowd.

Are you ready to give your dental hygienist resume a glow-up that’s as brilliant as a freshly polished set of pearly whites? Let’s dive into how you can dazzle hiring managers and really sink your teeth into your next career opportunity:

• Balance hard and soft skills. Combining your clinical prowess with your top-notch patient rapport and teamwork abilities. Show employers you're as good with people as you are with a scaler!
• Targeting your resume to the particular job offer by highlighting your most valuable and relevant qualifications. Highlight the skills and experiences that align directly with what they're looking for.
• Improving work experience entries beyond simply describing job duties to enhance their effectiveness.
• Employing quantitative data as evidence of stated skills.
• Utilizing keywords and formatting to improve recognition of well-aligned skills and qualifications.

This resume writing guide, including examples and pro tips, will help you overcome these challenges and ensure that your dental hygienist resume gains attention and makes a flawless impression on prospective employers.

For additional related dental positions, check out the following resume-writing guides:

• Pediatric dental assistant resume
• Orthodontic dental assistant resume
• Certified dental assistant resume
• Dental nurse resume
• Dental hygienist cover letter

How to Format a Dental Hygienist Resume

You need more than a bright smile to stand out among the competition for dental hygienist jobs. To get noticed, you’ll need to utilize every possible element of your resume to grab the attention of hiring managers, including your resume's formatting.

Besides ensuring your resume appears polished and professional, it can help or hinder your ability to get noticed by employers.

Dental offices increasingly use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to find qualified hygienists.

ATS analyzes resume text, looking for exact keywords or phrases corresponding to those in a job description. Employers use these systems to quickly sort and prioritize resumes to consider the most qualified candidates.

Review these best practices for ATS-optimized formatting on your dental assistant resume:

• Document type: Doc or PDF files are typical for resumes and most easily analyzed by ATS. PDF files, like those produced using the Enhancv resume builder, are an excellent option for maintaining consistent formatting.
• Creative elements in text: Avoid using nonessential stylistic features within text. Elements such as emojis and non-standard date formats can impede ATS' ability to recognize information in these sections.

Additionally, you’ll want to ensure your resume is well-organized, professional, and memorable by following these formatting best practices:

• Creative elements: Include creative elements , such as colors and decorative designs, to make your resume unique and memorable.
• Header content: A prominent header featuring your name, desired job title, and contact information lets employers view them at a glance.
• Ordering: List all section examples in reverse chronological order to ensure your most recent and relevant appear first.
• Fonts: Select ATS-friendly fonts matching the overall style of your resume, such as Calibri, Arial, and Times New Roman, or for more creative ATS-friendly font options, try Rubik, Lato, Montserrat, Raleway, Exo 2, and Volkhov, which are all available on the Enhancv Resume Builder.
• Headings and subheadings: Ensure resume sections are organized and include simple, precise headings. Standard section titles ensure ATS accurately recognizes and extracts information from these sections.

Different markets have specific resume formats – a Canadian resume could vary in layout .

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

To construct a well-organized, professional resume that's optimized for ATS and captures the attention of employers, include the following top-recommended sections:

The top sections on a dental hygienist resume:

• Professional summary: This section should be included to give a brief and engaging overview of your skills and experience tailored towards dental hygiene.
• Education and certifications:  It's key for recruiters to verify your qualifications—the completion of an accredited dental hygienist program and required licensure are typically required for these roles.
• Clinical skills and expertise: Include this section to specify your hands-on abilities pertinent to a dental hygienist, such as patient care, equipment sterilization, or dental procedure assistance.
• Work experience:  This section establishes your previous experience in dental hygiene or related fields, demonstrating your practical application of skills and knowledge over time.
• References:  If appropriate, you can list professional references, ideally from the dental field, who can vouch for your qualifications, work ethic, and suitability for the role.

Additionally, include the following essential information for dental hygienist resumes to ensure your most valuable skills and qualifications are covered.

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Licensure:  The recruiter will prioritize candidates who are licensed as dental hygienists as regulations mandate this requirement, ensuring they can perform the role legally and safely.
• Experience:  Recruiters will consider years and breadth of experience in the field, looking for individuals who have a proven track record in dental hygiene, reducing training time.
• Technical skills:  Familiarity with common dental tools and techniques is a priority, ensuring that the candidate can deliver high-quality dental care from day one.
• Patient care skills: Recruiters prioritize hygienists who have excellent patient care skills including empathy, communication, and comfort management because dental visits can potentially cause anxiety among patients.
• Knowledge of dental health and hygiene: They look for candidates with a strong understanding of dental health issues and prevention, ensuring that dental hygiene education can be provided effectively to patients.

How to Write Your Dental Hygienist Resume Experience

Many dental hygienist duties are pretty standard across dental offices—cleaning, screening, and educating. The experience section transforms these routine tasks into vibrant colors of exceptional achievements that leap off the canvas, capturing the attention and admiration of employers.

Education and certifications verify the ability to complete these essential dental hygienist responsibilities. Therefore, to take full advantage of the potential of the experience section , your descriptions should highlight exceptional achievements you’ve made.

Additionally, the experience section should highlight specialized skills developed in past roles that fall outside the standard responsibilities of a dental hygienist—for example, billing experience, appointment scheduling, or specialized certifications.

Look at how the following experience example is improved by focusing on exceptional instead of standard descriptions of duties.

• • Perform thorough dental cleanings, including scaling, root planning, and polishing, for patients of all ages.
• • Conduct comprehensive oral examinations, assess patients' oral health, and identify and document any abnormalities or concerns.
• • Administer fluoride treatments and apply dental sealants to prevent cavities and protect patients' teeth.
• • Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and dietary recommendations for optimal oral health.

This example describes many procedures and duties that are integral to dental hygienists. However, while the applicant clearly understands and can perform the duties of a dental hygienist, it's unclear how effective they have been in the job. To stand out among applicants with the same abilities and experience, they'll need to include specifics clarifying how well they performed these tasks.

Here’s how it should look:

• • Implemented teledentistry initiatives, conducting virtual consultations and follow-ups to enhance access to care and patient outcomes.
• • Mentored and trained new dental hygienists, providing guidance on clinical skills, patient communication, and professional development.
• • Achieved a 95% patient satisfaction rating based on surveys and feedback, demonstrating exceptional communication skills and patient care.
• • Managed a caseload of 500+ patients annually, providing comprehensive dental hygiene services, including cleanings, periodontal treatments, and preventive care.
• • Utilized advanced periodontal therapy techniques, such as laser-assisted scaling and root planing, to effectively treat periodontal disease.

Through the use of  action verbs , this applicant not only showcases their initiative but also takes ownership of their accomplishments. Additionally,  the quantitative data they provide is a testament to their effectiveness. Similarly, they highlight their specialized skills, particularly in advanced periodontal therapy techniques, developed in their previous work.

The shift in focus, describing exceptional achievements and knowledge, communicates the applicant's capabilities and is likely to stand out to employers.

How to quantify impact on your resume

An excellent way to stand out amongst applicants and boost your resume impact  is to include quantifiable data to prove your stated skills and abilities. These are tangible, measurable, or verifiable details that highlight your accomplishments  in past jobs.

This excerpt from the experience section above provides an excellent example of incorporating quantifiable evidence.

This candidate not only presents their patient care skills but also provides compelling data demonstrating the significant impact of their skills.

Determining what numbers and statistics may be available and most impactful in the dental field can be challenging. However, there are numerous ways to incorporate it. These are a few additional possibilities for using numbers and data  to prove your dental hygienist skills:

• The number of patients you typically treat per day or week  shows your ability to manage workload, maintain efficiency, and facilitate effective patient turnover.
• The percentage of patients experiencing improved oral health under your care  highlights your efficacy in treating and educating patients.
• The size of a dental care team you have managed or led in a large office  demonstrates teamwork and management skills, showing that you can handle administrative responsibilities.
• The number of different types of dental equipment and software you’re proficient in  indicates your versatility and competence in handling diverse dental procedures and technologies.
• An account of how many continuous education units or courses you've completed  highlights a dedication to the field and continuous improvement.
• T he number of oral health conditions you've treated  will demonstrate your breadth of knowledge and experience.
• Patient demographic information , such as the age range of patients you've treated, indicates your skills in managing diverse patient populations.

A targeted resume is most effective for dental hygienists, so remember to be selective when incorporating numbers and statistics, only mentioning those relevant to the position you're applying for.

For example, a small dental practice focused on positive patient experience will be more impressed by how your efforts resulted in an increased percentage of patient satisfaction than how many patients you treated daily in a large, fast-paced dental office.

How to write a dental hygienist resume with no work experience

First-time dental hygienists may feel disadvantaged when applying for work among candidates with more extensive work experience. It’s a hands-on profession that requires experience using instruments, performing procedures, and identifying potential concerns. Thankfully, the training and certifications required for the career ensure you have the hands-on experience critical for employers.

When writing your dental hygienist experience section without prior employment  in the field, it’s most effective to focus on a practical work history that demonstrates the same keyword skills found in the job description. For example, you can use internships, practical hours, or temp work  to demonstrate the hard and soft skills necessary for the job.

Follow these steps to write an experience section highlighting transferable skills:

• Compile a list of keywords from the job description.
• Brainstorm previous employment, educational, or volunteer experiences that showcase the same keyword skills and knowledge from the job description.
• To add credibility, include tangible evidence of these skills, such as certifications, achievements, and quantifiable data.
• Avoid including irrelevant work experiences  or outdated experiences .
• List experiences in reverse chronological order to ensure your most recent and relevant examples appear first.

Don’t worry about explaining or giving details about how your transferable skills align with the job you are applying for in your resume. Your  dental hygienist cover letter  is an excellent opportunity to detail further how your background makes you the ideal candidate.

How to List Your Hard Skills and Soft Skills on Your Resume

Crafting a standout dental hygienist's resume involves a delicate dance, seamlessly blending technical prowess with the artistry of patient care and communication.

A skills section  allows employers to easily identify what you view as your capabilities. Many applicants focus on technical or hard skills  that are critical for the job. However, the soft skills related to patient care, communication, and work ethic set candidates apart.

Soft skills can generally be incorporated into various sections of your resume such as in experience descriptions and and personal statements.

Hard skills

Hard skills  are the skills necessary to perform a particular job. They require study, training, and practice. In the dental field, hard skills often require certification and reflect technical abilities, like using office software and dental equipment or performing dental procedures.

When crafting your dental hygienist resume, it's crucial to include the hard skills that employers in the field are actively seeking. To ensure you're on the right track, consult this comprehensive list of top sought-after hard skills:

Best hard skills for your dental hygienist resume

• Dental X-ray technology
• Patient education
• Periodontal therapy
• Local anesthesia administration
• Ultrasonic instrumentation
• Hand scaling technique
• Dental mold taking
• Teeth cleaning and polishing
• Hand-eye coordination
• Dental charting skills
• Caries prevention techniques
• Sealant application
• Fluoride application
• Expertise in dental software ( Dentrix  or Eaglesoft )
• Knowledge of sterile techniques
• Infection control
• Dental health assessment
• Oral cancer screening
• Periodontal disease management
• Radiographic interpretation
• Prophylactic treatment application

Soft skills

Soft skills  are intrinsic, personal skills demonstrating the kind of employee you'll be. In a dental office, these skills enable you to provide excellent patient care and satisfaction, for example, compassion, empathy, and active listening are highly valued in any dental office.

While many applicants will have similar technical skills, their soft skills differentiate them and make them stand out to employers. For example, a dental office specializing in pediatric dentistry will value an applicant who mentions soft skills such as patience, compassion, and dedication to patient education in their soft skills section.

Including some of these top soft skills for dental hygienists will help your resume get noticed:

Best soft skills for your dental hygienist resume

• Verbal communication
• Interpersonal skills
• Listening skills
• Detail-oriented
• Work under pressure
• Time management
• Responsibility
• Adaptability
• Problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking
• Responsiveness
• Team player
• Professional demeanor
• Comforting attitude
• Good hand-eye coordination

The skills an employer values most will depend on many factors, such as the size of the office, patient demographics, number of employees, and dental specialty. Therefore, targeting your skills to the desired position is more effective.

Follow these steps to write your dental hygienist resume's skills sections:

• Format your skills section as a simple list without elaboration or examples.
• Target your skills section using keyword skills directly from the job description.
• Write these keyword skills precisely as they appear in the job description to enhance ATS analysis.
• Never lie about or exaggerate your skills on your resume.

How to List Your Certifications and Education on Your Resume

Highlighting your dental hygienist licensing and education is not just crucial—it's your chance to unveil a treasure trove of expertise. Dive deeper by showcasing additional relevant knowledge and specialized certifications, like a Local Anesthesia Certification, turning your resume into a gold mine of qualifications.

The education section of your resume  should feature your completed accredited dental hygiene program. You can also include any applicable university degree programs.

Your certifications section  should feature state licensure and additional relevant certifications, including continuing education courses required to maintain licensing.

As in other sections of your dental hygienist resume, best practice is to target these sections by limiting entries to those directly related to the position or explicitly requested in the job description.

To write your dental hygienist certification section and education section, follow these steps:

• Create separate sections titled “Education” and “Certifications” to allow ATS to parse information from your resume accurately.
• List all degrees and certifications in reverse chronological order, putting your most recent and relevant entries at the top.
• Keep it organized and straightforward to ensure employers can breeze through your credentials and recognize your value at a glance.

Education-specific best practices:

• For each education item, include the name of the accredited institution, its location, the dates you attended, and the program or degree title.
• Relevant continuing education courses , like those required for state licensing, may be listed in the education section.
• Including your GPA is optional unless the job description requires it.
• In descriptions, brief statements about relevant exceptional coursework achievements  such as those achieved in dental anatomy, radiography, pharmacology, periodontology, oral pathology courses, and during clinical practice.

Here’s an example of an excellent education example:

• • Relevant coursework: Dental Anatomy, Oral Pathology, Periodontology, Pharmacology, Dental Radiography
• • Clinical Experience: Completed 500+ hours of supervised clinical training, providing comprehensive dental hygiene services under the guidance of licensed dental professionals.
• • Professional Development: Participated in 15 seminars and workshops on advanced dental hygiene techniques, infection control, and patient communication.

This applicant does an excellent job including all vital education information. Additionally, they include quantitative data and keyword terms to highlight their top qualifications.

Certification-specific  best practices:

• Include the name of the certification, the certifying institution, and the year obtained.
• Limit certifications to current, unexpired credentials.
• For certifications requiring renewal, include the date first acquired as well as the most recent renewal or a "valid through" date. For certifications you have held long-term, this demonstrates soft skills such as organization and responsibility.
• Limit your certifications to only those specifically named or directly related to the required skills mentioned in the job description.

The following are a few of the top certifications that stand out to employers hiring dental hygienists:

Best certifications for your dental hygienist resume

• Certified Clinical dental hygienist (CCDH)
• Certified Oral Health Educator (COHE)
• Certified Preventive Dental Therapist (CPDT)
• National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)

How to Write Your Dental Hygienist Resume Summary Or Objective

Many aspects of a dental hygienist resume are prescribed or standard among applicants. However, a well-written summary or objective statement lets you personalize your resume by highlighting personal achievements and career goals that appeal to employers.

These Personal statements  are crucial in garnering the attention of potential employers.

Regardless of which personal statement you select, it should clarify how your experiences and qualifications make you the most suitable candidate for the job.

Rephrasing specifics from the “Qualifications” or “Ideal Candidate” sections of a job description is a great way to guarantee you mention the skills and qualifications most valued by the employer.

A summary statement  focuses on your past work experience and how it aligns with the current job offering. On the other hand, an objective statement  focuses on your future career goals to illustrate how they correspond with the position.

Follow these best practices when writing either a summary or an objective:

• Customize the statement to match the specific job you're applying for, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences.
• Start sentences with action verbs to make your summary dynamic and impactful.
• Be brief. A summary should only be 3-5 sentences.

Resume summary

A summary is preferable for most dental hygienists since they’ll have at least some clinical experience. It should highlight how your past success indicates your potential to succeed in the available position.

To write a summary for your dental hygienist resume, follow these best practices:    

• Highlight your most relevant skills or experiences that directly overlap with the job description.
• Briefly mention your years of experience to provide context for your level of expertise.
• Write an impactful summary using keywords  directly from the job description, highlighting your well-aligned keyword experiences and skills.
• Use details such as naming specific software, dental equipment, procedures, and certifications to reinforce the relevance of your experiences.  
• Convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue providing high-quality patient care in the dental field.

A common mistake is writing an overly general dental hygienist summary statement. Let me illustrate:

This applicant follows many of the recommended best practices for writing a summary statement. However, they fail to target it to a particular position. This results in an overly generic statement that misses opportunities to include quantitative data and keywords from the job description which decreases its likelihood to impact potential employers.

Here’s the improved version:

The applicant significantly improves their statement by targeting it to a position in a pediatric dental office. They focus on skills and abilities particularly desirable in an office working with children, including patient education and cavity prevention techniques tailored to young patients. By concentrating on specific experiences in the specialty, they’re sure to draw the attention of any pediatric dentistry office.  

Objective statement

An objective section is a better option for dental hygienists with limited experience or who are applying for their first job. It allows you to focus on how you plan to use your background to achieve career goals while contributing to the success of the office.

To write your dental hygienist resume objective, follow these best practices:

• Describe the type of position you’re seeking.
• Share relevant or transferable skills that will help you succeed in the position using keywords  directly from the job description.
• Clearly state your career goals and enthusiasm for working towards them in the role.
• Highlight valuable contributions you can make while learning and gaining experience.
• Avoid generic phrases. Instead, focus on specific skills and goals that set you apart.

Additional sections for a Dental Hygienist Resume

Numerous skills and abilities make your dental hygienist resume unique among candidates with similar licensing and work experience. The key is to personalize your resume and highlight exceptional qualifications that make you well-suited for a specific role.

One way to accomplish this is to include one or more of these optional additions for your application  in addition to the top-resume sections .

Consider adding one or more of these resume sections to highlight specific qualifications or accomplishments:

• Languages: Excellent patient communication is a cornerstone of patient care. Therefore, being multilingual is a valuable asset in patient-centric environments. Including a language section  is an effective way to set yourself apart.
• Achievements and awards:  If you’ve received recognition for your work in the past, consider including an awards and achievements section  as evidence to support your stated soft skills. In addition to individual awards, you can include awards your office received, such as being voted the top dental facility in your community.
• Professional associations:  A professional associations section highlights your dedication to ongoing improvement and staying current in dentistry. Consider joining one of the leading professional associations for dental hygienists below.

Professional associations for dental hygienists

These prominent professional associations for dental hygienists provide resources, support, and opportunities for networking and continuing education:

• American dental hygienists' Association ( ADHA
• International Federation of dental hygienists ( IFDH )
• American Academy of Dental Hygiene ( AADH )

Individualizing your resume with tailored sections ensures it reflects all your top qualifications and stands out among other applicants. Should you include sections other than those above, be sure they use catchy, ATS-friendly headings .

Including specialization on a dental hygienist resume

If you have extensive experience or certifications in a particular dental specialty, such as orthodontic or geriatric dental hygiene, including a specialization section is an ideal way to highlight these qualifications.

Your dental hygienist specialization section should include the following:

• The title of your dental hygienist specialization
• Relevant training or certifications
• Technical skills  related to using software and equipment
• Skills and expertise in performing specialized dental procedures
• Soft skills like patience and communication are vital when working with children in a pediatric dental specialty

Here’s an example of how your specialization section should appear on your resume:

Only include a specialization section demonstrating extensive knowledge, skills, and qualifications if applicable to the available dental hygienist position. For instance, the example above would be relevant for an orthodontic office.

However, it isn't appropriate as a separate section for work in a general dentistry office. In this case, the qualifications may be mentioned in the other resume sections , such as the experience section, to demonstrate your capacity to learn specialized skills.

Creating an impactful dental hygienist resume is vital to standing out among many applicants. To ensure your dental hygienist resume captures the interest of potential employers, remember these key takeaways.

• ATS-optimized formatting helps your resume stand out in a sea of qualified applicants.
• Experience descriptions should highlight exceptional achievements in prior jobs.
• Your resume's skills section should include a tailored list of soft skills along with technical, and hard skills.
• Showcase licensing and ongoing education accomplishments in the certifications and education section.
• Additional sections, such as a specialization section, help highlight your suitability for a particular job opening.

Looking to build your own Dental Hygienist resume?

Resume Examples

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dental hygiene Resume examples, templates & guide for 2024

Dental hygiene resume examples.

Discover the path to a sparkling career with our dental hygiene resume example and writing guide. We offer free, downloadable and copyable templates that are tailored to this role. Utilize our unique tips to create a standout resume, that underscores your dedication, knowledge, and skills in dental hygiene, and gives you the edge in this competitive field.

• Junior level

Personal Information

Name: Emily Rogers Email: [email protected] Phone Number: (123) 456-7890 Location: Denver, Colorado, United States

Resume Summary

Ambitious and patient-focused Dental Hygienist with 2+ years of experience in providing preventive and therapeutic oral health care. Proficient in patient education, oral screenings, and dental cleaning procedures. Certified by the American Dental Hygiene Association and committed to staying current with the latest techniques in dental hygiene.

Professional Experience

Junior Dental Hygienist | ABC Dental Clinic, Denver, CO | Jun 2019 – Present

• Provided comprehensive oral hygiene care for a diverse patient population, including cleanings, radiographs, and patient education.
• Assisted dentists with complex procedures, improving overall efficiency by 30%.
• Developed personalized home care plans for patients, resulting in a 20% improvement in patient oral health.
• Involved in the implementation of an appointment reminder system that reduced no-shows by 15%.

Dental Hygiene Intern | XYZ Dental Associates, Denver, CO | Jan 2019 – May 2019

• Received hands-on training in preventive and therapeutic services under the supervision of experienced dental hygienists.
• Conducted oral screenings and took patient history, aiding dentists in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Participated in community outreach programs to provide dental care education.

Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene | Denver Community College, Denver, CO | Graduated May 2019

Certifications

Certified Dental Hygienist | American Dental Hygienists’ Association | Issued June 2019

• Patient education
• Dental cleaning & preventive care
• Radiograph interpretation
• Aseptic technique
• Oral health assessments
• Time management
• Teamwork & collaboration

Name: Emily Thompson Email: [email protected] Phone Number: (123) 456-7890 Location: San Francisco, CA, USA

Compassionate and dedicated Dental Hygienist with over 7 years of experience in providing optimal oral care to patients. Proficient in preventive care, patient education, and routine cleanings. Excellent interpersonal skills, known for building long-term patient relationships. Certified in administering local anesthesia and nitrous oxide.

Dental Hygienist | ABC Dental Clinic, San Francisco, CA | June 2014 – Present

• Perform oral health care assessments that include reviewing patients’ health history, dental charting, oral cancer screening, and blood pressure and pulse reading.
• Remove calculus and plaque from all surfaces of the teeth.
• Apply preventive materials to the teeth such as sealants and fluorides.
• Teach patients appropriate oral hygiene strategies to maintain oral health; (e.g., tooth brushing, flossing and nutritional counseling).

Dental Hygienist | XYZ Dental Care, San Francisco, CA | July 2012 – May 2014

• Performed dental prophylaxis, including scaling and root planing.
• Provided oral hygiene care instructions to patients.
• Assisted in the treatment of periodontal patients and provided the necessary follow-up care.
• Managed appointment scheduling and patient records maintenance.

Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene University of California, San Francisco, CA | 2010 – 2012

Certified Dental Hygienist – Dental Hygiene National Board, 2012 Local Anesthesia Certification – University of California, San Francisco, 2013

• Preventive care expert
• Oral assessments and screenings
• Periodontal treatment
• Administration of local anesthesia
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Proficient in dental software

Jane Patterson

123 Park Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601 | (123) 456-7890 | [email protected]

Highly motivated, patient-focused Registered Dental Hygienist with over 10 years of experience. Proven track record of providing top-notch patient care and implementing preventative care treatment plans. Seeking to leverage my expertise and strong interpersonal skills to improve oral health in your dental practice.

Senior Dental Hygienist | Smile Dental Clinic, Chicago, IL – 2015-Present

• Perform oral healthcare and risk assessments which include reviewing health history, oral cancer screening, and periodontal disease screening.
• Take and develop dental radiographs (x-rays).
• Remove calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from all surfaces of the teeth.
• Apply preventive materials to the teeth (e.g., sealants and fluorides).

Registered Dental Hygienist | Happy Teeth Dental Clinic, Chicago, IL – 2010-2015

• Assessed dental conditions and risk using patient screening procedures, including medical history review, dental charting, and periodontal charting.
• Provided dental hygiene services to a diverse patient base; including cleanings, oral inspections, and fluoride treatments.
• Assisted dentists with complex dental procedures.
• Performed teeth whitening procedures for patients.

Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene | University of Illinois, Chicago, IL – 2009

• Excellent manual dexterity and detail orientation
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Proficient in using dental software and Microsoft Office Suite
• Deep knowledge of oral healthcare and hygiene
• Ability to calmly handle medical emergencies
• Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) – Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
• Certified in CPR and First Aid – American Red Cross

Selecting the Right Format for Your Dental Hygiene Resume

Choosing the right format for your dental hygiene resume is vital. If you have extensive experience, opt for a chronological format. For those with less experience or gaps in employment, a functional or combination format may be more suitable. Always prioritize readability and professionalism.

Writing Your Dental Hygiene Resume Summary/Objective

Your resume objective/summary should be a concise, compelling snapshot of your dental hygiene career. Highlight key skills such as patient care, dental procedures knowledge, and experience in dental software. Ensure to mention your years of experience in the field and any achievements or certifications. Make it specific to the job you’re applying for, reflecting the job description where possible.

In the professional experience section of your dental hygiene resume, you need to highlight your relevant work history and achievements. This section is crucial as it showcases your practical knowledge and skills in the field of dental hygiene. Start with your most recent job and work backwards. Each entry should include the job title, the name and location of the company or practice, and the dates of employment.

For each job, provide a bulleted list of your duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments. Make sure to include any specific procedures or treatments you’re proficient in, as well as any notable accomplishments or recognitions. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements where possible.

• Performed oral health assessments, including screening, charting and oral cancer screenings, for over 100 patients each month.
• Applied preventative materials, such as sealants and fluorides, to the teeth.
• Educated patients about proper oral hygiene strategies.
• Received ‘Employee of the Month’ award for exceptional patient care and teamwork.

Remember to tailor this section to the job you’re applying for. Highlight the experience and accomplishments that best align with the job description.

Education & Certifications

When writing the education and certifications section of your dental hygiene resume, the key is to be concise while still providing all the essential information. Start by listing your formal education. If you have a degree in dental hygiene, include the name of the degree, the institution you attended, and the date of graduation. For example:

• Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, XYZ University, 2020

Next, list any relevant certifications. These might include a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) certification, Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification, or other relevant state certifications. Be sure to include the name of the certification, the organization that issued it, and the date you received it. For example:

• Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), American Dental Hygienists Association, 2021

Remember, this section is not just a list of your qualifications. It’s also an opportunity to show potential employers that you’re committed to your profession and continuously improving your skills.

Related Resume Examples

Hr coordinator, regional sales manager, outside sales, executive chef, high school teacher, data entry clerk, senior business analyst, call center representative, academic advisor, pastry chef, dental hygienist, soft and hard skills.

For a successful career in dental hygiene, a blend of both soft and hard skills is essential. Soft skills like interpersonal communication, patience, and empathy help in patient interaction. Hard skills, on the other hand, are technical abilities such as proficiency in dental software, knowledge of oral hygiene practices, and ability to use dental tools.

Soft skills for your dental hygiene resume

• Excellent Communication Skills
• Patient Care and Comfort
• Attention to Detail
• Problem Solving
• Adaptability
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Time Management
• Stress Management
• Empathy and Compassion
• Critical Thinking

Hard skills for your dental hygiene resume

• Dental health maintenance
• Use of dental technology
• Knowledge of oral pathology
• Radiology skills
• Proficiency in dental prophylaxis
• Infection control
• Nitrous oxide administration
• Periodontal dressing application
• Dexterity in dental instrument use
• Experience with dental software