Whether you’re a seasoned medical professional looking to advance your career or a newly licensed hygienist seeking your first position, your resume should showcase your understanding of dental procedures, patient care, and preventive oral health practices. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to create a compelling resume that stands out in the dental industry. We’ll provide real dental hygienist resume examples and delve into the key elements that make a standout resume, focusing on dental hygienists’ unique needs and expectations.
Most Popular Dental Hygienist Resumes
Dental Hygienist - Entry-Level Resume Example
Why this entry-level dental hygienist resume example is strong:
This resume effectively showcases the candidate's early experience while highlighting their proficiency in key dental procedures, such as cleanings, radiology exams, and oral cancer screenings. The use of quantifiable results, such as reducing patient anxiety and assisting dentists in exams, provides clear evidence of their patient care skills. The focus on education and certifications demonstrates the candidate’s commitment to ongoing professional development in dental hygiene.
Dental Hygienist - Mid-Level Resume Example
Why this mid-career dental hygienist resume example is strong:
This resume highlights the candidate's experience in delivering patient care and performing advanced dental procedures, such as soft tissue management and whitening. The resume stands out by emphasizing their ability to manage patient anxiety and use innovative techniques to improve the patient experience. The combination of six years of experience and advanced certifications, such as nitrous oxide monitoring, further enhances the candidate's qualifications and expertise in dental hygiene.
Dental Hygienist - Senior-Level Resume Example
Why this senior-level dental hygienist resume example is strong:
This resume emphasizes the candidate’s extensive experience in a high-volume clinical environment, where they have built strong relationships with patients and achieved a 90% satisfaction rating. The resume showcases advanced skills in oral care procedures, including cancer screenings and radiographic studies, demonstrating their expertise and reliability. The candidate’s focus on patient communication and anxiety reduction is a key strength that makes them highly effective in their role.
Dental Assistant Resume Example
Why this dental assistant resume example is strong:
This resume effectively highlights the candidate’s five years of experience in dental assisting, focusing on key tasks such as assisting during surgeries, maintaining infection control procedures, and educating patients. The candidate’s ability to communicate effectively with patients and reduce anxiety during procedures, resulting in a 93% satisfaction rating, makes this a standout resume. The combination of certifications and a strong background in patient care adds to the overall strength of the profile.
Certified Dental Assistant Resume Example
Why this entry-level dental assistant resume example is strong:
This resume showcases the candidate’s solid foundation in dental assisting, with experience in both clinical and administrative roles. The inclusion of technical skills like intraoral procedures and X-rays, combined with administrative tasks such as patient scheduling, highlights the candidate’s versatility. The focus on compliance with safety and infection prevention procedures, along with relevant certifications, makes this a well-rounded entry-level resume.
Licensed Dental Hygienist Resume Example
Why this licensed dental hygienist resume example is strong:
This resume highlights the candidate’s six years of experience in a modern dental practice, demonstrating expertise in soft tissue management, periodontal charting, and ultrasonic instrumentation. The candidate’s ability to manage patient anxiety through empathy and education, along with their experience mentoring new staff, emphasizes their leadership and patient care skills. The inclusion of advanced certifications, such as nitrous oxide monitoring, strengthens the candidate’s qualifications and expertise in the field.
Dental Hygienist Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples
How To Write a Dental Hygienist Resume
1. Create a profile by summarizing your dental hygienist qualifications
An engaging resume profile should highlight your expertise and commitment to supporting dental patients’ overall health and well-being. You can create a strong impression in two to three sentences by incorporating relevant keywords and emphasizing your years of experience. To make your profile even more impactful, consider including an impressive statistic or achievement that showcases your skills and sets you apart.
Your resume profile should focus on demonstrating your dedication to providing exceptional patient care, your proficiency in dental procedures and technologies, and your ability to educate and empower patients to maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Professional Profile Example #1
A dental hygienist with three years of experience delivering oral health care services to patients, including cleanings, dental radiology exams, and oral cancer screenings. Adept at educating patients on oral care techniques and communicating effectively to reduce anxiety during procedures.
Professional Profile Example #2
A dental hygienist with over 10 years of experience performing oral care procedures in a high-volume clinical environment. A strong history of educating patients on oral care techniques to promote long-term health. Adept at communicating effectively with many patients to reduce anxiety and discomfort.
2. Create a powerful list of your dental hygienist experiences
Showcase your practical skills, clinical expertise, and the positive impact you’ve made in your role by creating an accomplishment-driven professional experience section. To make this section impactful, focus on quantifying your experience by including specific achievements and outcomes.
For example, highlight the number of patients you treated daily or the success rate of preventive procedures you performed. Utilize action verbs as you write to add a dynamic element to your bullet points, emphasizing your active role in patient care. This strategy conveys your ability and creates a sense of professionalism and efficiency. Use this section to demonstrate how you execute your skills and to show employers the value you can bring to their dental health facility.
Professional Experience Example #1
Dental Hygienist
Bright Smiles Dental Clinic, Detroit, MI | October 2021 – present
- Performed hygienic, therapeutic, and preventive procedures on clinic patients, including cleaning teeth and gums using dental tools and equipment
- Provide educational services for patients on oral health and preventative techniques
- Assisted dentist during examinations, communicating findings from initial examination, including potential symptoms of periodontal disease
- Conducted minor oral health treatments, including taking x-rays, applying protective sealants, dental charting, stain removal, and taking impressions
Professional Experience Example #2
Dental Hygienist
Smile Makers Dental Services, Philadelphia, PA | November 2016 – present
- Build positive relationships with patients, communicate empathetically to reduce anxiety during procedures, and achieve a 90% patient satisfaction rating
- Perform oral cancer screenings, administer dental radiographic studies, and conduct routine cleanings for a diverse range of patients
- Conduct teeth cleanings for patients ranging in ages 2 to 18, remove plaque and hard deposits, conduct flossing, and apply fluoride treatments or sealants as needed
3. List any education and certifications relevant to dental hygienists
Your academic background serves as concrete evidence of your qualifications and expertise in your field. Employers want to see that you have received proper education and training to perform the responsibilities of a dental hygienist safely and effectively. Outside of the mandatory licensing for your state, include all relevant educational information. Starting with your highest level of education, provide the degree name, institution, location, and completion date.
Also, showcase any technical dental hygiene certifications or training you’ve obtained. Whether in periodontics, pediatric dentistry, or nitrous oxide monitoring, these certifications demonstrate your dedication to professional growth and your ability to provide specialized patient care. Create a separate certifications section and format it similarly, listing the certificate title, issuing organization, and date received.
Education
Template
- [Degree Name]
- [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] – [Graduation Month and Year]
Example
- Associate of Science (A.S.) in Dental Hygiene
- Youngstown State University, Youngstown, OH – May 2017
Certifications
Template
- [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization] – [Completion Year]
Example
- Dental Hygienist, State of Michigan – 2016, License #12345
- Nitrous Oxide Monitoring, Michigan Dental Assistants Association – 2016
4. Make a list of your dental hygienist-related skills and proficiencies
A skills section demonstrates your ability to perform dental hygiene duties and highlights your qualifications as a dental professional. Include these skills to showcase your ability to provide comprehensive dental care, educate patients on oral hygiene practices, and ensure a safe and sterile clinical environment. Be sure to match your skills with those required for the job you’re applying for.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of skills you could use on your dental hygienist resume:
| Key Skills and Proficiencies | |
|---|---|
| Anxiety management | Charting |
| Communication | Dental ethics |
| Detail oriented | Intraoral digital imaging and x-rays |
| Local anesthesia administration | Oral cancer screening |
| Oral hygiene instruction | Organization |
| Pain control | Periodontal therapy |
| Plaque and calculus removal | Rapport |
| Scaling and root planing | Self-direction |
| Sterilization protocols | Time management |
| Whitening | |
How To Pick the Best Dental Hygienist Resume Template
The best resume template for a dental hygienist has a clean and organized design, maintaining a professional appearance. Look for a template that allows you to highlight your most relevant professional accomplishments and key skills prominently. Avoid flashy graphics and overly decorative designs that could distract readers from the content of your resume. It should capture the attention of hiring managers and allow them to navigate your qualifications easily.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Hygienist Resume Examples and Advice
What are common action verbs for dental hygienist resumes?-
Action verbs create a vivid and engaging narrative that captures the attention of hiring managers, allowing them to envision your capabilities and the value you can bring to their dental practice. But finding the right words to describe your work can be a struggle. To overcome this block, we've curated a comprehensive list of common action verbs for dental hygienists.
Consider using some of these words in your dental hygienist resume:
| Action Verbs | |
|---|---|
| Administer | Assess |
| Assist | Calm |
| Clean | Collaborate |
| Communicate | Demonstrate |
| Educate | Engage |
| Examine | Instruct |
| Interact | Mentor |
| Record | Remove |
| Restore | Screen |
| Train | Update |
How do you align your resume with a dental hygienist job description?-
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment for dental hygienists will increase at a faster-than-average rate of 9% between 2021 and 2031. It expects to see 19,000 new jobs created over the decade. Even though new opportunities will be abundant, applicants still need to make an effort on their resumes to stand out. The best way to position yourself as an ideal candidate is to customize your resume for the position you're interested in.
If you have a specific dental hygienist job opening in mind, it's crucial to tailor your resume to that particular role. Begin by studying the job description to identify the skills, qualifications, and responsibilities the employer seeks. Then, incorporate relevant keywords and phrases into your resume. Adjust your professional summary, skills section, and work experience bullet points to emphasize the most relevant aspects of your dental hygienist background.
What is the best dental hygienist resume format?-
Typically, the reverse chronological format for dental hygienists is the best resume format. This format highlights your professional experience, showcasing your employment timeline and development in the field. It lets you emphasize your relevant clinical skills, patient interactions, and specialized knowledge. The chronological format works well for experienced dental hygienists with a consistent work history and notable achievements.
How long should I make my dental hygienist resume?-
A one-page dental hygienist resume is the best option for most candidates, as it ensures clarity and brevity. If you have significant achievements or over 10 years of experience, extending to two pages is fine—but only if the content is tailored and directly supports your application. Focus on impactful accomplishments and key skills that relate to the job.
Include your most recent 10 to 15 years of work experience. Older roles should only appear if they provide unique insights or align closely with the job requirements. Keeping your resume concise and relevant will maximize its impact.
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Writing a complementary cover letter is a great way to increase your chances of securing an interview in your job search. Personalizing your cover letter for the specific organization you're applying to is essential. Learn how by exploring our cover letter guide for dental hygienists. Check out our dental assistant and entry-level dental assistant cover letter guides for writing examples in related occupations.
