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Service Branches
Work Environment
Dental hygienists and assisstants in the military usually work indoors in dental offices or clinics. Some may be assigned to duty aboard ships.
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Military Status
Enlisted
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Average Military Salary
$91,180
Overview
Dental hygienists and assistants have many responsibilities, including teeth cleaning, examining patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis, and providing other preventive dental care. They also educate patients on ways to improve and maintain good oral health and perform other miscellaneous tasks, such as equipment maintenance and supplies inventory.
Military Training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for dental hygienists and assistants consists of classroom and on-the-job instruction, including practice in providing dental care. Training content may include:
- Basic principles and techniques of patient care
- Preventive dentistry
- Radiology (X-ray) techniques
- Dental office procedures
- Dental hygiene procedures
- Anatomy and physiology
Helpful Attributes
- Ability to follow spoken instructions and detailed procedures
- Good eye-hand coordination
- Interest in working with people
Related Civilian Careers
- Dental Assistants
- Medical Assistants
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Dentists, General
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