Orthodontic hygienist vs dental hygienist

I'm considering a career in either orthodontics or general dentistry, so I'm wondering what the differences are between being an orthodontic hygienist and a dental hygienist. What are the education requirements, job responsibilities, and work environments like for these roles? Thanks in advance!

Education Requirements:

Both orthodontic hygienists and dental hygienists require, at minimum, an associate degree in dental hygiene. This typically takes about 3 years to complete and includes coursework in oral anatomy, dental radiology, nutrition, and periodontics. After obtaining their degree, both professionals must pass a national board exam and a state clinical exam to become licensed in their state. Some hygienists go on to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree, depending on their career goals.

Job Responsibilities:

Dental hygienists mainly focus on preventing and treating oral diseases. Their day-to-day tasks typically include cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, applying sealants or fluoride, conducting oral disease screenings, and educating patients on proper oral care. They often work directly with dentists to develop treatment plans for patients.

Orthodontic hygienists, on the other hand, primarily assist orthodontists with the treatment of malocclusions (misalignments of teeth and jaw). Their responsibilities include taking impressions of patients' teeth, assisting with the placement and removal of orthodontic appliances (e.g., braces or retainers), and educating patients on proper oral care during orthodontic treatment.

Work Environment:

Dental hygienists commonly work in dental practices alongside dentists and dental assistants. Some also find employment in public health organizations, hospitals, and dental schools. They usually work regular office hours, with the possibility of some evening or weekend shifts.

Orthodontic hygienists work exclusively in orthodontic practices or clinics, collaborating closely with orthodontists and orthodontic assistants. Like dental hygienists, their schedule generally follows regular office hours, though they, too, may have occasional evening or weekend shifts.

In summary, while both orthodontic and dental hygienists share similar educational foundations and work in clinical settings, the key difference between the two lies in their job responsibilities and focus. It's essential to consider which area you are more passionate about when deciding which career path to pursue.