Dental Hygienist Resume Example & Writing Guide

Last Updated on August 1, 2024 by Career Reload Team

A carefully crafted resume plays a vital role in shaping your dental hygiene career. As a dental hygienist, your resume acts as a powerful tool to showcase your skills, experience, and qualifications in a competitive job market. In this article, we provide tips and guidance on how to create an outstanding dental hygienist resume that sets you apart from other candidates. Discover valuable insights to optimize your resume and increase your chances of securing your dream job in the field of dental hygiene.

You might also be interested to read how to make a resume.

Example of a dental hygienist resume (Word version)

Tailor the dental hygienist resume example to your own experiences, skills, and qualifications. Make sure to include any additional relevant sections or information specific to your background. View more resume examples by industry.

Download resume example (.docx)

Sample dental hygienist resume (text version)

Your Name
Dental Hygienist
Address, City, State, ZIP Code | Phone Number | Email Address

Objective

A highly skilled and compassionate dental hygienist with [number of years] of experience in providing exceptional oral healthcare services. Dedicated to improving patients’ oral health through comprehensive assessments, preventive care, and patient education. Seeking a rewarding position as a dental hygienist in a reputable dental practice.

Professional Experience

Dental Hygienist, [Dental Practice Name], [City, State] | [Dates]

Performed thorough dental cleanings, oral prophylaxis, and periodontal assessments for a diverse patient population, ensuring optimal oral health.
Administered local anesthesia for pain control during dental procedures, ensuring patient comfort and a positive experience.
Captured and interpreted dental X-rays to aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Conducted oral health education sessions, providing patients with personalized oral hygiene instructions and preventive care strategies.
Collaborated closely with dentists, dental assistants, and other team members to develop comprehensive treatment plans and provide exceptional patient care.
Documented dental conditions, treatments, and patient progress accurately in electronic dental records using dental software systems.
Ensured strict adherence to infection control protocols, maintaining a safe and sanitary dental environment.
Assisted dentists in dental emergencies, effectively managing and addressing sudden complications during procedures.

Dental Hygienist, [Dental Practice Name], [City, State] | [Dates]

Delivered exceptional patient care by providing thorough dental cleanings, oral prophylaxis, and periodontal assessments to patients of all ages.
Educated patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
Captured high-quality dental X-rays and conducted dental charting to aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Implemented preventive measures such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants to promote optimal oral health.
Assisted the dentist during dental procedures by managing suction, retracting soft tissues, and ensuring patient comfort.
Implemented and maintained strict infection control protocols, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for patients and staff.
Managed dental emergencies efficiently, providing immediate care and appropriate referrals when necessary.
Utilized dental software systems to document patient records, treatment plans, and progress notes accurately.
Received positive feedback from patients for creating a comfortable and welcoming environment, reducing dental anxiety, and providing personalized care.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
Name of University, City, State
Year of Graduation

License and Certifications

Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), State Licensing Board, Year
CPR Certification, Certifying Organization, Year

Skills

Patient Care
Dental Hygiene Procedures
Dental Radiography
Dental Software (e.g., Dentrix, Eaglesoft)
Oral Health Education
Periodontal Disease Management
Dental Charting
Local Anesthesia Administration
Infection Control
Dental Instruments and Equipment
Patient Communication
Team Collaboration
Problem-solving
Time Management
Adaptability
Attention to Detail
Dental Emergencies
Continuous Learning
Ethical Standards
Bilingual Skills (English and Spanish)

Professional Affiliations

American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA)
Local Dental Hygiene Association

1. Showcase professional experience

Highlight your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. For each position, provide a concise description of your roles and responsibilities, focusing on accomplishments rather than just job duties. Use action verbs such as “managed,” “implemented,” and “developed” to demonstrate your contributions and impact in previous roles.

2. Quantify achievements

Quantifying your achievements adds credibility to your resume. Whenever possible, use numbers, percentages, or metrics to highlight the positive outcomes you achieved in your previous roles. For example, mention the number of patients treated per day, percentage increase in patient satisfaction, or successful completion of continuing education courses.

3. Highlight relevant skills and qualifications

Dental hygiene requires a unique set of skills and qualifications. Create a dedicated skills section that includes both technical and soft skills relevant to the field. Technical skills may include periodontal assessment, radiography, and knowledge of dental software, while soft skills may encompass excellent communication, attention to detail, and patient education abilities.

4. Use targeted keywords

Keywords play a vital role in optimizing your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by many employers. Research industry-specific keywords such as “dental hygienist,” “oral health,” “patient care,” and incorporate them naturally throughout your resume. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as it may harm your chances of getting shortlisted.

Examples of dental hygienist resume keywords

Oral Health
Patient Care
Periodontal Assessment
Radiography
Dental Software
Oral Prophylaxis
Dental Cleanings
Dental Examinations
Preventive Dentistry
Teeth Whitening

Dental Anatomy
Periodontal Disease
Scaling and Root Planing
Dental Sealants
Fluoride Treatments
Dental X-Rays
Patient Education
Oral Hygiene Instructions
Dental Charting
Local Anesthesia Administration

Nitrous Oxide Administration
Infection Control
Sterilization Procedures
Dental Instruments
Dentrix
Eaglesoft
Soft Tissue Management
Dental Emergencies
Team Collaboration
Continuing Education

5. Emphasize education and certifications

A strong educational background is crucial in the dental hygiene field. Include your degree, diploma, or certification details, mentioning the name of the institution, graduation year, and any honors achieved. If you have completed additional certifications or attended relevant workshops, list them to showcase your commitment to ongoing professional development.

6. Include continuing education and professional memberships

Dental hygiene is a dynamic field that requires professionals to stay updated with the latest industry trends and techniques. Mention any continuing education courses, workshops, or conferences you have attended. Additionally, include memberships in professional organizations such as the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) or local dental hygiene associations to showcase your commitment to professional growth.

7. Customize each job application

Tailor your dental hygienist resume to match the specific requirements of each job you apply for. Study the job description carefully and align your skills and qualifications with the employer’s needs. Highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the position. Accompany your resume with a tailored dental hygienist cover letter.

8. Proofread and edit

Before submitting your resume, ensure it is error-free and well-polished. Proofread for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. Read it aloud or ask someone else to review it for clarity and coherence. A well-edited resume reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

9. Optimize the length and format

Aim for a one to two-page resume to maintain a concise and focused document. Use a clean and professional font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and maintain consistent formatting throughout the document. Avoid excessive use of bold or italics, and use bullet points to improve readability.

10. Selecting an appropriate format

The first step towards creating an effective dental hygienist resume is to choose a suitable format. Opt for a chronological or combination resume format, as it emphasizes your work experience and skills. Start with a professional summary or objective statement that highlights your career goals and expertise.

Here are a few free Word resume templates for dental hygienists that you can use for inspiration:

Dental Hygienist Template

Dental Hygienist Resume Template

Conclusion

Crafting a great dental hygienist resume requires a strategic approach, incorporating industry-specific keywords, highlighting relevant skills and qualifications, and emphasizing your achievements. By utilizing the tips presented in this guide, you will be well-prepared to develop an exceptional resume that grabs the attention of employers in the competitive dental hygiene field. Keep in mind that your resume serves as your initial impression, so dedicate the necessary time and effort to ensure it stands out, thereby maximizing your prospects of securing your desired dental hygienist position.

Career Reload Team

We’re a team of writers dedicated to providing insights and tips for navigating the professional world. With a collective wealth of experience across various industries and roles, our team understands the challenges and opportunities that come with seeking meaningful work and advancing your career. We help job seekers to better their careers by offering career advice & free resources. Download free Word resume templates and resume templates for Google Docs.