Dental Hygienists are part of the dental health team. They are oral clinicians who aid the public in developing and maintaining good oral health. They perform preventive and therapeutic treatment under the supervision of a dentist or work in a school system or public health agency. They perform such duties as polishing teeth and applying fluoride treatments to prevent and control tooth decay. While cleaning teeth, dental hygienists record decay and disease for use by the dentist in diagnosis and care. Dental hygienists may take and develop x-rays, sterilize instruments, or maintain patient records. They may also mix filling compounds and act as chairside assistants handling supplies and instruments. A license is required to practice as a Dental Hygienist. Requirements: 1) Must have graduated from a dental hygiene program accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation and approved by the Board. 2) Successful completion of National Board Examination for Dental Hygiene. 3) Satisfactory completion of clinical dental hygiene examination administered by a recognized testing agency. 4) Successful passage of Arkansas Jurisprudence Exam over Arkansas dental laws. 5) Complete criminal background check required. 6) Healthcare provider level cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification required. Written and Practical Examinations. Application: $100.00, Renewal fee (every 2 years): $100.00
