Employment

Dental Hygienists work mainly in private general dental practices and in orthodontic practices. A small number are employed by Dental Health Services in adult clinics. At present demand for Dental Hygienists is strong.

The Dental Hygienist is a member of the dental team and works under the direction of a dentist who is responsible for the diagnosis and treatment planning for every patient and who delegates the work to be carried out by the Dental Hygienist.

School Dental Therapists work within Dental Health Services’ School Dental Service. They treat school children in either fixed clinics at primary schools or mobile vans. As part of a statewide service, School Dental Therapists may be posted to a wide range of locations in Western Australia. At present demand for School Dental Therapists is strong.

School Dental Therapists work under the direction of a dentist who is responsible for many clinics. They receive a great deal of responsibility for the care of individual patients. There is a career structure for School Dental Therapists within the School Dental Service.

Graduate Dental Hygienists and Therapists have also moved into the area of practice management, practice advisory services and have also worked as representatives for dental product companies.

Approximate salaries for recent graduates are in the range $40,000 - $50,000 per annum. Some more experienced Dental Hygienists working in private practice negotiate higher rates.

Dental Hygienists and School Dental Therapists must register with the Dental Board and pay an annual registration fee. Dental Hygienists and School Dental Therapists must comply with the Dental Act of Western Australia. The Dental Act specifies approved qualifications to practice in Western Australia and duties that can be performed.

The Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene and the Associate Degree in School Dental Therapy qualifications are recognised in other Australian states. Reciprocal registration to work in most overseas countries does not automatically apply in many instances. It is usually a requirement to undertake a registration examination and/or a period of training