Individuals interested in becoming dental hygienists usually must complete a two-year certificate or associate degree program. Some schools also offer bachelor's or master's degrees for those interested in clinical practice, research, education, or health program planning, according to Education-Portal.com. Aspiring nurses can complete a four-year bachelor's degree program, associate degree program, or diploma program administered in hospitals to become a registered nurse. Associate degrees usually take two to three years to complete whereas diploma programs might last three years. Individuals who want to become licensed practical nurses--a step below a registered nurse--can complete a yearlong training program. Graduate degrees in nursing are also available for those who want to work in supervisory roles, advance practice, education, or research.
When looking for a dental hygiene program, students should look for one accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Dental hygienists must be licensed by the state in which they practice. Candidates in nearly all states must graduate from an accredited program and pass a written and clinical examination. The American Dental Association's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations administers the written test while clinical examinations are available through regional or state testing agencies.
Nurses must graduate from an approved program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to be licensed. Organizations such as the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing accredit programs. Nurses can also become voluntarily credentialed in specialties such as gerontology or pediatrics through organizations such as the National League for Nursing and the American Nursing Credentialing Center.
Both nursing and dental hygiene courses cover topics such as anatomy/physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and microbiology. Dental hygiene students also study oral anatomy/physiology, radiography, oral histology, local anesthesia, dental materials, clinical dental hygiene procedures, and periodontology. In nursing programs students learn general anatomy and physiology of the body and additionally study chemistry, nursing, nursing specialties, first aid, and psychology. Students in both programs also receive clinical experience.
With training in dental hygiene, individuals mostly work in general dentist offices. Bachelor's and master's degree holders in dental hygiene can also work as researchers, educators, and administrators. Most nurses work in hospitals although some others choose to work in doctors' offices, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities. Master's degree holders can become advanced practice nurses, head nurses, or nursing directors. With a Ph.D. in nursing, individuals also can work in academia, nursing administration, as a government advisor in health policy, or as a consultant for business, according to Medhunters.com.
Employment of registered nurses is expected to grow by 22 percent through 2018 while employment of dental hygienists is projected to climb 36 percent. Median annual wages in May 2008 were $62,450 for registered nurses and $39,030 for licensed practical nurses. Median annual wages in May 2008 for dental hygienists were $66,570.