Is a dental assistant and a dental hygentist the same thing? if not what is the difference?

The main diffrence between the two are duties and pay. A dental assistant pretty much does everything for the dentist as in prepares everything, before the procedure, help them throughout the procedure, and cleans up everything after the procedure. Also there is such thing as a level 1 and a level 2 dental assistant. A level one isn't allowed inside the mouth, like they can hold the suction and retract the cheek but thats it. While a level 2 can actually clean the patients teech, take impressions and x-rays, among other things. A hygienist, can do soo much more, and can do everything without the dentist being present, alot of the time they will rent the chair from the dentist and work at many diffrent office, you can pretty much make your on scheduel. They are also allowed to go below the gum linne. If you are considering between the 2 I would suggest the Hygienist, I spent 1 year in school for an assistant and, whish i would have just spent the extra year to become a hygienist, they pay is hugely diffrent. Hope this helps!!

Is a dental assistant and a dental hygentist the same thing? if not what is the difference?
Dental hygienists have more responsibility, but more freedom. Advantages: 2 to 3 times the pay of dental assistants, set own hours. Disadvantages: way longer and more costly schooling.





Dental assistants work under supervision of dentists. They make the patients comfortable and help the dentist with procedures. Advantages: flexible hours, good benefits, little or no certification needed. Disadvantages: limited room for advancement, lower pay. (A very well qualified assistant in a specialty office can make good money, but never as much as a hygienist.)
Reply:no they are not the same thing.


assistant (hence the name) assists the dentist in procedures.....they are very important to the dentist.





hygienists clean and polish your teeth......you'll see them for your cleaning check-ups