How to Get a Job in Dental Radiology
Dental radiologists are responsible for taking internal images of people's teeth and jaws. Dental radiologists may look at the images and suggest to the dentist a course of action. Dental radiology does not require a degree in dentistry, nor does it require you to be a dentist.
- Find and enroll in a dental hygienist school. Dental radiology is not usually offered on its own. Instead, dental radiology is taught as part of a broader program called dental hygiene. Dental hygienist school takes about one to two years to complete and it will assist you in getting your dental hygienist certification in your state.
- Intern at a dental office. During your time training as a dental hygienist, you may be required to gain course credits through an internship. During your internship request specific training doing patient x-rays.
- Apply for jobs. When applying for jobs at a dental office, note that you have experience in dental radiology if you were able to work with it during your internship.
- Consider getting an advanced degree in dental health. Bachelor and Master's degree in dental sciences can open more doors for you career wise. This advanced coursework may take several years to complete and will be considerably more expensive than a dental hygienist school, but will have bigger rewards in the end. With an advanced degree you will be more versatile and be better able to interpret the results of the radiology images.
- Demonstrate advanced radiology skills. Learn all you can during your time at school and interning about dental radiology. The better you are able to demonstrate advanced skill in the field the more likely you will be hired to perform this task.