The role of a Dental Hygienist is both rewarding and essential in the dental healthcare sector. Responsible for maintaining patients’ oral health, performing cleanings, taking X-rays, and educating patients on oral hygiene, dental hygienists play a vital role in ensuring a clinic’s success. In the UK, salaries typically range from £24,000 to £40,000 per year depending on experience and location, with opportunities to earn higher in private practice. With the demand for dental services steadily growing, having a standout Dental Hygienist CV is critical to securing interviews and landing your dream role.
Why a Strong Dental Hygienist CV is Important
Your CV is your first impression. Hiring managers often spend just seconds reviewing applications before deciding who makes the interview shortlist. A well-crafted CV highlights your skills, experience, and professional achievements while showcasing your commitment to patient care. It also demonstrates that you understand the industry, are detail-oriented, and are ready to make an immediate impact.
Essential Sections of a Dental Hygienist CV
Creating a CV that captures attention requires clarity, structure, and relevance. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have sections:
Professional Profile
Start with a brief summary of your professional identity, expertise, and career goals. Highlight your experience in dental hygiene, patient care, and any special qualifications or certifications. Keep it concise—3 to 5 sentences that make hiring managers want to read further.
Key Skills
List your most relevant skills such as dental prophylaxis, patient education, periodontal therapy, radiography, and infection control. Include soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. A strong skills section immediately demonstrates your capability for the role.
Professional Experience
Detail your work history in reverse chronological order. Include the clinic name, job title, and dates of employment. Use bullet points to highlight achievements and responsibilities. Focus on measurable outcomes where possible, for example: “Reduced patient dental plaque incidence by 15% through education and follow-up care.”
Education and Qualifications
Include all relevant degrees, diplomas, and certifications such as a Diploma in Dental Hygiene or NVQ Level 3. Mention any ongoing professional development courses or CPD points earned.
Additional Information
This can include professional memberships, volunteering, and any specialised training like laser therapy or sedation techniques. These details can set you apart from other applicants.
Dental Hygienist CV Template Example
Using a cv template can save time and ensure your CV is formatted professionally. For example, a clean, easy-to-read layout with clear headings for each section is ideal. Ensure your contact details are up-to-date and include a professional email address.
You can view a practical cv example for a Dental Hygienist here. This template can be adapted whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional.
Advice for Graduates
If you are new to the field, your education and placements take centre stage. Highlight clinical placements, relevant coursework, and any voluntary work. Emphasise transferable skills like communication and organisational ability. A strong profile statement can compensate for limited professional experience.
Advice for Mid-Level and Senior Dental Hygienists
For those with 3+ years’ experience, focus on achievements and impact. Highlight leadership roles, mentoring, or contributions to improving clinic efficiency or patient outcomes. If you manage a team or run special programs, include these details. Quantifiable results, like improved patient satisfaction or increased treatment uptake, are highly persuasive.
CV Structure Tips
Keep your CV to two pages maximum.
Use clear, professional fonts and headings.
Include bullet points for readability.
Prioritise relevant information at the top.
Tailor your CV for each application—avoid a one-size-fits-all approach.
Do’s and Don’ts for a Dental Hygienist CV
Do’s:
Use action verbs like “implemented,” “managed,” or “enhanced.”
Include measurable achievements.
Tailor your CV to the job description.
Proofread meticulously for errors.
Keep formatting clean and professional.
Don’ts:
Don’t exaggerate or falsify qualifications.
Avoid long paragraphs; be concise.
Don’t include irrelevant hobbies.
Avoid using unprofessional email addresses.
Don’t leave gaps unexplained in your employment history.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a winning Dental Hygienist CV is about presenting your experience, skills, and passion for dental care in the clearest and most compelling way possible. Whether you’re a graduate or a senior professional, the right CV can significantly improve your chances of landing your ideal position.
For personalised guidance and professional support, you can book an appointment with our expert team to have your CV and LinkedIn profile optimised for success. Let us help you stand out and secure the interview you deserve. Book your appointment here.
