Dental hygiene assistants, or dental hygienists, clean patients' teeth and teach them to practice good oral hygiene. They may also take X-rays, administer anesthetics, and assist dentists during treatment. If you're interested in joining this rapidly growing profession, getting career training as a dental hygiene assistant is a smart move. Degree programs in dental hygiene can prepare you to take the state-mandated licensing exams that you must pass to work in this field. Most dental offices look for hygienists with at least an associate's degree.