The field of dental hygiene is growing rapidly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of dental hygienists will grow by 38% between 2010 and 2020, which is significantly faster than average. Additionally, since people will always need their teeth cleaned, dental hygienists will always be in demand!
No matter where you choose to live or work, a job as a dental hygienist is essentially the same despite the fact that some degrees can lead to multiple career paths. If you enjoy what you do, this consistency can be great, but if you’re looking for more variety, dental hygiene might not be the field for you.
Pros of being a dental hygienist
Here are six advantages of becoming a dental hygienist:
1. Job outlook
2. Salary
3. Minimal training requirements
To be eligible for employment, dental hygienists typically need an associate degree. Although some choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree, dental hygiene associate degrees are most frequently held by those working in the field. Associate degrees take two years on average to complete. These programs typically require a period of classroom study in addition to practical training for those studying dental hygiene. Dental hygienists must obtain a license to practice in the state in which they intend to work after completing their program of study. State-specific licensing requirements differ, so make sure to check what they are in your area.
4. Flexible work options
Most dental hygienists have access to flexible scheduling options, such as full-time, part-time, in-house, and freelance work. Each of these schedules has its own benefits, such as enabling dental hygienists to receive full benefits when employed full-time or setting up their schedules to work part-time so they can balance personal obligations with their careers. If hygienists who freelance are able to work around their clients’ schedules, they may have even more scheduling flexibility. For those who have other responsibilities outside of work, such as family obligations or a second job, these flexible options can make this a great career choice.
5. Interactive work environment
Dental hygienists frequently work in an interactive and interesting environment. Typically, dental hygienists collaborate with dentists, other hygienists, dental assistants, and administrators. Additionally, they get to work closely with patients, which enables them to interact with and get to know new people every day. Hygienists also spend a significant portion of their day moving between patient rooms and using their hands. Since this is an active job, hygienists may remain motivated and engaged at work all day.
6. Rewarding
Finally, being a dental hygienist can be a rewarding career. By taking care of their patients’ teeth and educating them about their dental health, these professionals improve the lives of others. Dental hygienists strive to relieve their patients’ discomfort in the mouth, teeth, and jaws as well as their stress and anxiety. People who enjoy working with people, contributing to a team, and providing direct patient care through their services and skills may find this career to be especially fulfilling.
What do dental hygienists do?
A dental hygienist is a member of the medical community who looks after and cleans patients’ teeth. They are crucial in helping their patients maintain good oral health by offering preventative care. Dental hygienists collaborate with dentists to help them perform complex dental procedures, diagnose problems with the teeth, jaw, and mouth, and perform routine patient exams. The typical daily responsibilities of dental hygienists include:
Cons of being a dental hygienist
Here are five potential drawbacks to bear in mind when pursuing this career, along with ideas for overcoming them:
1. Repetitive tasks
Some people might think that a dental hygienist’s job eventually gets boring. Hygienists work on a variety of tasks throughout the day, but there may not be much variation in the tasks they do. For instance, hygienists greet patients, examine their teeth, clean and floss their teeth, and administer dental treatments throughout the majority of their workday. It’s critical for hygiene professionals to maintain motivation because the repetition of these duties can make them seem tiresome. Creating unique connections with each patient can help hygienists avoid boredom and remain motivated in their work.
2. Lack of career variety
Due to their specialized training, dental hygienists may only have a few career options. A degree in dental hygiene might not provide as much career flexibility as a degree in biology or chemistry, two subjects that are more broadly applicable. Since dental hygienists often have narrower skill sets than those in other professions, they might require additional education to pursue careers in fields other than dentistry.
Obtaining credentials or specializing in a patient population can help those looking to advance their careers. For instance, some hygienists may focus on treating young children, the elderly, people with special needs, or people who have dental anxiety. Another choice is to obtain a dental hygiene bachelor’s or master’s degree, which will allow you to work as an instructor. Before enrolling in dental school, some aspiring dentists begin working as hygienists.
3. Difficult patients
Hygienists deal with people directly, so they occasionally encounter difficult patients. Patients who experience anxiety or oral pain may not cooperate as well with the hygienist. Working with children, patients with special needs, or people with sensitive teeth can also make a hygienist’s job more difficult. Because they present opportunities for dental hygienists to get to know their patients and use their problem-solving abilities, working effectively with challenging patients can be rewarding. Hygienists can work with their patients to manage their discomfort by communicating with them and showing empathy for their situation.
4. Workload
Some hygienists may work long hours depending on their workplace. Dental offices with a high patient volume can be hectic places where hygienists must move quickly to keep up with scheduling demands. These settings, where they can complete their work quickly and keep busy all day, might be preferred by some hygienists. Some individuals might function better in a more laid-back setting where they can take their time to get to know each patient. Finding a workplace that accommodates your preferences can be facilitated by becoming more aware of your own work preferences and style.
5. Physical strain
The work of a hygienist can be physically demanding. These experts frequently spend a significant portion of their workday leaning over patients and using instruments to access tight spaces inside the mouth. As a result, they might struggle with muscle stiffness and soreness. Hygienists who practice good self-care can better manage the physical demands of their work. Muscle tension can be relieved through light stretching, massaging sore muscles, using cold or warm compresses, engaging in regular exercise, and taking warm baths. Taking breaks throughout the day can also lessen the effects of job-related muscle soreness.
Tips for choosing a dental hygiene career
You can use the following advice to determine whether this career is right for you:
Consider your professional interests
Consider your professional interests first when choosing a career path. These comprise your preferred working methods and the topics that keep you motivated and interested. For instance, dental hygienists frequently find biology and anatomy to be interesting subjects. They typically enjoy working with patients and are interested in providing healthcare. A career as a dental hygienist may be a good fit for you if you enjoy working with your hands, using tools, helping patients, and cooperating with others. By considering your interests, you can select a profession that you find enjoyable.
Think about your educational objectives
Your educational objectives can also help you determine if a career as a dental hygienist is right for you. For those who want to finish their education with the least amount of time and money spent on it, becoming a dental hygienist is a great career option because they typically only need to complete a two-year program. Although many people will appreciate this small investment, dental hygienists may have fewer opportunities to pursue opportunities for advanced education. Before deciding to pursue a career in this field, consider the level of education you want to attain.
Account for your financial goals
When deciding on a career path, take your financial objectives into account. Despite having a competitive salary, dental hygienists’ earning potential frequently depends on a number of variables, such as their location and whether they work full-time, part-time, or freelance. Additionally, compared to other professions, hygienists might have fewer opportunities for career advancement. For instance, hygienists can advance their careers by going to dental school to become dentists or by obtaining a higher education degree to become instructors of oral health. Since these options may require more time and money, it might take you longer to reach your full earning potential.
PROS AND CONS OF BEING A DENTAL HYGIENIST!
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of being a dental hygienist?
- You will need formal training to be a dental hygienist.
- You will need to pay for your dental hygienist schooling.
- You will need a license to work. …
- You’ll discover that there isn’t much state-to-state license reciprocity.
- You may have an undesirable schedule at times.
What are the pros of being a dental hygienist?
- PRO: Growing employment. The field of dental hygiene is showing signs of rapid expansion.
- CON: Lacking career variety. …
- PRO: The salary. …
- CON: Can be monotonous. …
- PRO: Schooling is minimal. …
- CON: Occasional unpleasant patients. …
- PRO: Flexible scheduling.
Is it worth it to be a dental hygienist?
A career in dental hygiene is both fulfilling and challenging. A variety of opportunities in various work settings and with both part-time and full-time jobs available are made available to those who qualify in this profession. Dental hygiene is definitely a good career. Many things about this profession can never go unnoticed.
