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Is dental hygiene right for me?

I have recently been doing research on dental hygiene because it checks most of the boxed on my list. Making people feel better and working in the healthcare is really important to me, and dental hygiene is just that. I found out that the college I attend has a dual degree program in dental hygiene and healthcare management, but before I decide to apply, I would really like to know what the life of a dental hygienist is like. Are dental hygienist happy? Are they financially comfortable? Do they have a good work-life balance? Please advise. #dental-hygienist #dentistry #dentist #dental #college

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Lauren’s Answer

Hi Ramsey,

While I don't work in this field, something that you could consider doing is contacting your dentist or a dentist in your area and ask them to shadow their dental hygienist for a day. That way, you will get a first hand experience in their day to day activities and can ask their opinions on how satisfying the role is, if they feel financial stress, etc. There is a way to do this delicately so that they feel comfortable speaking with you.

Good luck in your search!

Lauren
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David’s Answer

Hello Ramsey:

I do not work in the dental field but my family members does and run it, most of the staff(s) from our clinic who are dental hygienist are pretty stable with the job and also gaining more experiences so they can continue school for dental or specialist, so I can say they are happy for working for my family clinic. As I know most of them are making $25 - $40 per hours, you will be looking at $45k to $80k if you are on salary. Like I said, some will advance and move on to being a dental specialist and/or dentist, while some like what they are doing already and not moving toward anywhere.

Since your school is offering a dual degree of dental hygiene and healthcare management, if you are able to handle the course work and load then I would recommend doing it because you have an advantage for working in different areas of the health care field once you complete school.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! This was very helpful! Ramsey
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Mohammed’s Answer

Hi Ramsey

I worked as a dental hygienist previously, generally, it is a very stable career path, you can find jobs from 1 day a week to full 5 or 6 days a week depending on your time and how much you wanna make.
just like mentioned above the pay is between 28-40 $/hour, or by production percentage. you generally reach the higher end after 3-5 years.
it is not a difficult job, but, requires a lot of communication, thoroughness, and professionalism.
and depending on what you put in, it can be very exciting if you are a sociable person with people skills, or it can be boring if you just focus on teeth and waiting for your paycheck.
in general, I had a good experience as a hygienist.
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Burel’s Answer

I strongly recommend you conduct an informational interview with a dental hygienist. He or she would love to speak with you about any questions or concerns you have. Here's an example of how to conduct an effective informational interview https://www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/Network/informational-interviews.aspx
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! This was very helpful! Ramsey
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