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To be a dental hygienist or a dentist?

I'm a sophomore in high school and I am trying to decide what classes to take. I'm trying to take as many classes as I can if I decide I want to go to a four year school instead of just a two. I'm from Iowa and my biggest decision maker is how much I would make? I've read all over and there are tons of different numbers and job availabilities. I want to live extremely comfortably. I really enjoyed watching what the hygienist do, too. But, if the dentist make more then I think I want to do that. I need advice. #dentistry #dental-hygienist #family-dentistry #pediatric-dentistry

dentistry dental-hygienist family-dentistry pediatric-dentistry
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Dra. Marisol’s Answer

Hi Cierra,


Working in the Oral Health care field is about being passionate with it and wanting to take care of people's Oral Health independently of the money you could make. Choosing a profession is about what you love to do . You will do well if people see in you a professional that is truly focused on their needs. Patient is first.


Dentistry is a 4 year career (minimum - you never stop studying ) , but you have to have at least 2 years in College in a pre-dental program ( Sciences) before.
Find more information here: http://www.ada.org/en/education-careers/careers-in-dentistry/be-a-dentist/high-school-student


Good Luck!
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Estelle’s Answer

It's great that you have found your passion already. I would suggest shadowing in a dental office and deciding early whether you saw yourself in the role of the dentist or the DH. This may save you years of tuition and school.
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Cheryl’s Answer

Cierra,
Both professions are great but don't think of it as "making the money". Do what you enjoy the monetary rewards will come.
I've been practicing for 27 years as a RDH. I did make an effort to apply to dental school after 6 years as a hygienist but didn't get admitted. I'm very happy now that I didn't. As Dr. Barnett mentioned, as a hygienist, the schedule is very flexible if you want to have a family.
Little did I know I would still be practicing but I have recently started teaching as a part-time adjunct clinical instructor.
Every dental hygiene program has different requirements for their program so make sure you look at each one.
Most programs are a 4 year but their are some 2 year associate programs. Then, if you want to do a completion of BS in dental hygiene you may.
Other students have done a BS in science base degree then had options to apply to dental hygiene or DDS program.
Whatever you decide, don't let the monetary part drive you, let the profession drive you to be and do your best.
The best to you!
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john’s Answer

Dental school would cost a lot more, but you make a lot more over your career.
My mom was a hygienist, and I am a dentist. Always jobs in both. Hygienist is a good career for you if you want to have kids and work part time. You have plenty of time to decide
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