What are the pros and cons of becoming a dental hygienist??

Hi Candy,

The Pros of Being a Dental Hygienist:

Employment opportunities: Unlike other fields, dental hygiene does not depend too much on uncontrollable factors.

Higher than average wages: Since employees in this field are in high demand, they command a good salary. According to the BLS, the 2012 median pay for dental hygienists was $70,210 per year, which equals $33.75 an hour. This is twice as much as the average income of all occupations in the U.S. economy. While the dollar amount fluctuates based upon experience and work hours, even the lower paid hygienists earn more than health technicians and technologists in the dental health care field.

Flexible schedules: In an economy where many people are forced to work more to earn less, the job market for dental hygiene provides a welcome exception. In addition, many dental practices are usually closed on weekends, nights or holidays. Employees who prefer to work evening hours or weekends can apply at offices that offer extended hours.

Comfortable work environment: Dental offices provide a safe work environment in a professional, yet comfortable setting. Since the required uniform consists of scrubs, employees do not need to worry how to dress for work. Many offices even provide the uniform or a clothing allowance.

The Cons of Being a Dental Hygienist:

Educational requirements: It takes a certain amount of commitment to become a dental hygienists. Applicants have to meet certain criteria to enter dental hygiene school and must at least complete an associates program. In addition, all states require hygienists to pass exams in order to obtain a license.

Lack of benefits: Despite good wages, many dental hygienists miss out on paid sick leave, retirement plans or even basic health insurance because they work for smaller private practices.

Lack of variety: While it takes at least an associates degree to learn this job, the actual tasks performed do not differ much from day to day. Employees can become easily bored with the daily routine of having to repeat the same procedures.

Unpleasant patients: Although drilling, extractions and other invasive dental tasks are not part of the job menu, dental hygienists still deal with exposure to body fluids like blood and saliva. In addition, not every mouth is picture perfect. Regularly dealing with bad breath and decayed teeth up close is not for the faint of heart, or stomach.

Physical demands: Working in a dental office might not seem like much of a challenge, but employees experience physical strain in the form of back and neck aches. Employees in this field often complain about carpal tunnel syndrome as well. The former is a result of slumping over patients, and the latter is caused by having to grasp small instruments for a long time.

Source: http://www.edentalhygienist.com/the-pros-cons-of-being-a-dental-hygienist/

All the Best!