PROs and CONs of being a DENTAL HYGIENIST

[@TeethTalk]

🦷 Want to become a dental hygienist? Watch my free RDH Video Checklist: bit.ly/rdh-video-checklist

[@dariaharruff7025]

no you cant force me to do anything

[@BlossomHope810]

Thank you! I’m currently taking prerequisites. I can’t wait to become a hygienist!

[@alando1993]

We’re in the same boat

[@BlossomHope810]

alando duhaney we’ll make it❤️

[@LS-cx5dg]

BlossomHope810 good luck. Ok currently watching a bunch of dental vids and doing tons of research this is really making me even more happy about the dream I want to achieve 😊

[@SweetGee321]

Same!!

[@kimmikim1628]

Same here I always change my major afraid of the cons but Jesus I want to try this

[@leahlynd4357]

Thank you! I’m a high school senior, butttt I really want to do this as my career, the insight is really helpful!❤️

[@TeethTalk]

yay! thank YOU for watching! wishing you the best! here is my video for HS students hope this helps: teethtalkgirl.com/rdh/high-school-to-become-a-hygienist?rq=high%20school

[@zee3793]

Samee

[@omanhi30]

Pros: good money, you decide your schedule, can be part time if have kids. Cons: patients will give you a hard time if they never seen you before, high demanding, you could cry a lot if you did not find a good office. The job is hard on your body mentally physically. I go home some days and my tank is empty.

[@mytchelletienne3919]

God bless you

[@RG-hf4et]

Imagine being a dentist if you feel that way about hygiene!

[@sixteen.candles.4644]

Damn. Idk i was thinking abt being a dental hygeinist but chemistry is a beast for me. So im doing Rad Tech

[@omanhi30]

@@sixteen.candles.4644 if time went back i ‘d rather do microbiology so i can work in lab. Honestly dental hygiene is a good profession great pay even for beginners but man “we” not just my self got yelled at a lot from patients of course we have nice pts but 50/50 i always pray every day to not see grumpy mean and rude pts. And I can’t imagine myself working till retirement lol.

[@jacquelinegutierrez4466]

@@sixteen.candles.4644 my husband is a rad tech. Makes great money in the hospital. However he says if you can’t handle rude doctors don’t do it. So I’m going to do dental hygiene. Luckily I’ve been good a chemistry and believe in you. Practice, practice, practice😉

[@damnyoubitch666]

Senior year of dental hygiene school right hereeeee! OMGGGG I am SO ready to graduate! I was a dental assistant for 5 years for an oral surgery and let me tell you.....I AM SO READY TO WORK ALONE! (obviously a hygienist doesn't work completely alone, I know they still work with dental assistants, dentists, front desk receptionists, etc.) Don't get me wrong, I can work in a team, BUT it takes a toll on you when your "team" isn't working as a TEAM. I worked with a group of women who were.....let's say...doing the BARE MINIMUM as much as possible. I love going above and beyond, but I CANNOT CARRY THE WHOLE TEAM BY MYSELF ALL THE TIME. This is what really pushed me to go back to school to become a dental hygienist. I knew this was my end goal but I got too comfortable working as a dental assistant at that oral surgery. Let's just say, DON'T SETTLE! I cannot wait to officially become an RDH! :D

[@TeethTalk]

so happy for you to start your DH journey! sending positive toothy vibes your way :) thank you for watching!

[@SweetGee321]

Yess omg I feel the same !! I’m an assistant and ugh definitely can’t wait to start hygiene ❤️

[@jenniferbullett7254]

@choua thao I wish I was in your shoes. I'm in school now myself however I'm taking the core classes right now. I have a lonnngggg way. I just wanted to wish you the best of luck with your career.

[@COURTNEYVCK]

I'm a dental assistant at the moment and got an offer for a new job but the schedule won't allow for school. I'm thinking of turning it down to attend school part time. It's been a hard decision.

[@damnyoubitch666]

@@COURTNEYVCK Girl do it if you financially can. Thank goodness I was able to quit my dental assisting job and just go full time for hygiene school. I absolutly do not regret any momemt of it. I had no trouble getting a job after graduation. Pay was pretty much 3-4 times more than what I would have ever gotten working as a dental assistant. I work pretty much by myself everyday and I absolutely LOVE it. I am SO, SO much happier working as a dental hygenist than a dental assistant. PLUS, im living very financially comfortably😁✌Dont settle and dont give it up if thats what you really want ❤

[@sweetgrl4JC]

I’ve been doing dental Hygiene for 8 years now, I’m in my late 30’s and have had several different jobs before this: nanny, tutor, dog walker/pet sitter, worked in a restaurant for 7 years, coffe shop for 2 years. I worked for a couple different dental offices part time as i had a hard time finding a dental office that would higher a new grad for full time. Then i was a temporary float for 4 years full time. I really liked every part of it. The “worst” part was that the dental patients would ask “do you like temping? Wouldn’t you want to be at an office?” This bothered me because I really liked temping. I got so many positive affirmations because the office needed help and i got to help them.I often returned to offices and enjoyed seeing team members I remembered and in some cases (not often) i would see a patient I’ve seen before and this was kind of cool. I got to see their progress. Then I worked for the same office for 2 years hit I temped there for 2 years prior. I really loved being their because the dentist was a good friend of mine. And we had a good work relationship. The hardest part of leaving a dental office would be that there are some patients you get to know and you can’t take them with you. However, working less or even temping you can work when you want and do something fun for you on the off days. I’ve had left shoulder pain that is pretty constant now for one year. So working part time is very beneficial for this to get better and heal. Part of this I’m sure got worse when I had stopped going to the gym and during some of those times when I didn’t eat very healthy and there are other times when you just don’t get a lunch because you’re so busy with notes, a patient has more concerns, the dentist and their side is running behind.. oh there are so many reasons. But typically what most people can make in 5 days a dental hygienist can make in 2-3 days depending on the city and state they live in. I would say that if you take care of your body and get massages, practice physical therapy like working out and stretching, see a good chiropractor that works alongside physical therapists, and eat healthy. You could be in this field for a long time. Or keep up with continuing education credits + keep your license up to date, then you could have a family and come back to dental for a little bit or stay in the field until you retire. The benefits are good at most offices and often there is the perk of a really good discount on dental and you only have to pay the lab fee or pay for materials.

[@lipz1399]

​@Zi same here! I'm 18 and in my second semester of college but still don't know what career path I want to pursue but at the moment I'm somewhat considering dental hygienist. So you're not alone, good luck! :)

[@deadweight305]

Really appreciate the perspective!

[@InnovationTree]

That shoulder pain could be imbalanced hormons - check out your progesterone as that was the answer to my sisters shoulder pain.

[@EthalaRide]

This seems like such a good job for me. Right now I'm currently working as a grocery pickup associate at a large chain, and this seems like SUCH a better way to make a living wage and give me the flexibility to pursue other things I'm passionate about, like my art, or have a family.

[@thegracklepeck]

I want time to pursue hobbies too, hence why this looks like the perfect career! You get to help people, do something interesting, get paid well, and have plenty of time for family, friends, etc.

[@camilamedinacubillos9201]

OMG 💘

[@gabriellanosa1342]

SAME I RELATE WITH THIS

[@donte339]

How’d this work for ya?

[@kentyiluminada7676]

do you guys know what the prerequisites are?

[@candice1970]

I have been a hygienist for over 10 years in Canada. I definitely agree with those pros. Helping people everyday is so rewarding, especially when you get to see results of their oral health improve. The cons however can be a burden. The stress of taking a sick day is definitely one of them. Another, thinking over long term is not having any benefits. VERY FEW offices will offer any health benefits (besides dental benefits of course) or retirement savings options. Another issue is (I agree) body breakdown. Now since the pandemic in Canada not all offices are equipped to be allowed to use cavitron ( or our power tools) so everything is done by hand...ALL day. It is very stressful on the hands and body. Although there are some cons, all jobs have them. And dental hygiene is a rewarding and respectable career.

[@TeethTalk]

totally agree! thank you so much for watching and commenting kind :)

[@kaylaperkins8309]

I'm 22 and have a bad lower back from sports. Do you think going into this career would cause more back pain?

[@candice1970]

@@kaylaperkins8309 yes I do think it would cause an existing issue to be worse. But, I would talk to your doctor or a physiotherapist maybe. There may be things you can do to prevent it.

[@michite7435]

I have been a hygienist for 18 years. This definitely takes a toll on your body. This year I needed surgery on my left shoulder...I do exercise, but nothing crazy. About 2 years ago I felt a sharp pain in my shoulder.. .and I put off seeing the doctor. I needed a shoulder debridement, bone spur removal and bicep tendon detach, and reattach. Don't know what exactly caused this...but I assume years of hygiene. But good new is 2months off and physical therapy I'm able to work again!

[@mua10]

Do you work full time tho? I'm applying for the program this fall..but only intend to work 3 days a week...not sure if it's the right career for me bc of so many folks saying it takes a toll on your body

[@michite7435]

@Vikki Mua yes I worked 4-5 days a week for 17 years. Now I work 2-4 days a week. I enjoy being a hygienist. I don't know what else I would have done.

[@kentyiluminada7676]

@@mua10do you know what the prerequisites are to get in the program

[@okayyeah9745]

I feel this anyway and I’m not a hygienist

[@artrra]

Right on point!! I’m an artist and dental hygienists, I only contact as a temp now and this allows me to integrate my creativity into my hygiene practice. 🙌🏽 🤷🏾‍♀️ You make some fantastic points!

[@yleanafermin3126]

I love this that’s my goals !

[@hediyeh7853]

Do you think it is possible to be a singer and dental hygenist at the same time ? Does this job has this flexibility to take some time off whenever you want and go for singing ?

[@sashbrown9344]

@@hediyeh7853 u can choose when u want to work

[@tirea277]

This is exactly what I want to do! By artist do you mean freelancer or do you have a studio you work for?

[@mariamasecobanjai8444]

I am actually a dental hygienist specialised in geriatrics in the Netherlands. I drive around the whole country to see patients with dementia in elderly homes. I actually work from home once a week since we have lots of admin! I also have a leading role within the business and need to make lots of calls, send emails and have online meetings. So it IS possible to partly work from home.

[@iteaire]

His does the pay compare in the Netherlands to the States, if I meat ask? The US average is about $30usd an hr.

[@mariamasecobanjai8444]

@@iteaire it depends on what type of job you have, but i earn more than 30 dollars

[@jamieday550]

Thanks for your video. I'm a single mom working as RDA and taking pre-reqs for dental hygiene, hoping and praying to finish my classes next year and start applying for the program. This video is very helpful and important to know the pros and cons in this field.

[@TeethTalk]

thank you so much for watching! sending all the positive toothy vibes your way! you got this!

[@stephaniegar1006]

Hi Whitney again! First off let me start by saying as a future DH and current DA, your right every job has their pros and cons. I feel that people who are more on the independent side will enjoy DH better because of the freedom you get! I do believe it is a repetitive job, but not everyone's mouth is the same! Keep up with your videos I truly enjoy watching them to compare my experiences I currently face haha!

[@TeethTalk]

hello!!!! thank you so much for watching! and commenting! sending positive toothy vibes your way on your DH journey :)

[@naturallyxkat]

i just applied for the dental hygiene program. I pray I get in. Thank you for this video!!

[@TeethTalk]

sending all the positive toothy vibes your way :) :) :)

[@l.r.2652]

What made you choose that profile?

[@claudiavlogs1281]

Me too

[@tikamystique434]

Me too, finished my pre-requisites and applied to the program. I can't wait to get in 🙂

[@naturallyxkat]

@@tikamystique434 Good luck queen, I will be praying you get in!❤️

[@Geeku00g]

You make dental hygienist sound like a good azz job the con ain’t even cons fr💯

[@jamiep4644]

***Must mention the con of running by the clock! I often feel like there isn’t enough time for some people and depending on the office, they expect/want more than is reasonable in the time allotted... plus running behind all day is stressful. I find the clock to be the worst part of my job... even though I still love what I do ❤️

[@TeethTalk]

YESSSSSSS SO SO SO SO TRUE TIME IS SOOOO STRESSFUL! couldn't agree more!

[@c8lin81]

This is my least favorite part of hygiene as well! ALWAYS looking at the clock and mentally computing how much more time I have to scale! Or watching the clock filled with stress during a talkative Dr. exam!

[@jamiep4644]

@@c8lin81 Exactly!!! The clock is not my friend and I joke with patients about this all day long lol

[@asiastankus2157]

This would be so hard for me! Being “late” or the feeling of running out of time is so stressful for me. Do you have techniques for keeping calm when you feel you’re running behind?

[@jamiep4644]

@@asiastankus2157 sorry I don’t. You just have to hustle and work as fast as you can to try and catch up/stay on time and often my lunch is what I use to catch up or go to the bathroom. Years of practice and you’ll just get used to it but it will suck regardless… plus if someone is overdue then it’s ok to bring them back to finish since they need it… and better to do that then a crap job that 6 months later they are wondering why it hurts more than when they were overdue (because you’re trying to finish something that you rushed through 6 months prior and the gingiva will be tender…)… anyways. It is what it is in our field 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@danielazcorra4020]

Wow, to be honest I really want to be a dental hygienist..... Greetings from Mexico!

[@TeethTalk]

thank you for watching! would love to visit Mexico one day! greetings :) :) :)

[@nezemi2893]

I’m interested in being a dental hygienist so I did some research to make sure if this is something I want to do long term and at the same time also pays good. I thought after watching this video I would no longer be interested but I got complete opposite, in fact it seems I would actually enjoy this field and the cons are not so bad comparing the Veterinarian Field, and I was expecting worse but instead got a HUGE relief. thank you for sharing! This actually helped me want to continue to be a Dental hygienist❤

[@chelseahancock6933]

You seem to really love your job! I’m hoping to start dental hygienist school soon, the medical field has always fascinated me but I’ve recently discovered my love for oral health

[@tamb7587]

Im a career hygienist of over 20 years. In the past being a dental hygienist was a prestigious job. Due to dentistry moving into a more corporate direction that has all changed not only for Hygienist but for dentist as well. In a private practice I would see about eight patients a day but private practices are quickly disappearing. New corporate offices are wanting Hygienist to see as many as 16 patients a day which is utterly ridiculous, even if all you’re doing is just cleaning the teeth and Assistants are doing everything else. Hygiene is a very physically demanding job, in your young years it won’t be so bad but sitting in one position twisted to one side leaning over and holding that for 30 minutes at a time is very hard on a persons body and you will quickly start to have some sort of physical issues. I know this because I have lots of friends who are Hygienist who are experiencing all types of neck, back and shoulder problems. Also you are treated with zero respect it is more like a Cattlecall , herd them in and heard them out . I know offices that don’t even take lunch breaks. Can you imagine going to college as a dentist or dental hygienist and you’re working like somebody in a sweatshop instead of having any prestige that your education should demand? I am not bitter I was lucky to get in and out of the career at the right time but I would no longer recommend it to anyone.

[@leebrown2243]

lololol talk about not getting the prestige your education should demand, try being a social worker, we don't even get the pay our education should demand 🤣🤣

[@furlove2112]

Tam B I totally agree with you.

[@tamb7587]

@@leebrown2243 I totally agree

[@anitaknight3915]

@@leebrown2243 Omggggg huni you aren't lying!!! What we deal with and how many people we help and the pay is a disgrace!!! We went to school much longer than these shorter degree programs to be paid less and not get the respect we deserve. I'm a clinical mental health counselor and already debating if I can even stay in this profession.

[@anitaknight3915]

@@tamb7587 thank you for sharing your thoughts, insights, and experiences. I've noticed this as well that they have moved into big corporate chains with dentistry & orthodontics moving people in through cattle. Many dentists are miserable who started in private practice have been bought. I remember the comfort of going to the same dentist & few hygienists who personally cared and built a rapport with me & my family much of my life. Now you see multiple dentists and hygienists each time within the same office! And the costs have skyrocketed and barely anything is covered by insurance. Glad you're out now : ). I would tell you counselors/social workers in my field deal with SO much negatives too along with nursing also.

[@crystalf9633]

I'm So glad I found an RDH on good old KZbin! I've come to realize YT is a good source for someone like myself who is on the fence about career paths. I'm weighing my options between becoming an registered nurse and dental hygienist. I want to do something in the health field, but I can't put my finger on what to do. Thanks so much or your informative videos.

[@TeethTalk]

thank you for watching and wishing you the best on your career journey!!!

[@carlydae712]

I love your positivity. I'm applying for the program at my school this December 😬 your videos really reassured me this is what I wanna do :)

[@TeethTalk]

YAY! this makes me so happy! sending you ALL the positive toothy vibes on your dental journey :) you got this!

[@ashleis4070]

Thanks for the video. The only part that scares me is the body breakdown

[@dirtbikes2545]

Same 😪

[@c8lin81]

Graduated hygiene school in 2005... it's real! Practice good ergonomics from the get go and don't get into bad habits!

[@all_is_well_Mara]

You help me with my fear of dentists etc 😭 And did you know that I recognised your voice from when I was in a coma? And then some time later, I thought your voice sounded familiar. And now I’m watching all your video 😄🤩💖

[@TeethTalk]

whaaaaat!!!!!? what what?! please dm me (@teethtalkgirl on IG) and tell me your story! so thankful you're here watching :)

[@all_is_well_Mara]

Teeth Talk Girl Haha ok, I sent you a DM 😄

[@tiffanyfish4679]

Your pros got me but your cons backed me up again... That's a hard one.

[@rikki8157]

Thank you for making such positive, educational and short videos that get right to the point! Really appreciate being able to watch and learn from all of these! ✌️💜 🦷

[@TeethTalk]

THANK YOU so much for saying this. I'm so happy to hear this! Sending all the positive toothy vibes your way :)

[@darinka4482]

Going to school to become a dental hygienist in the spring I’m super excited and nervous and trying to learn more about the profession and what is expected!

[@TeethTalk]

yay! you got this! wishing you the best toothy journey!

[@ashleyzielke3072]

Whitney, I would be very interested in seeing a video discussing treating patients that need SRP. I see mostly regular prophy patients at my office, and I feel like I need a refresher. Saying that, I haven't gotten the chance to do local anesthesia, and I REALLY would love a video all about that. ❤

[@TeethTalk]

Yesssss! Agreed! I've been trying to find a patient willing to let me film their SRP off hours :) Still working on it! Thank you! As for local anesthesia - also planning to work on that video soon too!!! Until then, "Hygiene Edge" offers GREAT videos on their KZbin channel! Hope this helps :)

[@ashleyzielke3072]

@@TeethTalk you are awesome! Thank you so much! And thank you for always taking the time to reply to my comments :)

[@navydentalchic]

There is also employment with the military. I was an assistant on active duty then became a dental hygienist for the military as a civilian. 20 Years in total 😃

[@Marie-wc7kt]

Thanks for this I’m in the military but going to get out and become a hygienist.

[@TeethTalk]

YES!!! thank you for this insight! sending positive vibes your way!

[@tuntunhlaing2560]

Thanks .U really made my decision clear to study dental hygiene in college

[@emranrababah9094]

am a biotechnology student am going to double my major after this video to be dental hygienist ,thank you for the info

[@kev9599]

Kind of feel weird with all the amount of women in the comments while i'm the only guy from what I can see 😂 currently doing my general eds/prereqs. hoping to join the DH program next year! By the way I really like your content. Along with doing my own research, I can honestly say you've inspired and encouraged me to pursue this as my career choice. Thank you! 😬

[@TeethTalk]

don't feel weird! guys are hygienists, too! thank you for being here and your kindness. I truly appreciate it and wish you the best on your DH journey! looking forward to your joining the DH world!!!

[@djgales97]

Im a guy taking pre reqeqs for hygiene too. Don’t worry you’re not alone 😂.

[@kev9599]

J G haha good to know. how are the prereqs in terms of difficulty for you?

[@djgales97]

Kev LA not too bad Right now I’m in my 3rd semester going part time. So I’m just really getting into my science classes.

[@bishouneng415]

This is late but watching this video to get inspirations if I ever wanna pursue in dental career. My dad wants me to be a nurse and i dont think its for me. Also im a guy lol.

[@lynsan1507]

I know this video discusses pros and cons of being a dental hygienist but i wanted to bring up the vast difference in pay. Of course pay will differ based on where you live, education and all that but in my town, as a dental assistant i make $17/hr. I have met other dental assistants that make up to $25 after many years. Workers at the local costco make about $25/hr and more. I feel like dental assistant pay isn't going up even though cost of living has gone up over the years. Maybe it's just in my area but i am not sure. At my current office i get paid $17/hr and the hygienist makes at the very minimum $60/hr. On a daily basis we do about 80% of the same work. We do all the start of day things, take xrays, do prophys, break down rooms. I have noticed this at other offices as well. I have been a hygiene assistant in the past for a few years as well and i was always stumped at how much of a difference in pay there. I am looking into going into the dental Hygiene program and i would recommend it for anyone looking into it as well. I love working with patients, being super busy, and after you get used to it, the tasks are pretty easy. I am 35 years old and honestly wish i had started when i was younger. The big pay bump makes all the hard days worth it!

[@freakilybean]

Could you make a video talking about different schools that offer programs?

[@powermed5033]

I love you so much the way you share you stories

[@BreezyW100]

I love being RDH 💙💙💙 I do not love not having any scheduled breaks... and no benefits.

[@TeethTalk]

amen to that!

[@noahlester5993]

I’m 19 and I already have bad back problems and I’ve never even worked

[@publicmaster7383]

I’m about to go to SJVC college for an associate degree in this field hopefully it’s worth it !!!

[@TeethTalk]

wishing you the best on your DH journey :) you got this!

[@publicmaster7383]

@@TeethTalk thank you

[@eliathomsen6596]

I’m more concerned if I have to deal with needles and stitches

[@josueabarca1913]

Im thinking about taking 2 years of dental hygienist in NoVA college

[@jasminevelasco3506]

I’m struggling to find what to do with my life- I’m currently 25 and I’m a dental assistant and I hate the doctor I work with. I love the other girls in the office but the office front desk girls are hardly there and the hygienist in the office is the only one in the office but she always discourages me from becoming a hygienist because “it’s just not worth it” sometimes she loves her job and sometimes she doesn’t but I feel like she mostly hates it because of the doctor and the front desk will sometimes over pack her schedule or won’t give enough time for a patient when they need more time. I’m struggling between choosing dental hygienist and going into the tech field since there’s always gonna be jobs and it’s paid well. I would love any advice anyone can give.

[@maryva867]

I am only just starting to look into dental hygiene as a career option (I still am trying to settle on something (tbh, all I want is to have a family)). Anyway, I do know there are a lot of good offices out there to work for. Working at a crappy one is definitely tough and can sway your decision about the job itself. However, no one is obligated to stay in a job that doesn't bring them joy or peace. But, I'd say, don't be afraid to look around at other dental offices for a job if you love what you do. Take some time to do a little research and then go for it (personal connections are gold for finding good jobs). And don't feel bad leaving an office that has a crappy work environment, that's their problem, not yours :) I recently heard someone say, "build your career around your life and not your life around your career. Find out what you want your day-day life to look like and go from there, and don't worry about the Debbie-downers, it's your life not theirs". This blew me away, because all I hear is, what do you want to do? what do you want to do? what do you want to do? and not how do you want to live? Sending hugs girly, feeling stuck is the worst! Ad Majoram Dei Gloriam

[@emilyowen8589]

Thank you SO much for this video! Vey useful!!

[@GarryBurgess]

Pro: you are more likely to take excellent care of your own teeth; Pro: you're doing very meaningful work; Pro: you can be a KZbin star by educating others as well; Pro: you know exactly what to do every day; Pro: your education is directly useful to your career; Pro: you meet a lot of people every day; Pro: people look up to you; Pro: you never waste a lot of time, being productive is built into the job; Pro: you work in a pleasant indoor environment; Pro: your job is not degrading

[@kadeembell4023]

How difficult was dental hygiene school for you?

[@TeethTalk]

luckily, for me, it wasn't as bad as my undergrad! before DH school I got my bachelors in Biology and that was a wild ride! but, of course DH school had it's stressors too! here is a video about that if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/faKmfHxprbJrpsk

[@joshuanavarro2734]

@@TeethTalk I’m currently majoring in bio it’s my freshman year but considering being a dental hygienist. Did you’re bio degree help you with your Dental hygiene degree?

[@janiyaaliza9344]

I can't wait for u to get 60k to 100k subscribers I'm so so happy

[@TeethTalk]

THANK YOU for saying that! So supportive! I appreciate you :)

[@taylorshai]

Thank you!! This video was very helpful. Im a dental assistant looking to moving forward.

[@TeethTalk]

yay! you got this! sending positive vibes your way on your toothy journey :)

[@GTPressure]

Brah im stuck between dental hygiene or dentist :C

[@TeethTalk]

totally both great options! here is my video about the differences between the two careers - hope this helps: teethtalkgirl.com/videos/dentist-versus-dental-hygienist?rq=dentist%20dental%20hygienist

[@ajshelby135]

Teeth Talk Girl after getting a diploma in dental hygienist,, how long will it take to become a dentist ,,6 years?

[@Airtouch67]

Last office I was at they schedulef 25-28 patients per day for the RDH. I'll bet you are doing 8-10.

[@MrDbone75]

Good afternoon everyone from wellington Somerset in the UK

[@TeethTalk]

good evening from the US :) thank you so much for watching!!!

[@janiyaaliza9344]

U always comment that lol

[@nena9402]

You can screen for sleep apnea

[@dudehere1981]

I should do a vlog about the pros and cons of being an accountant. Pro: stable, good salaries awesome benefits and it's stable. Con: Can be boring and you just do Excel spreadsheets all day. I wanted to be a dentist but I failed bio and chemistry in college. Numbers made way more sense.

[@jacobwurst]

Hey any update on this? I would like to listen to that. Personally been thinking about accounting or dental hygiene. Or just going into the trades. I would hate to choose one then down the road realize I made a big mistake.

[@nynyjohnson1]

This was great! Best KZbin video! Straight forward and informative

[@karinaoliveira3988]

I am a DH for the past 5 years and the only CON that I can think of is the fact that there is no potential for Growth. I should have done nursing instead where a registered nurse can go back to school and become a nurse practitioner and have their own business. I don’t like being an employee and I want to have my own business. Nursing can give you this growth and independence. DH are always working under the supervision of a dentist. I am Cindy going back to school for nursing.

[@emzhaek]

I'm currently in my 3rd year doing dental hygiene and therapy after working as a nurse for 2 years and I defo agree with most of your pros and cons. I'm curious about the screening for sleep apnea? I didn't know that was a thing

[@TeethTalk]

yes!!!!! there are CE courses on it available! they are super basic but I've taken a few and love learning about the things we can point out to the patient and have them mention to their physician at their next doc appt!

[@emzhaek]

@@TeethTalk wow!! Thank you so much, that's awesome I'll look into it to 🧡🦷

[@kaylaperkins8309]

What about nursing did you not like?

[@emzhaek]

@@kaylaperkins8309 hi, well for me, the practice i was in was amazing but a lot of the time I felt very looked down on by the dentists and the older nurses that had been there for 15+ years, it made me want to quit so bad but the actual nursing was fun! I just felt I could always do a bit more, be a bit more in control maybe

[@jadewu111]

I really miss those teeth earrings on you 😂

[@TeethTalk]

they'll be back!!!! thank you for watching :)

[@e113jelly6]

Very helpful thank u

[@millie758]

Hi! Do you start of at a higher salary if you have a pre existing bachelors degree like psychology? I’m in my first year of Dental Hygiene school! It’s been crazy learning to work in this field during a pandemic. 🙃🦷 Love your channel by the way!

[@TeethTalk]

hey friend! sending you all the positive vibes on your DH journey! generally most dental offices will not offer pay increases for dental hygienists with bachelor degrees - however having a bachelors will open the door to many other job opportunities within the field of DH! I actually have a video all about this if you want more info: teethtalkgirl.com/rdh/dental-hygiene-associates-degree-vs-bachelors-degree?rq=bachelors

[@indiiflores7715]

how often do you work part time? is it 20 hours at least? do you get paid even if. a patient doesn’t show up or are you forced to clock out?

[@carlysomers5253]

Hi there! Just discovered your channel and I LOVE it, thank you for sharing all this amazing content. I'm 29 and work a corporate job at a desk all day and REALLY want to change my career. I'm thinking about a career as a dental hygienist since this is something I've always been interested in but somehow never actually tried to do. Is it too late? Do you have to start at young age in order to make this a reality?

[@VanessaGarcia-kg4wo]

Nope :) not at all. Go for it.

[@AC-bq3wg]

Currently in HS and looking into becoming a hygienist but I also want to open a business later on lol

[@TeethTalk]

some states allow dental hygienists to own their own clinics!!! :)

[@courtie8375]

I'm starting my dental assistant courses soon. I really want to be a hygienist, but it isn't offered where I'm going. Do you think there could be bridge programs between the two?

[@safehavensquad9944]

Please let me know if you've found an answer

[@michaelharris2828]

I'm a freshman about to start this October. Thanks for the information ❤

[@TeethTalk]

yay!!! wishing you the best toothy journey!!!!!

[@htfcm]

That Midwest accent is so strong. Sounds like Chicago.

[@TeethTalk]

you know it :)

[@darlenehodas5877]

Hi Whitney, I am working in two different offices for one dentist. It’s been a longggg time since I worked in dental office. I was a dental hygienist when we wrote our notes in a paper file. But, now I have two systems to learn to write my notes in. One in Practiceworks and the other is dentrix. I am loosing my mind. I thought maybe a video in different computer software systems with how to write notes ( using a template) and how to take bitewings and fmx with different systems. Thank you for listening. Thank thank you

[@Fletch_18]

Great video. Your teeth are amazing, I guess they'd need to be in your line of work, but they are beautiful.

[@billn.1318]

Most of these are right. But if you worked in south Orange County ca as an assistant or hygienist ... and a male? Good luck. You'll find most white dentist (who also owns the practice) hire only white female dental assistants. Some practices outside of OC will have Hispanic dentists who hire an equal balance of male and female dentist. There are also culturally leaning dental practices so if you work for a Persian dentist, you'll notice most of the staff are Persian. I was a male dental assistant turned hygienist and I worked for 4 practices. I was fortunate enough to work in a thriving upscale practice and I worked for those practices for several years. I was young enough to quit and move away from the dental field when the practices became monotonous and eventually the owner retired and sold the practice and I was poised to apply for other places. Hired but it was not the same. To last In this field, you need a good staff who will work with you and enjoy working with the staff and patients. If you don't have those, you will feel like days seem to repeat itself over and over again. My best friend who was an assistant many years ago became a dentist and has his own practice now. He was a goofball and now runs a thriving practice because I told him the secret to a thriving practice is to have fun at the place you work. Fri are Starbucks days. He will deliver Starbucks to all his staff. he has staff meetings each morning and just talk about patients for that day and he would make jokes in between. He also has a mandatory 1hr lunch each day and a 15 minute break every 3 hrs. He has a total of 8 staff , 2 are male assistants. That is a successful practice. Sadly, You won't find this anywhere from anyone.

[@jacobwurst]

This right here makes me just forget about considering DH as a career… lol I’ll keep considering different fields or maybe the trades it is… gotta choose something soon

[@jacobwurst]

What field did you pursue after dentistry?

[@vitaminwater6235]

Just got my cleaned today heck yea

[@ewateciorowski9293]

Wouldn't recommend it being a dental hygienist for 20 years due to the lack of benefits, body breakdown and dentists being usually pretty frugal with compensation

[@Jenfiaa]

I totally agree. The Body breakdown is a big con.

[@gabbymartino7703]

I just got accepted into my DH program after 4 years and the course work is killing me. Any advice?

[@ashleyrosario4596]

Hi im struggling in deciding if I want to work towards becoming a dental hygienist. I really suck at science and its mainly based on it. I am scared any advice?

[@TeethTalk]

you got this! I actually have a video all about that! hope this helps: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGOyiKWioZ1jY7s

[@alexiahammond5051]

You do not need to be a science-wiz to be a good dental hygienist, however, getting through dental hygiene school requires you to pass classes that are heavy in anatomy and physiology. I would take the A&P pre-requisites, if you really struggle and do not enjoy these classes, school will be tough for you, if you can’t see yourself doing anything else and are really passionate about it then it won’t matter. I think you need to ask yourself why you want to be a dental hygienist. If your why is strong the how is not going to be an issue.

[@piranhaparran3007]

Thank you kindly

[@robustsshadow]

Thank. You

[@ddangerous]

In my province dental hygiene program is only a diploma

[@bethanywinters5122]

Have you ever done any temp work? I’m a second year dental hygiene student and I was thinking of temping once done with school to see what offices I like best, but I also considered going full time temp. What are your thoughts?

[@ashlynnbailey7910]

I know mouths can be nasty, so how long does it take you to get used to that.. the smells and sights etc..

[@Bigred338]

She is speaking But i am just watching her hair😍😍😍

[@meimeijiang353]

They told me hygienist it’s a dead end and very mentally and physically required… I saw posts online I am terrified …

[@oxxMUDxxo]

I'm working on a associate's degree in college is that enough to become a dental hygienist? Will I have to do additional schooling after college?

[@TeethTalk]

You can get either an associates or bachelors in dental hygiene. You can get more information on the options on my "dental careers" page on my website: teethtalkgirl.com/rdh Wishing you the best!

[@lydiaw4628]

Do you have to pass boards every year, or just when you graduate? If I went to dental hygiene school but then worked as a dental assistant, would it be difficult to work as a dental hygienist again?

[@TeethTalk]

just when you graduate! unless you are moving and plan to work in a different state from which you were originally licensed in!

[@haleygrace7498]

I’m currently in Dental hygiene school but what to move to another state when I’m done. What is the easiest way to do this?

[@seannewoods2296]

My eye won't shut... and my nostril is blocked after anesthesia it kind of made it hard to. Breathe through my nose when they asked me to, so the dentist could work on my teeth. Not being able to breathe is a problem buy why does it hapoen?

[@chlochlo8207]

Subscribed

[@TeethTalk]

thanks for being here!

[@ericaa.8089]

Do dental hygiene prerequisites take longer to do at a four year college than a two year? Also do you have to take the dental hygiene prereqs at an accredited dental hygiene school?

[@TeethTalk]

it depends on the school and program! for your second question, however, generally the prerequisites can be from any school. always check the program's requirements of which you're applying to confirm. also - I have a page on my website all about the different schooling routes and options. hope this helps: teethtalkgirl.com

[@gabe7763]

i am a male, is it weird for a guy to be a RDH? that's the main thing im worried about.

[@TeethTalk]

not at all weird! here's my "male hygienists" video -- hope this helps:kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXXMmYdrZrSVerc

[@gabe7763]

@@TeethTalk thank you I’ll check it out 💙

[@joshmartinez2949]

Is dental hygiene a good career path for men or just for women ?

[@TeethTalk]

both men and woman!

[@jolie0921]

I have a question about the license that you were speaking of (I’m still in school but this job highly interests me). If I do plan to work elsewhere, different state from my current residence, can I finish my schooling in one state and then go for the license in another? Or would I need to move there to study before I finish my schooling to get my license in that state. Like college and after college programs before getting the license.

[@cheerobsessed2013]

Question about the part time portion. Are there still opportunities to get health insurance with part time? And are most hygienists salary or hourly?

[@kathycassity9896]

I am a dental ass't. of 37 years, and I could never take x-rays all day long ad nauseam! I chose assisting for this reason! The only thing I do not like about assisting, is that nearly every hygienist I've worked with, have, at one time or another, insinuated that the only reason a person would become an assistant, over a hygienist, is because they aren't SMART enough! It's highly insulting, and absolutely not true.

[@dariaharruff7025]

i love dental hygiene i wish i could become a RDH

[@pkumar5411]

Good energy but right at the start of the video - you were clear that this job is not the job to do, perhaps a more positive start would have helped.

[@jaybaez8634]

So here's the thing, I'm a psychology major senior year and I'm realizing that psychology just isn't for me. Do you know if I can apply my credits towards a dental hygenist program? I don't have the best grades either. Thanks!

[@cocoa2432]

Literally me too I am studying psych and I don’t really like it. Have you chosen this career path? How is it going? I am really searching for advice because I am on the same boat haha…

[@aleishatheisen7081]

What a rewarding career. Do hygienists deal with burnout with all those long busy days?

[@mohamedmohamed7054]

im doing generals now and i wanted to ask how long before i become a hygienist

[@Izzy-vb8rv]

Wait I hv a quick question. So I brush daily with charcoal toothpaste and floss every other day or so but I hv yellow teeth and some of my teeth are darker than other and even between the teeth its darker. I haven't got braces yet but these darker spots really mess with my confidence in smiling. How do I fix this? And what is this?

[@TeethTalk]

we generally do not recommend charcoal toothpaste. also - we recommend visiting your dentist for an exam to better asses your question. hope this helps! sending positive vibes your way.

[@Greeneggsandham123]

No charcoal toothpaste!!!! Very abrasive and scratches off your enamel!!

[@Josephp1983]

I’ve been a full-time RDH in Manhattan NYC for almost 13 years. I’ve had a great career and make a very good salary. My MAIN issue with hygiene is the inability to move forward with “advanced practice”. I understand some states have “direct access” but in NY, We should be able to go back to school and get our masters/doctorate degrees and be afforded the opportunity to co-own or own into a dental practice with or without a dentist. We are way too controlled by the dentists here and they use us as their primary source of income in exchange for 20-25% of what we typically produce. Its a dead end career in my opinion. Sorry :(

[@nikkimia2976]

Do you know any information regarding international details? For example, I am interested in pursuing dental hygiene but I am also really interested in traveling and some day living in a different country besides America. Do you think becoming a dental hygienist could accommodate to this goal of mine since mouth care is a common and worldly thing ?

[@akashrajpar8318]

Great

[@firstnamelastname904]

I'm in school to become a dental hygienist, will I be able to move states one day? I wanted to when I get older but I'm worried, I don't want to go through all of this school for nothing 😭

[@marn8900]

I’m considering to change over to this career the career I’m going for I just don’t understand it at all, any tips or anything?

[@TeethTalk]

I actually have an informational career hub on my website hope this helps: teethtalkgirl.com/rdh

[@marn8900]

@@TeethTalk omg thank you so much!! I’m going to check it out! 😊

[@tayloruxuii]

hi whitney! are dental hygienists drug tested pre-employment or randomly during work? thanks!

[@butterflygirl4771]

Heyy if I don't have straight teeth😢?I wanna be a dentist hygienist but bu teeth is not straight and I can't afford bracers