For many, one of the most important factors when making a career choice is work-life balance. Some jobs require so much attention they take time away from enjoying other pleasures of life. If you are considering a career with a good work-life balance, then becoming a dental hygienist might be the choice for you.
Multiple factors must be considered when judging dental hygienist work-life balance, including total hours worked per week, schedule flexibility, stress levels, job fulfilment and compensation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about half of dental hygienists worked part-time in 2014. Dentists tend to hire hygienists to work only a few days per week. According to DentistryIQ.com, the total number of hours worked each week depends on their level of experience. For example, a dental hygienist with three or fewer years of experience typically works 35 to 45 hours, while one with three plus years’ experience work 30 to 35 hours per week. Depending on level of experience and where they work, dental hygienists can have a lot of free days and the flexibility to schedule time for themselves or personal commitments.
A career as a dental hygienist has been ranked one of the top ten least stressful jobs according to a 2011 CareerCast article. However, another article by the Department of Social Dentistry & Behavioral Sciences, titled Work Stress and Burnout, declared dental hygienists dealt with musculoskeletal pain, working without assistance and difficult/demanding patients. Just like any other job, stress can be managed by being more attentive to posture and communicating concerns to managers.
Dental Hygienists Job Fulfillment
Dental hygienists tend to have a very fulfilling job because they help others have healthy smiles. Also, they spend most of their day interacting with co-workers and patients, compared to other office jobs where a person in a cubicle or office might be isolated from others. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job openings for dental hygienists are projected to grow 19% over the next 10 years, which is much higher than the average for all occupations.
While every career choice has its pros and cons, we can conclude from a review of factors that a career as a dental hygienist is a satisfying one that permits a flexible schedule, provides great pay and is fulfilling.
Dental Hygienist Programs at Fortis
Fortis College prepares students to sit for a licensure exam after graduation to qualify for work as an entry-level hygienist. The program is offered in various locations throughout the nation. Learn more by visiting our site.
