Considering a career as a dental hygienist?

I'm thinking about becoming a dental hygienist after high school and would like to know what the job outlook is for this profession. Are there plenty of job opportunities? I want to make sure I choose a stable career.

The field of dental hygiene is projected to grow at a substantial rate over the next decade, making it a promising career choice. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in dental hygiene is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected due to ongoing research linking oral health to general health, which will likely continue to drive an increase in demand for preventative dental services provided by dental hygienists.

That said, saturation can vary by region, so the abundance of opportunities might depend on where you live or where you're willing to move to. It would be a good idea to research the job market in the area you plan to work in after graduation. You could consider reaching out to local dental practices or joining professional dental hygiene groups online to get firsthand information.

In choosing this career path, you'd likely have the opportunity to work in various settings such as private dental offices, schools, public health clinics, hospitals, and even corporate settings. Dental hygienists also tend to have flexible scheduling options ranging from part-time, and full-time, to evening and weekend shifts, which could be a benefit depending on your lifestyle.

Remember the importance of good grades, as well as potentially getting some experience in a dental setting while still in high school, to prepare for acceptance into a Dental Hygiene Associate's degree program following high school. Education and licensing requirements can vary, so it's crucial to look into those specifics for your state as well.

In conclusion, dental hygiene appears to be a stable and promising career choice with projected growth and varied opportunities, but personal factors such as location and flexibility should also be considered.