Dental Hygienist Working Conditions

Dental hygienists held about 200,500 jobs in 2014. Almost all dental hygienists work in dentists’ offices, where physical working conditions are good. They work closely with dentists and dental assistants.

Because their working conditions involve extensive patient interaction, dental hygienists wear safety glasses, surgical masks, and gloves to protect themselves and patients from infectious diseases. When taking x rays they follow strict procedures to protect themselves and patients. They may spend long periods of time bending over to work on patients.

A distinctive working condition to this occupation is flexible scheduling. More than one half of dental hygienists work part time. Dentists often hire hygienists to work only a few days a week, so some hygienists work for more than one dentist. About 50 percent of hygienists worked full time in 2014.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition

Find additional occupational information below:

Dental Hygienist Duties
Dental Hygienist Work Conditions
Dental Hygienist Employment
Dental Hygienist Training
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Dental Hygienist Earnings