Career Changes Support Group

This community is dedicated to the difficult challenges of transitioning from one career or job to a new one. Especially as we grow older, it can be very difficult to acquire the skills and relationships and take the financial risk to make the switch.

968 Members

653 Posts

0 Online

Puddinsparkleytoes 01/02/2009

If you read my previous post, you know I'm at a crossroads in my career. I gave it many years but I may have to change careers because my husband and I both work in the same field and it has stalled my own career path.

I have been considering a career as a Dental Hygenist. There are various reasons for the choice, one of which is it only requires 2 years of schooling. Another reason is I would NOT have to take a huge setback financially should I persue this.

I'm sure other Career Changers know what I mean when you get used to a good salary, it is daunting to look at lesser paying careers, even if you are persuing something you are interested in.

Are there any Dental Hygenists (or others) out there who can offer advice?

Is 2 years of schooling all that is required or are job prospects better with more schooling?

Is there a future with good job prospects and pay or is the field becoming flooded?

Do the dentists offer Medical, Dental, Life insurance and retirement or do you pay it yourself?

Any other thoughts or advice??

Thank you!

soulsearcher83 01/05/2009

I have a friend that became a dental hygenist. We went to the same school. It took her 2 years to complete and she is very satisfied with the work. As for job prospects and benefits, I don't know but most careers in health care are going to offer good job prospects and I think all offer benefits. You should contact your dentist and ask him/her some questions. Even speak to the dental hygenist on the phone if he/she picks up about it. Check out the occupational outlook handbook. Here is the link to the one about dental hygenists. Good luck.!

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos097.htm

Puddinsparkleytoes 01/09/2009

Thanks for the response.

I've been reading a few Dental Hygenist forums and so far, it seems that there are more complaining about lack of job prospects and low salary than there are people who are doing well with this career.

It's confusing when the Bureau of Labor Statistics paints such a rosy picture for the future, yet the people in the trenchs tell a different story. What is a person to believe?

I realize there are always going to be naysayers and complainers but GEEZ!!! Most of the posters on those dental forums portray a very bleak outlook for their future in that field.

It is daunting when you want to try for a new career yet hear more negatives than positives. Not many of us can afford to go to school for 2 years only to have trouble finding employment in that field. :(:(

soulsearcher83 01/10/2009

Some people just want to b*tch about their lives or career and they use the internet. Contact the program director of the college you want to go to and find out how to contact alumnis of their program. Ask them what they think about the program and the career. That will be your best indicator.

Join the Conversation