How to Transition from being a Dental Hygienist to being a Dentist
FAQ
Is it harder to be a dentist or a dental hygienist?
Both are licensed dental professionals. Both require specialized training beyond the basic college coursework, with a doctor of dental surgery (D.D.S.) requiring more school than a registered dental hygienist (R.D.H.).
Why I left dental hygiene?
Low pay. Not feeling valued. Asked once if/when we would stop accepting new patients as we were not able to keep up with how many we already had and was basically told I would have to work more hours so the office could take on more patients whether I wanted to or not.
What can a dentist do that a hygienist Cannot?
Only a dentist can diagnose dental problems. The dentist performs fillings, extractions, and other treatment procedures. A dentist can also write prescriptions for medications such as antibiotics or painkillers, or prescription mouthwash, which a hygienist cannot do.
