Is it a good idea to look into getting an Associate degree in Dental Hygiene?
Asked by Dark Diva
I want to go to a university for an associste degree in dental hygiene. How many years will it take to get the degree? How much do they make hourly? Do the make enough money so, they won't have to have a second job? And any other advice, knowledge, and/or anything else you think I need to know about Dental Hygiene. Thanks in advance!

Best Answer:
Most schools offer a 2 yr program for an AA Degree in Dental Hygiene, however, some University offer 3 yr programs for Bachelor degree. Usually it will take about 2 yrs to complete prerequisite work which involves taking a lot of science class like Chemistry, Biology, Physiology, Microbiology, etc. The pay really depends on where you live. If you live on the east coast the pay is lower than the west coast. Also, job duties are not the same. If you live in Florida, chances are, you will not be doing anesthesia or even be trained in that area. If you live in Washington State, not only will you need to be able to give anesthesia, you will need a Restorative endorsement (be able to do fillings). I'm figuring Florida Hygienists probably make between $25 and $40 per hour, whereas Washington Hygienists make between $42 and $48 per hour which if you work 4 or 5 days per week should be enough to support yourself and maybe even a spouse. As far as second jobs go, many hygienists I know go into second careers. The reason is because hygiene is stressful on the body and sometimes due to injury or whatever they choose a different career. Some people just don't like working in other people's mouths all day long because it's dirty. Personally I am planning on getting my substitute teaching license in a couple years. The reason is because it is always smart to have a backup plan. Also, if something happens to you like a big recession, or you can't work, then you have something to fall back on. I got fired last September and I couldn't find work as a hygienist. However, I got plenty of work as a substitute teacher and I was able to pay my bills that way. (this was when I lived in San Francisco).
Dental Hygienist in Seattle
Answered by White Lotus