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AIBU?

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AIBU to consider retraining as a Dental Hygienist?!

80 replies

NellesVilla · 05/05/2022 17:49

Posting for more traffic, thanks:-

Hello,

I’ve been interested in retraining as a Dental Hygienist for yonks, now, but am still none the wiser on how to go about it, in layman’s terms.

I’ve heard of 2 and 3 year degrees and diplomas, but would like the quickest route possible. I’m a mature student and a graduate in a non-related subject (art) and an ex-teacher, neither of which I wish to work in ever again. Does anyone know if I could do a 2 year training, please?

For full disclosure, I have no experience in this industry, and have mainly teaching, tutoring and plenty of care experience which may be better than nothing at all, when it comes to dealing with patients and showing I have experience with bodily functions and am not as squeamish as some (I am actually quite squeamish really, tbh!).

Financially, only a 2 year training would work for me, so I’d love to know if it were possible. I am a good student- love learning and studying- (and also family-free), so the commitment and level of study would not be an issue for me.

I am aware I may need more A-levels as well (science obviously), so would get to work on that ASAP, with hopes of applying for entry for late 2023 or 2024, if possible.

Thanks for reading, and for any advice, even realistic, sobering words!

OP posts:
unhappyhygienist · 05/05/2022 18:23

What is it about being a hygienist that appeals to you? Sorry I’m to be a Debbie downer here, but I’d seriously consider talking to some hygienists to get an idea of what the job actually entails. I’ve been a hygienist for ten years, was a dental nurse for a couple of years before that and currently in the process of retraining to enter another field as I am miserable.
It’s a very repetitive job, I see 20 patients per day back to back, if I take a couple of minutes between patients to grab a quick drink I’m then left with complaints of “oh I paid for 30 minutes and only got 25”. My neck/back/shoulders/wrists are in constant agony, repetitive stain injuries are really common.
The money I earn is not bad, most hygienists will be on around 35-40% of what is brought in by the patient. However I’ve been doing it 10 years and have built up a loyal patient base, in can take years to build up a busy book. If a patient doesn’t show up for their appointment or cancels last minute you won’t get paid. In addition almost all hygienists are self employed, so no sick pay, maternity pay etc.
I have some wonderful patients that I really look forward to seeing, but I do have days that make me want to cry. I’ve been spat at, called so many offensive names, never happened to me but I have friends who’ve been assaulted by patients… you’re treating people who are often anxious or in pain so unfortunately brings out the worst in many people.
Anyway sorry I could bang on and on about the bad aspects, I’ll try and return later with some more positive info and some answers to your actual question!

SaggyBlinders · 05/05/2022 18:12

@WoodenClock

Where do you live?! Mine charges £60!

@MadameCholetsDirtySecret

I think it would be so satisfying though, I'm a nurse and love cleaning peoples neglected dentures 🤣

MadameCholetsDirtySecret · 05/05/2022 18:07

There are some very good videos on YouTube showing dental hygienists at work. It isn’t for the faint hearted!

WoodenClock · 05/05/2022 18:05

Yes, go for it. My hygienist has just put prices up to £95 for 45 mins and you still can't get booked until 2 months ahead!

SaggyBlinders · 05/05/2022 18:03

www.bangor.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/b751-dental-hygiene

2 year course at Bangor University in Wales. If you commit to working in Wales for 2 years after qualifying then they may also pay your fees and give you a £1000 bursary a year.

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