Traveling Dental Hygienist Salary: What You Need To Know
Greetings, fellow dental professionals and aspiring dental hygienists! If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re interested in pursuing a career as a traveling dental hygienist. As a dental hygienist myself, I understand the importance of knowing the salary expectations for a job in this field. In this article, we’ll explore the details of a traveling dental hygienist’s salary and what factors can affect it.
What is a Traveling Dental Hygienist?
Before we dive into the salary details, let’s first define what a traveling dental hygienist is. A traveling dental hygienist is a licensed dental hygienist who works on a temporary or contractual basis for different dental offices or clinics. They usually travel to different locations, providing dental hygiene services to patients who may not have access to regular dental care.
Salary Expectations
The salary of a traveling dental hygienist can vary depending on various factors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for dental hygienists in 2020 was $77,090, which is higher than the median annual wage for all occupations in the United States.
However, traveling dental hygienists may earn a higher salary due to the nature of their work. They may receive additional compensation such as travel expenses, lodging, and meal allowances. The salary can also vary depending on the location, size of the dental office, and the number of patients they see.
Factors That Affect Salary
Several factors can affect a traveling dental hygienist’s salary. One of the most significant factors is the location they work in. For instance, dental hygienists who work in metropolitan areas may earn a higher salary compared to those who work in rural areas.
The size of the dental office or clinic can also affect the salary. Larger offices may have higher patient volumes, which can lead to higher salaries for dental hygienists. The number of patients a traveling dental hygienist sees can also impact their salary. If a dental hygienist sees more patients, they may earn a higher salary.
Experience and Education
Experience and education are also factors that can affect a traveling dental hygienist’s salary. Dental hygienists with more experience may earn a higher salary compared to those who are just starting in their career. The level of education can also impact the salary. Dental hygienists with a bachelor’s or master’s degree may earn a higher salary compared to those with an associate’s degree.
Benefits of Being a Traveling Dental Hygienist
Besides the potential for higher salary and additional compensation, being a traveling dental hygienist has other benefits. Traveling dental hygienists have the opportunity to work in different locations, meet new people, and gain experience working in different dental offices or clinics. They also have the flexibility to choose when and where they work.
Challenges of Being a Traveling Dental Hygienist
While being a traveling dental hygienist has its benefits, it also has its challenges. Traveling dental hygienists may have to work long hours or work on weekends or holidays. They may also have to travel long distances, which can be tiring and stressful. The job can also be physically demanding, requiring the dental hygienist to stand for long periods and perform repetitive tasks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the salary of a traveling dental hygienist can vary depending on various factors such as location, experience, education, and the number of patients they see. However, being a traveling dental hygienist has its benefits, such as the potential for higher salary and additional compensation, as well as the opportunity to work in different locations and gain valuable experience.
Before pursuing a career as a traveling dental hygienist, it’s important to weigh the benefits and challenges of the job and determine if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and career goals. Whatever path you choose, I wish you all the best in your dental hygiene career!
