Dental Hygienists paid more than Nurses?

[Platypus]

Can someone explain to me why Dental Hygienists get paid more than Nurses. Someone suggested that they are dealing with the dirtiest part of the human body all day - but excuse me - As a nurse I would be on my feet running from patient to patient (not sitting and doing a cleaning), I am exposed to every potential infectious disease, my liability is greater, I give meds and observe for side effects of those meds. I understand that their boards are much more difficult (8 hours I think), but what am I missing?

Lisa

who is wondering if I should have gone to DH school instead of nursing school

[Jolie, BSN]

1. They are respected by dentists who recognize them as vital to the profession.

2. They are largely employed by private practices that aren't nearly as limited as medical practices by insurance reimbursement rates, Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs, JCAHO, etc.

[Spidey's mom, ADN, BSN, RN]

Locally they also work part-time . .. so they may make more an hour . . but not more per year.

steph

[cooliegirl]

Lisa, you went to Nursing school because you are caring and compasionate and want to make a difference in clients lives, not because of the money.

Futhermore the job market for Hygenists is very slum, most work in two offices part time to fullfill a fulltime job. Yeah they get paid more, but so does other professions...dont look too deep into money..look at it as "will I be happy in this career".

[queenjean]

Dentists are among the highest paid of medical doctors. It stands to reason that their assistants and office help would be paid more, sharing in the wealth (hopefully!).

[Platypus]

Wow - really fast replies! I had no idea that dentists were paid so well. I guess that explains the higher pay. Thanks for the input.

[suzanne in hawaii]

One of the biggest reasons why hygienists make a higher hourly rate is that the NUMBERS of hygienists is carefully controlled. They keep a certain number graduating, and so the market is never flooded which would bring down the salary. In addition, some also get a percentage of the production ($) they generate. This is what I have been told by hygienists in California and Hawaii when we have discussed our professions.

[NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN]

Why are you so concerned about how much more they make ?

Nursing is a excellent career choice, and as long as you are happy being a nurse thats all that matters.

Nursing is Priceless :)

[Scooter5]

I think you should check into the benefits. Working for a large business (hospital) may have more benefits available. I am guessing you are young (or at least younger than me!), but don't forget the value of a retirement plan and health benefits.

[liteskin_qtee]

Another thing to consider is that Hygenists don't have as much flexibility in career choices as nurse..

[dreamon]

^^Great point. That is very important.

[norcalRNstudent]

You'd have to pay me a MILLION dollars a year to go digging around in someone's mouth before it's been cleaned. Bad teeth gross me out!:barf01:

to each his/her own.