How To Become A Travel Dental Hygienist: Your Ultimate Guide

What is a travel dental hygienist? A travel dental hygienist is a dental hygienist who takes temporary assignments in different locations, filling staffing gaps in dental offices. Can I become a travel dental hygienist? Yes, if you are a licensed dental hygienist. Who is a travel dental hygienist right for? It’s right for hygienists who love adventure, flexibility, and higher earning potential.

Are you a dental hygienist dreaming of seeing the world while advancing your career? If so, a career as a travel dental hygienist might be perfect for you. This guide will give you the steps to make this exciting career a reality. We will cover everything from the basic travel dental hygienist requirements to how to find travel dental hygiene jobs.

Image Source: www.ziprecruiter.com

Is a Mobile Dental Hygiene Career Right for You?

Before jumping into the details, think if this lifestyle fits you. Traveling for work is not for everyone. Here are some things to consider:

• Love of Travel: Do you enjoy exploring new places? Travel hygienists move frequently.
• Adaptability: Can you easily adjust to new environments and dental offices?
• Independence: Are you comfortable being away from home and your usual support system?
• Flexibility: Can you handle changing schedules and job requirements?
• Professionalism: Can you quickly learn different office protocols?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, a mobile dental hygiene career could be a great fit.

Essential Travel Dental Hygienist Requirements

To start your journey, here are the essential travel dental hygienist requirements:

1. Education: You need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program.
2. Licensure: You must be licensed to practice dental hygiene in the states where you plan to work.
3. CPR Certification: Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification is almost always needed.
4. Immunizations: You’ll likely need proof of vaccinations, like MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap.
5. Background Check: A clean background check is necessary for patient safety.

Getting Your Dental Hygiene License

Getting licensed in each state can seem tricky. Here’s a breakdown:

• Regional Exams: Some states accept regional exams like the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS), Western Regional Examining Board (WREB), or Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA). If you passed one of these, it may be easier to get licensed in states that accept them.
• State-Specific Exams: Other states require you to take their specific clinical exam. Check the state’s dental board website for details.
• License by Credentials: Some states offer licensure by credentials if you meet their requirements (years of experience, continuing education, etc.).
• Compact Licenses: Keep an eye out for potential dental hygiene compact licenses in the future, which would allow you to practice in multiple states with one license.

Table: State Dental Boards Contact Information (Example)

State	Dental Board Website	Phone Number
California	California Dental Board	(555) 123-4567
Texas	Texas Dental Board	(555) 987-6543
Florida	Florida Dental Board	(555) 111-2222
(Add More States)

Note: Replace the example.com and phone numbers with actual information.

Finding Dental Hygiene Travel Assignments

Now that you know the requirements, how do you actually find dental hygiene travel assignments? Here are a few strategies:

1. Dental Hygienist Travel Agencies

Dental hygienist travel agencies specialize in connecting dental professionals with temporary positions. They handle many details for you, such as:

• Finding job openings.
• Negotiating contracts.
• Arranging housing and travel.
• Providing benefits (health insurance, etc. – see below).

Popular agencies include:

• Favorite Healthcare Staffing
• Aureus Medical Group
• Club Staffing
• Dental Power

Tips for working with agencies:

• Research: Check agency reviews online.
• Communication: Be clear about your preferences (location, pay, schedule).
• Paperwork: Complete all required documents promptly.
• References: Have your references ready.

2. Online Job Boards

Search online job boards. While not specifically for travel jobs, you can often find contract dental hygienist positions or temporary roles that could lead to travel opportunities.

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• DentalPost

Tips for using job boards:

• Keywords: Use search terms like “travel dental hygienist,” “temporary dental hygienist,” “locum tenens dental hygienist,” and “contract dental hygienist.”
• Filters: Filter by location, job type (contract, temporary), and experience level.
• Networking: Connect with dental professionals on LinkedIn.

3. Direct Contact with Dental Offices

Another way to find assignments is to contact dental offices directly, especially in areas where you want to work. This takes more effort, but it can pay off.

• Research: Find dental offices in your target areas.
• Contact: Call or email the office manager to ask about temporary needs.
• Resume: Send your resume and cover letter.
• Follow-up: Follow up on your application.

Deciphering the Travel Dental Hygienist Salary and Benefits

One of the main reasons people consider travel hygiene is the potential for higher pay. Let’s look at travel dental hygienist salary and travel dental hygienist benefits.

Pay

Travel dental hygienist salary often is higher than permanent positions. Here’s why:

• Demand: Travel hygienists fill critical staffing shortages.
• Flexibility: You are willing to travel, making you valuable.
• Short-term Contracts: Pay is often higher to compensate for the temporary nature.

Salary depends on:

• Location: High-demand areas pay more.
• Experience: More experienced hygienists earn more.
• Agency: Some agencies offer better pay rates.
• Specialty: Specialists might command higher rates.

Average Salary Range: While it varies, you can expect to make between $45 and $70+ per hour. Some can exceed this depending on experience and location.

Benefits

Travel dental hygienist benefits vary depending on the agency or employer. Common benefits include:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Housing: Agencies may provide free or subsidized housing.
• Travel Reimbursement: Compensation for travel expenses to and from assignments.
• Licensure Assistance: Help with license fees and paperwork.
• Continuing Education: Opportunities to earn CE credits.
• Liability Insurance: Coverage in case of malpractice claims.
• 401(k) or Retirement Plans: Some agencies offer retirement savings plans.

Important Considerations:

• Read the fine print: Carefully review the benefits package before accepting a contract.
• Compare offers: Compare benefits from different agencies.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate for better benefits.

Table: Comparing Travel Dental Hygienist Benefits Across Agencies (Example)

Benefit	Agency A	Agency B	Agency C
Health Insurance	Yes	Yes	No
Housing	Provided	Stipend	None
Travel Reimbursement	Yes	Yes	Partial
CE Credits	Yes	No	Yes
401(k)	Yes	No	No

Note: Replace with actual agency benefit information.

How to Thrive in Temporary Dental Hygiene Jobs

Landing the job is just the first step. Here’s how to make the most of your temporary dental hygiene jobs:

• Professionalism: Arrive on time, dress professionally, and be respectful to staff and patients.
• Adaptability: Quickly learn the office’s protocols and systems.
• Communication: Communicate clearly with the dentist and other staff members.
• Patient Care: Provide excellent patient care.
• Documentation: Document thoroughly and accurately.
• Teamwork: Be a team player.

Managing the Logistics of a Locum Tenens Dental Hygienist Lifestyle

Being a locum tenens dental hygienist involves managing logistics. Here are some tips:

• Housing:
  • Agency-Provided: If your agency provides housing, make sure it meets your needs.
  • Stipend: If you receive a housing stipend, research housing options in advance (Airbnb, extended-stay hotels).
• Transportation:
  • Car: Having a car gives you freedom to explore.
  • Public Transportation: In some cities, public transportation is a viable option.
• Finances:
  • Budget: Create a budget to manage your income and expenses.
  • Taxes: Consult a tax professional about managing taxes as a travel hygienist.
• Health:
  • Insurance: Maintain health insurance coverage.
  • Local Doctors: Find local doctors and urgent care centers in case you need medical attention.
• Staying Connected:
  • Communication: Stay in touch with family and friends.
  • Social Media: Join online groups for travel dental hygienists.

Avoiding Potential Pitfalls

While travel hygiene offers many benefits, there are potential challenges:

• Isolation: Being away from home can be lonely.
• Burnout: Frequent travel and adjusting to new environments can be tiring.
• Unpredictability: Assignments can be canceled or changed with little notice.
• Contract Issues: Disputes over pay or benefits can arise.
• Licensing Delays: Getting licensed in new states can take time.

How to mitigate these challenges:

• Build a Support System: Connect with other travel hygienists online or in person.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Take time for yourself to relax and recharge.
• Read Contracts Carefully: Understand your rights and responsibilities.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of your licenses, certifications, and contracts.
• Plan Ahead: Have backup plans in case assignments fall through.

Interpreting Your Contract Dental Hygienist Positions

Before accepting any contract dental hygienist positions, carefully assess the contract. Here’s what to look for:

1. Pay Rate: Confirm the hourly rate and overtime policy.
2. Hours: Know the schedule and any on-call requirements.
3. Duration: Understand the length of the assignment.
4. Cancellation Policy: Check the terms for cancellation by either party.
5. Benefits: Review the benefits package.
6. Liability Coverage: Ensure you have adequate liability insurance.
7. Non-Compete Clause: Be aware of any restrictions on working in the area after the assignment.
8. Termination Clause: Know the process for ending the contract early.

If you have any concerns, consult with an attorney or experienced travel hygienist before signing.

Fathoming the Future of Mobile Dental Hygiene

The demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow in the coming years, making mobile dental hygiene an attractive career path. As technology advances and healthcare delivery models evolve, there may be even more opportunities for travel hygienists.

• Teledentistry: As teledentistry becomes more common, travel hygienists may play a role in providing remote screenings and education.
• Mobile Dental Clinics: More mobile dental clinics are reaching underserved populations, creating opportunities for travel hygienists.
• Dental Hygiene Compacts: The potential for dental hygiene compacts could streamline the licensing process and make it easier to work in multiple states.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: How long are travel dental hygiene assignments?
  • A: Assignments can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the needs of the dental office.
• Q: Do I need experience to become a travel dental hygienist?
  • A: While some agencies accept new graduates, having at least one year of experience is generally recommended.
• Q: What are the best states for travel dental hygienists?
  • A: States with high demand for dental hygienists and higher pay rates include California, Texas, Florida, and New York.
• Q: Can I bring my pet with me on assignments?
  • A: It depends on the housing arrangements. Some agencies or landlords may allow pets, but it’s important to check in advance.
• Q: Is it possible to find travel assignments in specific locations?
  • A: Yes, you can specify your preferred locations to your agency or search for jobs in those areas on your own.
• Q: What if I don’t like an assignment after I start?
  • A: Review the cancellation policy in your contract. If you have concerns, contact your agency representative.
• Q: How do I handle taxes as a travel dental hygienist?
  • A: Consult with a tax professional who specializes in travel healthcare. They can help you with deductions and filing requirements.

Becoming a travel dental hygienist can be an exciting and rewarding career move. By understanding the requirements, exploring your options, and planning carefully, you can enjoy the benefits of travel while advancing your dental hygiene career.