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Temping in dentistry gives dental hygienists, dental assistants and dentists control over when, where and how much they work. This guide answers the most common questions about dental temp jobs, from temp hygienist pay to the best dental temping app.
What are the pros and cons of temping in dentistry?
For most dental professionals, temping provides a higher hourly rate, schedule flexibility and broader experience.
Pros of temping | Cons of temping |
|---|---|
Set your own schedule, more flexibility | Income can vary week to week |
Higher hourly rates than many permanent roles | No medical benefits or PTO from offices |
Explore new offices, systems, and gain new experiences | Each new office takes time to learn, must follow specific office protocols |
Try out an office before committing to a permanent job | Last-minute office cancellations can occur |
Easy to fit around school, family or a second job | Less continuity with patients and teams |
Is it a good idea to temp as a new grad in dentistry?
Yes. Temping lets new grads see how different dental offices operate before committing to one. From the dental software they use, the technology, the staff, and even the patients, each time you pick up a temp shift, you are entering into a new opportunity for learning and career growth. Temping can build your confidence and speed, as you are required to learn and adapt to your environment quickly. Look for offices with strong reviews and supportive teams while you get your footing.
Can a temp job turn into a permanent position?
Absolutely! Temping can also lead to a permanent position. Many dental offices hire temporary staff while trying to fill a permanent role. If you enjoyed your experience with a dental office, ask if they are looking to hire permanently.
Should a new grad hygienist take a permanent job or temp first?
Either path can work well. The right choice depends on whether you value stability or flexibility more as a new dental hygienist.
A permanent job gives you a steady paycheck, predictable hours and a consistent team and patients. The trade-off is a less flexible schedule and fewer chances to see how other offices function before you commit.
Temping as a new grad lets you set your own schedule and your own hourly rate, which is often higher than permanent pay. You’ll also get exposure to different practices, systems and patient types. The trade-off is less income stability and the challenge of adjusting to a new office on each shift.
Many new grads temp first to find the right fit, then accept a permanent position with an office they already know.
Should I temp as a dental assistant while in hygiene school?
If you already hold a dental assisting credential, temping as a dental assistant is a flexible way to earn money around classes and clinic hours. It may also lead to a potential dental hygienist position in the future. If you enjoyed your experience there, give them your information to contact you if they are hiring an RDH in the future.
How much do dental temps make?
Dental hygiene temps and dental assisting temps often earn more per hour than permanent staff, because offices pay a premium for flexible, short-notice coverage. Rates depend on your state, experience and the shift. However, you can set your hourly rate on Cloud Dentistry. A helpful feature of the Cloud Dentistry app will tell you the average hourly rate in your area.
Do dental temps get benefits?
Usually not. Most temps work as short-term employees or independent professionals, so health insurance and retirement plans aren’t included. Higher hourly pay often makes up the difference. Cloud Dentistry provides perks for temping professionals, including free: virtual CE courses, virtual mentorship, FIGs scrubs, ClassPass gym perks, Child Care discounts, and an exclusive discount hub.
What is the best app to temp in dentistry?
Cloud Dentistry is a top choice for dental temping because professionals keep control of their career and keep their pay:
- Set your own rate, schedule and travel distance.
- Keep 100% of what you earn, with no recruiter, placement or booking fees for professionals.
- Instant payout available.
- Book trusted offices faster by favoriting offices for auto-accept.
- Read peer reviews of offices before you accept a shift.
- Turn a temp shift into a permanent job. Six in 10 Cloud Dentistry offices report making a permanent hire from a temp first.
- Free CE and career perks every month
- Quick and helpful responses from their customer support team
Which dental temping app is the easiest to use?
Cloud Dentistry is built for simple, self-serve booking. Create a free profile, set your availability and rate, then apply or accept shifts from your phone, mobile web or desktop. Support is available 24/7 by text.
What should I bring to a temp dental hygiene shift?
It’s always a good idea to ask the office you are temping at if there is anything specific you need to bring. In general, temp dental hygienists and professionals bring their own scrubs, a few sets of back-up instruments, loupes, a water bottle, and a lunch. Offices should provide you with PPE and anything needed to complete your appointment.
How do I become a temp dental hygienist?
After you receive your dental hygiene license, you can start looking for temp or permanent jobs. Cloud Dentistry is a free app to find temp work! Creating a profile is quick and easy. Apply for temp jobs, take free CE courses, and explore other benefits for being a user on the app.
