The future of dental work


From rising burnout to the growing demand for flexibility, dental professionals are facing big changes in how and where they work.


Our State of Work Report unpacks what these shifts mean for hygienists, assistants, and offices alike, and shines a light on real solutions to keep the profession strong.

GoTu State of Work Report


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Your inside look at where the dental industry is headed.

79%

Of dental hygienists say they plan to stay in the profession for at least the next decade.

56%

Of dental assistants report experiencing burnout at some point at their job.

92%

Of dental hygienists have picked up a temporary assignment at some point in their career.

81%

Of dental assistants have picked up a temporary assignment at some point in their career.

Dental Hygienist Snapshot

The dental hygiene workforce is shifting, with a stronger focus on financial stability, career flexibility, and managing burnout. Many registered dental hygienists are turning to temporary work as a strategic option while concerns about compensation and work-life balance continue to be top priorities.

01 The registered dental hygienist workforce consists of experienced professionals, with 23% having 20+ years of experience and 79% planning to remain in the field for at least another decade.

02 Despite most registered dental hygienists earning $41-$60 per hour, 44% have not received a raise in two years, and 66% do not receive bonuses, contributing to widespread financial dissatisfaction.

03 Burnout and career mobility are key concerns for registered dental hygienists, with many seeking higher pay and better benefits, while others turn to temporary work for flexibility and stability.

04 Registered dental hygienists are increasingly turning to temporary work for better pay and flexibility, with 28% identifying as a part-time or full-time temporary registered dental hygienist.

05 Registered dental hygienists are advocating for higher wages, better benefits, and improved workplace culture to enhance career longevity and job satisfaction.

Dental Assistant Snapshot

The dental assistant workforce is evolving, with a growing emphasis on financial stability, career flexibility, and burnout management. Many dental assistants are exploring temporary work as a strategic choice while concerns about compensation, benefits, and work-life balance remain at the forefront.

01 The dental assistant workforce consists of a mix of experienced professionals and newcomers, with 16% having 20+ years of experience and 88% planning to remain in the field for at least another decade.

02 Despite most dental assistants earning $20-$30 per hour, 55% have not received a raise in two years, and 79% do not receive bonuses, contributing to widespread financial dissatisfaction.

03 Burnout is a major concern, with 56% of dental assistants reporting experiencing burnout in their professional career, which may be due to factors such as high patient volume, physical strain, and lack of work-life balance.

04 Dental assistants are increasingly turning to temporary work for better pay and flexibility, with 81% having worked temporary jobs and 59% factoring flexible schedules into overall job satisfaction.

05 Dental assistants are advocating for higher wages, better benefits, and improved workplace culture to enhance career longevity and job satisfaction.

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STATE OF WORK

Dive into GoTu’s State of Work reports to uncover key trends, insights, and perspectives from dental professionals nationwide.