10 Smart Ways to Combat the Dental Hygienist Shortage
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The dental industry is feeling the pressure. A nationwide shortage of dental hygienists is making it increasingly difficult for practices to meet patient demand, maintain quality care, and grow sustainably. This workforce gap has intensified since the pandemic, with many hygienists retiring early, changing careers, or demanding more flexible schedules. But dental offices don’t have to wait for the system to fix itself—there are actionable steps they can take now.
Here are 10 effective strategies to help your practice overcome the shortage of dental hygienists and stay ahead of the curve.
1. Offer Flexible Scheduling Options
Today’s hygienists value work-life balance more than ever. Offering part-time roles, 4-day workweeks, or split shifts can attract a broader talent pool—including working parents and semi-retired professionals.
2. Create a Positive Work Culture
Retention starts with culture. A supportive environment where hygienists feel respected, heard, and part of the team reduces turnover and boosts morale. Celebrate wins, encourage feedback, and invest in team-building.
3. Leverage Temporary and Contract Staffing
Utilizing temporary or per-diem hygienists helps cover gaps quickly. Partnering with staffing firms like CoreEthos gives you access to a vetted network of professionals ready to step in when needed.
4. Invest in Training and Mentorship
Offer new grads mentorship programs to bridge the experience gap and attract entry-level talent. This not only supports professional growth but helps build long-term loyalty to your practice.
5. Expand Your Recruitment Channels
Relying on a single job board won’t cut it. Diversify your approach—use social media, dental school partnerships, industry events, and niche staffing agencies (like CoreEthos) to widen your reach.
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6. Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits
Regardless of how great your culture is money matters. To compete in today’s market, ensure your compensation package is attractive. Include health benefits, CEU reimbursement, bonuses, and even student loan assistance where possible.
7. Streamline Onboarding
A slow or disorganized onboarding process can cause great candidates to walk away. Make sure your hiring, training, and credentialing processes are efficient and welcoming from day one.
8. Promote Career Growth Opportunities
Show your hygienists there’s room to grow. Offer leadership pathways, CE support, or cross-training in other clinical skills to keep them engaged and committed.
9. Stay Technologically Competitive
Modern tools and equipment reduce fatigue and improve job satisfaction. Investing in the latest dental hygiene technologies can help attract top talent who want to work in progressive environments.
10. Partner with a Specialized Staffing Agency
Working with a dental staffing agency like CoreEthos saves time, reduces hiring risks, and ensures you’re getting professionals who align with your values and standards of care.
The Bottom Line
The dental hygienist shortage isn’t going away overnight, but practices that adapt now will be better positioned for success. By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only fill roles faster—you’ll build a resilient, motivated team ready to thrive in today’s dynamic dental landscape.
Ready to Find Your Next Hygienist?
Let CoreEthos Group help. We provide contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire staffing solutions tailored to your needs—especially for dental offices seeking reliable, credentialed professionals.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your team and keep your practice thriving.
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CoreEthos Group is a contract and direct-hire practice specializing in the healthcare industry.