These arrangements represent short-term employment opportunities within the field of oral healthcare. These positions offer dental hygienists the chance to work on a contract basis, filling in for permanent staff during absences, vacations, or periods of increased patient demand. An example includes a hygienist covering a three-month maternity leave at a private practice.
The availability of such positions is important for both practitioners and dental offices. For hygienists, it offers flexibility, varied experience, and the potential for higher earning rates. For dental offices, it provides a solution for maintaining consistent patient care without the long-term commitment of hiring permanent employees. Historically, these roles have been crucial in addressing staffing shortages and ensuring continuity of services in the dental sector.
