Question: I’ve been a hygienist for five years, and I’ve reached a place where I feel stagnant in my career. How can I make sure that I don’t become complacent in a career that I worked so hard to obtain?
Answer from Amber Auger: Feeling as though you’ve lost the joy in your career is a common feeling, especially in health care. I remember a moment in my career when I felt like I was saying the same exact thing every hour on the hour. This is when I knew something had to change.
The best way to not become stagnant in your career is to invest in high-quality CE and to surround yourself with like-minded people. I’ve got a demanding schedule that requires a lot of travel; therefore, I participate in a virtual study club. I’ve enjoyed being part of the IDM study club, which is free and meets the first Wednesday of every month. The education is not only fantastic, but the conversations during the meetings have led me to create lifelong friendships.
I’d also suggest you invest in expanding your role as an RDH. There are many opportunities to receive advanced certifications that can revive your passion for the field. Perhaps it’s laser training, or maybe myofunctional therapy certification, or even expanding into a different mode of wellness. I also find that having a fitness hobby is a great way to combat the physical and emotional stress we put our ourselves.
Your career may also need diversity to make you feel fulfilled—perhaps as an educator for a corporate company, a sales representative, a speaker, or a consultant. You can create a hybrid role of clinical hygiene and beyond. RDH Evolution offers a curriculum designed for hygienists to explore career options beyond the traditional clinical setting. The conference occurs directly before RDH Under One Roof this July in Dallas, Texas, and I would love for you to be a part of the event. It's designed to help guide you toward the next chapter of your career.
Remember, your career is what you make it. Dental hygiene has so many layers. After 15 years as a registered dental hygienist, I’m still learning new things. If you’re not learning, you’re in the wrong place. Commit to putting yourself in new situations in order to expand your career into one that not only serves others but also sparks joy for you!
Editor's note: This article appeared in the June 2025 print edition of RDH magazine. Dental hygienists in North America are eligible for a complimentary print subscription. Sign up here.
