Ask a Pro: Instruments and essentials for your temping positions

Question: I just graduated from dental hygiene schools and I’m getting ready to start my career by temping. Do you have any recommendations for my temping bag? Do I need to bring my own instruments?

Answer from Kimberly Augustus, BA, RDH: Congratulations on graduating and deciding to temp! Temping is such a great way to gain experience in different offices, meet new people, and figure out what kind of environment is the right fit for you. But it can also be overwhelming when you start wondering what you should bring from office to office. So, let’s talk about some of the must-haves for your dental hygiene temping positions. 

The essentials 

Loupes and light: If you have these, bring them. They’re not just helpful, they’re necessary. Some offices do not have overhead lights in their operatories, so bringing your own light will ensure that you can see.

Snacks and hydration: Pack a protein bar, trail mix, or something quick you can eat between patients. Pair it with a big water bottle. Temping days can be unpredictable, and you don’t always know what the office’s break schedule is like. And we all know that working hungry is brutal!

Lab coat: While most offices provide PPE, it doesn’t hurt to bring your own lab coat. You may want to call the office the day before and confirm whether you’re responsible for your own lab coat and find out if the office staff members all wear the same color.

Instruments: To bring or not to bring? 

Most offices will provide you with a full set of instruments. You don’t have to bring your own. That said, some temps like to carry a small pouch with a few favorites. For me it was always a universal and nevi! It’s more about peace of mind than necessity. If you’re picky about certain products (such as prophy paste or floss), tossing a few of your go-tos in your bag is also a smart move.

The “nice-to-haves” 

Mask extenders or ear savers: These little comfort items can make a long day much easier.

Hand sanitizer and lotion: Offices have these, but your hands may appreciate your favorite brand.

Notebook and pen: Jot down office protocols, names of staff, or anything you want to remember if you return. This also helps track hours and details for your own records.

Back-up essentials: Hair ties, ChapStick, and a little deodorant stick. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Temping is all about adaptability. Your bag doesn’t need to be overflowing, but having your own essentials can make each new office feel a little more familiar. Think of your temp bag as your safety net. It won’t replace the office’s setup, but it gives you the comfort of knowing you’ve got what you need to thrive no matter where you’re working.

So pack smart, keep it simple, and remember to bring the most important things to every office—your skills, your smile, and your professionalism!