I didn’t plan on temping when I graduated from hygiene school. But jobs were scarce, and I was nervous about committing to the wrong office. So I started picking up temp shifts—and I’m so glad I did.

Temping as a dental hygienist gave me real-world experience, flexibility, and something I didn’t expect: a better understanding of what I wanted (and didn’t want) in a dental office. And now more than ever, it’s incredibly easy to find and book temp shifts. With staffing agencies, job boards, and temping apps, there are plenty of opportunities available—with many just a few clicks away.

Whether you’re a new grad still finding your rhythm or a seasoned hygienist rethinking your career, here are 10 reasons temping might be the right move for you.

1. You get to explore different office cultures

Temping gives you a front-row seat to how offices operate—from the flow of the day to how teams communicate. You’ll start to recognize what feels good (and what doesn’t) in a work environment.

2. You can find your “just right” fit

Temping is like getting to test-drive different offices. Instead of settling too soon, you can gather information and choose a job that truly supports you.

3. You control your schedule

You decide which days you want to work. This kind of flexibility is ideal if you’re juggling family life, school, or just want more breathing room between clinical days.

4. It helps with burnout recovery

Stepping away from the full-time grind—even temporarily—can make a huge difference in your physical and mental health. Temping lets you stay in the profession while giving your nervous system a break.

It also gives you a fresh rotation of patients. Believe it or not, having the same conversations with the same people every three to six months can start to feel draining. Meeting new faces and switching up your routine can actually make your workday feel lighter and more engaging.

(If small talk wears you out, especially with new patients, I’ve got you. Grab my Small Talk Cheat Sheet for Dental Hygienists—it’s filled with helpful phrases to keep conversations flowing without the awkward pauses.)

5. You build adaptability and confidence

Every temp shift teaches you something. You’ll get better at adjusting to new setups, different software, and unexpected curveballs—skills that make you a stronger clinician overall.

6. You learn what doesn’t work for you

Sometimes it takes experiencing the wrong office to figure out your non-negotiables. Temping gives you clarity without long-term commitment.

7. You might earn more per day

Some temp roles pay a higher daily rate than permanent positions, especially if you’re covering a last-minute opening. You show up, treat your patients, and go home—no team meetings, no extras.

Temping can also be a great way to supplement your current job. If you’re working part-time or looking to boost your income without taking on a second permanent role, picking up an extra temp day here and there can help fill the gaps—on your terms.

8. It can be a smoother re-entry after leaving a toxic job

If you’ve recently left a job that left you emotionally or physically drained, temping can help rebuild your confidence and remind you why you got into hygiene in the first place. (Hi, this was me!)

9. It’s a great way for new grads to get experience

Temping gives you exposure to a wide range of patients, office systems, and clinical expectations—fast. It helps you figure out your style and gain confidence early on.

10. You get clear on what actually matters to you

After working in a variety of offices, you’ll start to recognize which environments support you—and which ones drain you. That kind of clarity makes it easier to choose roles that align with your values, not just your paycheck.

The Takeaway

Temping can be a breath of fresh air when you’re in a season of transition. It offers flexibility, insight, and a chance to reconnect with what you enjoy about hygiene.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of your next move, temping might just be the step that helps you find your way forward.

🎓 If you’re a new grad or know someone who is, don’t miss my free guide: