Male hygienists get thumbs down in US survey

Some dentists would not hire a male dental hygienist.

That's according to an online poll at the US website for dentists, www.thewealthydentist.com.

Only 70% of dentists in the survey said they would hire a male hygienist if he were the most qualified candidate for the job, 23% probably would not, and 7% admitted they wouldn't hire a man.

On the other hand, 17% said their dental practice currently employs a male dental hygienist.

‘Public expectation dictates a female. I'd rather not be a trendsetter,' said one dentist. But another said, ‘While I was initially sceptical, the male hygienists I've worked with are excellent and very well liked by their patients.'

To see further comments made by dentists about hiring a male hygienist, visit www.thewealthydentist.com/blog/1023/male-dental-hygienists/.