Career Continuation of Dental Hygienist：

A Qualitative Data Analysis Focusing on Professionalism and Stereotypes

Abstract

In this study, we revealed the factors that contribute dental hygienists to continue working through a qualitative survey. The majority of dental hygienists are women, therefore this is one of the occupations which many dental hygienist leave due to their marriage, childbirth, and childcare. We reviewed previous research from the perspective of promoting women’s participation in the workforce and its social background, the work content and role of dental hygienists, and their expertise. The SCAT analysis of the qualitative data revealed two factors that make it difficult to continue working long-term. First, the semi-professionalism nature of the dental hygienist profession and its gender stereotypes hinder the acquisition of expertise. Second, life events lead them to leave jobs, and they are likely to choose a family-first work style that allows them to avoid work-life conflicts. As a result, prioritizing working conditions reduces opportunities to utilize their professionalism, making it difficult to continue working long-term. These points suggest the need to improve work environments that do not impede the professionalism of dental hygienists and to reconsider stereotypes about dental hygienist work.