[maudineormsby]

Dental hygenists also only work 3-4 days a week. I'm told this is just the way the job works (usually they are 3 days at one office and 1 day at another if they desire). There's also the wear and tear on your body from crouching over someone with vibrating tools.

[geebee]

I usually add this to my comment above: I have absolutely no doubt that dental hygienists and registered nurses work hard, and deserve their compensation. In SF, they are well paid, and nurses tend to poll high in occupational prestige.