Becoming wiser: A qualitative study of transition from dental hygiene school to real world practice

The purpose of my research was to examine the transition experience of dental hygiene school graduates as they adjusted to practice in the real world so that hygiene instructors can pragmatically address learner needs regarding this important, stressful period. I examined expectations and experiences. Findings pertaining to respondents' expectations included initial stress, especially related to time constraints, and fulfillment of the dental hygiene roles as visualized by the American Dental Hygienists Association workshops in 1984 and 1985.; Three themes emerged from the participants' experiences. First, they struggled with letting go of the perfection so valued in school; this was driven by the time constraints of clinical practice. Second, the influence of the dentist on the participants' transition was significant, extensive, and unexpected. And third, they deepened their professional identity as they gained confidence through their successful patient interactions.