NOTE: It is illegal to work in the state of California until you have a physical license on hand.
Do not allow anyone to pressure you to start working early.
​YES - you can lose your license by practicing "unlicensed".

Things to Bring for a Talking Interview:

  1. A copy of your resume.
  2. A list of questions you have for the office. Some examples: ​​
    1. What is the office's protocol for herpetic lesions? Can I dismiss the patient if I am not comfortable working on them?
    2. Does the office provide liability coverage for hygienists? 
    3. What benefits do I get working here part-time/full-time? (Ex: Free CE's, healthcare, free dental services, monthly/yearly bonuses, PTO, etc.)
    4. Is there a bonus structure for my individual production? If so, how does that work exactly? (Expect this if you are doing double-column)
    5. How often does your office order instruments for hygienists? When was the last time you ordered new/additional instruments that needed to be replaced?
    6. Does this office use informed refusal forms? What is the office protocol if a patient declines SRPs?
    7. Why did the last hygienist who worked here leave? How long has this office been looking for a hygienist? 
    8. Does this office use AAP classification for perio? (You'd be surprised at how many offices don't!)
    9. What kind of insurance does this office take? PPO/HMO/Medi-Cal? 
    10. Give me some examples of qualities you are looking for in a hygienist. 
  3. An open mind and a great attitude! Always thank offices for their time and consideration. 

Examples of Dress Code for Talking Interview:

Working Interview Laws, Things to Bring & Dress Code 

Dental hygienists asked to do a working interview are considered employees and must be paid for the time spent providing dental hygiene services. You do not have the ability, nor can your employer ask you to sign away those rights. 
  • You should receive a statement indicating that you are being paid for a working interview at a rate of $___.
  • You should complete a W-4 as well as any other forms necessary for a “new” employee. You should receive a W-2 for tax filing.
  • You can also achieve this by having them try you out as a temp through onDiem.
 
Things to bring:
  1. ​Dress in scrubs and comfortable shoes
  2. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to try out the operatory buttons and figure out where spare things are so that you aren't fumbling around for things in front of the patient. Also make sure your operatory is fully stocked. (Example: air/water tips, gauze, polish paste, goody bags, floss, suction, etc.)
  3. Loupes with 2 batteries
  4. Face shield
  5. Any additional instruments you feel you may need that the office does not have. Ideally, the office will have all of the equipment and instruments that you need. 
Accepting the Job - Congratulations! You're a working RDH!
Once you have verbally agreed to take on the job position, be sure your employer gives you the following: 
  1. A copy of your signed written contract of your hourly wage, benefits and any stipulations on early dismissal should a patient not arrive for their appointed time (See FAQs on CA Labor Law).
  2. A copy of the office's protocols and procedures manual. 
  3. Copies of any tax related documents.