title: RDA and RDH retention surveys. CDA's Council on Education and Professional Relations.
abstract: This article presents the results of a survey of dental auxiliaries conducted by the California Dental Association's Council on Education and Professional Relations. The survey found that a surprisingly high number of dental assistants (56 percent) and hygienists (42 percent) are considering whether to remain in the dental health care field, stated reasons for this include lack of paid benefits and little opportunity for career growth. The results also suggest, however, that if the perceived deficiencies in these areas were addressed, RDAs and RDHs might remain in the profession.
authors.affiliation: California Dental Association, Council on Education and Professional Relations, Sacramento 95853, USA.
authors.forename: S E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Schonfeld
authors.forename: D S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Brandes
authors.forename: V L
authors.initials: VL
authors.lastname: Freckleton
authors.forename: R E
authors.initials: RE
authors.lastname: Gillis
authors.forename: W H
authors.initials: WH
authors.lastname: Heisler
authors.forename: R G
authors.initials: RG
authors.lastname: Hunt
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002140:California; D002321:Career Choice; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods; D003726:Dental Assistants / Q000706:statistics & numerical data* / Q000600:supply & distribution; D003756:Dental Hygienists / Q000706:statistics & numerical data* / Q000600:supply & distribution; D003813:Dentistry; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010563:Personnel Turnover; D012456:Salaries and Fringe Benefits; D000078329:Workforce