Practical ways to boost your income with the license you already have — and why picking up temp shifts is the fastest, most flexible option for most hygienists.
Short answer: The fastest way for a dental hygienist to earn extra income is to pick up temp shifts on a direct marketplace where you set your own hourly rate and there’s no agency markup. On TempStars, hygienists choose which shifts to work and what to charge — and TempStars professionals have earned over $46,000,000 in temping income since 2015.
Start with how much (and when) you actually want to work
Extra income only helps if the schedule is sustainable. Before you add shifts, get honest about your capacity: a single Saturday a month, a recurring evening, or one extra weekday. Building in recovery time keeps the extra work from becoming a fast track to burnout.
Why temping is the highest-leverage option
You already hold the license and the skills. Temping lets you convert your existing availability into income immediately — no side hustle to learn, no new certification to earn. On a direct marketplace you also set your own rate, so you capture the full value of your time. Saturday and short-notice shifts often pay a premium, and offices that can’t rely on agency rosters frequently pay more to attract good professionals.
Other ways hygienists boost income
- Pick up shifts at multiple offices — variety plus more available days.
- Build a favourites list — offices that love your work can request you directly, smoothing out a steady stream of shifts.
- Add certifications over time — expanded skills can support higher rates.
- Use a quiet stretch to explore a permanent role via the job board if you want a stable base plus occasional temping.
Protect your boundaries while you earn
More income shouldn’t mean saying yes to everything. Evaluate commute, the office’s ratings, hours, and confirmation details before each shift. Because you control which offers you make on TempStars, you can be selective and still stay busy.
Confirm the tax and licensing details
Temp income is often earned as an independent contractor, which changes how you handle taxes and deductions. Licensing and tax rules vary by state and province, so confirm what applies to you and set aside part of each payment if you’re contracting.
Frequently asked questions
Picking up temp shifts on a direct marketplace like TempStars, where you set your own hourly rate with no agency markup and choose which shifts to work. It uses the license and skills you already have, so there’s no ramp-up.
No platform can guarantee income, since it depends on your availability, local demand, and the shifts you accept. That said, TempStars professionals have collectively earned over $46,000,000 in temping income since 2015.
No. It’s free for dental professionals to join and use TempStars, with no sign-up, subscription, or membership fees.
Turn your free days into income
Set your rate, choose your shifts, and start earning on your schedule.
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