The giant cavity in America's dental care industry

Getty Images; Alyssa Powell/BI When Elysse Morris decided to become a dental hygienist , it seemed like a natural fit. She was a fairly "sciencey" student in high school and generally liked going to the dentist. Plus, she'd always been a talker. Eleven years into her career, Morris, now 34, knows she could probably be making more money. Her home state of Virginia has a severe shortage of dental hygienists, and temporary workers can command high hourly rates by hopping between practices. But Morris has spent four years at the same privately owned office because she's happy there. Her boss gives her decent equipment, benefits, a bonus, and — most importantly — respect. The dentist treats her like a clinician rather than a pair of hands. "We're not workers to her," Morris says.