Determinants of turnover intentions in new dental hygienists: focusing on resilience

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the relationship between resilience and turnover intention among new dental hygienists and to identify its key influencing factors. Methods: This study included 285 dental hygienists who had been employed for <24 months at dental clinics. Data were collected through self-report surveys using the Korean version of the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale and a modified turnover intention scale. The statistical analyses included t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation for variable comparisons. Stepwise multiple regression was conducted to identify the factors influencing turnover intention. Results: The average resilience score was 3.47, with “support” scoring the highest (3.86). Turnover intention was found to be significantly associated with workplace satisfaction (β=-0.277), age (β=0.240), assignment to the desired department (β=0.237), support from others (β=0.185), and optimism (β=-0.168). The regression model explained 31.1% of the variance (R²=0.311; p<0.001). Conclusions: The findings suggest that improving workplace satisfaction, fostering optimism, and enhancing organizational support can effectively reduce turnover intention among new dental hygienists. Therefore, these strategies are critical for stabilizing the dental workforce and ensuring quality care delivery.