u/OverOrganization7310

I’m taking a gap year, took the DAT, and I’m applying to dental school for next year’s intake. I want to have a backup in case I don’t get in, so I’m thinking of applying to both dental hygiene and pharmacy at the same time (I have all the pre-reqs for both).
I’m really stuck between the two.

Dental hygiene: I actually like pretty much everything about it. I’m fine with the teeth stuff. I also really like that it’s hands on and allows me to interact with others. My biggest concern is the back/neck problems and musculoskeletal issues that can come with hygiene. I already sometimes get mild lower back pain, so that makes me even more worried about developing serious back problems later on. I don’t want to have to leave the career early and retrain for a completely different job after already doing the schooling.

Pharmacy: I don’t really have that concern of back issues. It seems like a career I could physically do long term, but I’m worried I’d find it boring. I know I prefer hands on work, and pharmacy just doesn’t seem as interesting or satisfying to me as hygiene.
So I’m basically torn between something I think I’d enjoy but could potentially take a toll on my body, vs something that seems safer long term but I might not enjoy as much.

What made you decide pharmacy was the right choice for you? If you were in my position, which would you choose as a backup to dentistry? Honestly just thinking I apply to both and make a decision then.