Dental assistants and hygienists were once considered “pink color” jobs, typically done by women; but now these positions are seeing more and more male applicants.

While most male dental assistants come from the military, some dental professionals believe the economic recession is influencing more and more men to go after these female dominated fields.

The Education Director of the American Dental Hygienists Association said some of the 344 hygienists programs in the United States have noticed more male applicants.  She believes the greatest factor is the tough job market.

Some dentist are said to shy away from the trend, but many are accepting of the new male applicants.