Dental Hygienist Career Guide

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

Dental hygienists examine patients for signs of oral diseases, such as gingivitis, and provide preventive care, including oral hygiene.

They also educate patients about oral health. Using various tools—including hand, power, and ultrasonic instruments—hygienists remove tartar, stains, and plaque from teeth. They apply sealants and fluorides to protect teeth, take and develop dental x-rays, assess patients' oral health, and report findings to dentists.

Nearly **94% of dental hygienists work in dentists' offices**, with many working part-time. They wear safety glasses, surgical masks, and gloves to protect themselves and patients from infectious diseases.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Associate's degree in dental hygiene (typically 3 years). Bachelor's or master's degrees available for research, teaching, or public health roles.
• Certifications: State licensure required in all states. Requirements vary but typically include a degree from an accredited program and passing written/clinical exams. CPR certification often required.
• Key Skills: Critical thinking, communication skills, attention to detail, dexterity (working in tight spaces with precise tools), interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities.
• Experience: No prior work experience required. Clinical training included in degree programs.

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: **$94,260** ($45.32/hour)
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): **$66,470**
• Experienced (90th percentile): **$120,060**
• Top-Paying Industries: Offices of dentists ($94,570), Offices of physicians ($84,720), Government ($77,940)
• Work Arrangement: Many work part-time; some work for multiple dentists

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow **7% from 2024 to 2034**, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About **15,300 job openings** are projected annually, mostly from workers retiring or changing careers. Employment will grow from 221,600 jobs in 2024 to 237,200 by 2034, adding **15,500 new positions**.

**Growth drivers:** Demand for dental services is increasing as the older adult population grows and people keep more of their original teeth. Studies linking oral health to general health, plus efforts to expand access to oral hygiene services, will drive demand for preventive dental services. State laws increasingly allow hygienists to work at the top of their training, further boosting opportunities.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Complete an associate's degree in dental hygiene at a community college, technical school, or university (typically 3 years). High school students should take biology, chemistry, and math. Programs include laboratory, clinical, and classroom instruction in anatomy, medical ethics, and periodontics.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Most enter directly as dental hygienists after licensure. No stepping-stone roles required.
3. Build Skills: Earn state licensure (required in all states). Pass written and clinical exams. Obtain CPR certification. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills through clinical rotations.
4. Network: Join professional organizations like the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), attend state dental hygiene conferences, connect with dental offices during clinical rotations.
5. Apply Strategically: Target dental offices in your area. Many dentists hire part-time hygienists, allowing you to work for multiple practices. Check ADHA job board, Indeed, local dental association listings.

Career Path & Advancement

Typical progression: **Dental Hygienist → Senior Hygienist → Clinical Coordinator → Practice Manager** (for those interested in management).

Some hygienists pursue bachelor's or master's degrees to move into teaching, research, or public/school health programs. A few states allow hygienists with additional training (dental therapists) to provide restorative services like extracting primary teeth and placing temporary crowns.

Many hygienists advance by working for multiple high-paying dental offices, specializing in pediatric or periodontal care, or opening their own preventive care clinics in states that allow independent practice.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in dental hygiene, you might also consider:

• Dental Assistants - Provide patient care, take x-rays, and schedule appointments ($47,300 median)
• Dentists - Diagnose and treat problems with teeth, gums, and mouth ($179,210 median)
• Registered Nurses - Provide and coordinate patient care and educate patients ($93,600 median)
• Radiation Therapists - Administer radiation doses to cancer patients ($101,990 median)
• Radiologic and MRI Technologists - Perform diagnostic imaging examinations ($78,980 median)
• Medical Assistants - Complete administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings ($44,200 median)