Dental hygienists play a crucial role in preventive oral care by performing cleanings, assessing patients for signs of oral diseases, educating them on maintaining oral hygiene, and assisting dentists with patient care. They work primarily in private dental practices, but can also be found in community health clinics, hospitals, and educational institutions.
Growth: The demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow by 9% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for most occupations. This growth is driven by an increased focus on preventive dental care and an aging population that requires more dental services.
Job Openings: About 16,400 job openings are projected each year, due to growth and replacement needs.
Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Dental Hygienists page for more detailed information.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and local data from Illinois, dental hygienist jobs are expected to grow by about 6% through 2029. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for dental services, particularly as the population ages and oral health continues to be linked to overall wellness.
Visit the Illinois Department of Public Health's Careers in Oral Health Care page for more detailed information.
The median annual wage for dental hygienists in the U.S. was $87,530 as of May 2023, with the potential to earn up to $123,500 depending on experience and location. The profession is expected to grow by 9% over the next decade, driven by an aging population and increasing awareness of the link between oral and overall health. Salary can vary depending on factors like location, experience, and level of education. The highest 10% in the field earn more than $100,200 annually.
For tips on how to enter the dental profession, visit ADA Career Center's article How to Become a Dental Hygienist.
Dental hygienists often work part-time, and it is common for them to be employed by more than one dental office. They primarily work in clean, well-lit environments and must adhere to safety protocols to protect themselves and their patients from diseases.
For more information, visit the American Dental Hygienists’ Association's (ADHA) article Professional Roles of an RDH.
Most dental hygienists complete an accredited associate degree program, which typically takes about three years. Licensure is required in every state and typically involves passing both written and clinical exams. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees are available for those who wish to advance in areas like public health, research, or education
Dental hygienists can pursue diverse roles beyond clinical practice, including corporate positions (e.g., sales, product development), research, public health, and education. They can also work as part of multidisciplinary health teams in schools, community health centers, and nursing homes.
Dental hygienists report high job satisfaction due to the flexibility of part-time work, the rewarding nature of patient care, and competitive salaries. Benefits vary by employer but often include health insurance, paid vacation, and retirement contributions.
1. American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) Survey: The ADHA regularly publishes surveys that cover employment trends, salary expectations, and job satisfaction levels among dental hygienists. These surveys often include information on work settings, job demand, and geographic variations in employment opportunities
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Employment Outlook: The BLS projects a 9% growth in employment for dental hygienists between 2023 and 2033. They also provide detailed data on median wages, geographic employment patterns, and long-term job prospects
3. The Annual Dental Post Salary Survey: This survey, conducted by DentalPost, provides detailed information on salaries, job satisfaction, and workplace trends specific to dental hygienists. The survey captures responses from thousands of professionals and provides insights into employment conditions and career advancement. The 2024 Dental Hygienist Salary Report covers trends such as:
4. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Workforce Projections: The HRSA conducts workforce projection surveys, including for dental hygienists, highlighting the future supply and demand for oral health professionals in various regions of the U.S. The HRSA's reports are particularly useful for understanding the broader employment landscape
Illinois Dental Hygienists' Association's (IDHA) Career Opportunities page offers a job board for part-time and full-time dental hygienist positions across Illinois. It is an excellent resource for both new graduates and experienced professionals seeking employment in the state. The IDHA site also provides access to temporary job opportunities through platforms like OnDiem, which connects dental practices with verified dental hygienists for temp and permanent staffing
Harper College’s Job Placement Resource Center supports students by providing job leads and assistance in securing employment post-graduation. DentalPost is another platform that provides insights on job market trends, salary data, and workforce reports for dental hygienists across the U.S.