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Career Information 2022

ADHA Career Center: Career Paths

Define Your Role

Working in a private dental office continues to be the primary place of employment for dental hygienists. For today’s dental hygiene professional, there are many other career pathways to explore as well. Never before has there been more opportunity for professional growth. How and where you work today is up to you.
Let your dental hygiene education and experience open doors to YOUR career path and consider the possibilities…

Learn More

The Path to a New Career

The Roles of a Dental Hygenist

Clinician

Dental hygienists in a clinical role assess, diagnose, plan, implement, evaluate and document treatment for prevention, intervention and control of oral diseases, while practicing in collaboration with other health professionals. Examples of clinical settings include:

  • Private dental practices
  • Community clinics
  • Hospitals
  • University dental clinics
  • Prison facilities
  • Nursing homes
  • Schools

Corporate

Corporate dental hygienists are employed by companies that support the oral health industry through the sale of products and services. Leaders throughout the dental industry often employ dental hygienists due to their clinical experience and understanding of dental practice. Examples of corporate positions include:

  • Sales representatives
  • Product researchers
  • Corporate educators
  • Corporate administrators

Public Health

Community Health programs are typically funded by government or nonprofit organizations. These positions often offer an opportunity to provide care to those who otherwise would not have access to dental care. Examples of public health opportunities include a variety of roles and settings:

  • Clinicians, Administrators, Researcher
  • State Public Health Officer
  • Community Clinic Administrator
  • Indian Health Service
  • Head Start programs
  • Local health departments
  • National Health Service Corps
  • School sealant programs
  • Rural or inner city community clinics

Researcher

Research conducted by dental hygienists can be either qualitative or quantitative. Quantitative research involves conducting surveys & analyzing the results, while qualitative research may involve testing a new procedure, product, or theory for accuracy or effectiveness. Examples of research settings include:

  • Corporations
  • Governmental agencies
  • Nonprofit organizations

Educator

Dental Hygiene educators are in great demand. Colleges and universities throughout the U. S. require dental hygiene instructors who use educational theory and methodology to educate competent oral health care professionals. Corporations also employ educators who provide continuing education to licensed dental hygienists. Examples of education positions may be full time or part time and include:

  • Clinical instructors
  • Classroom instructors
  • Program directors
  • Corporate educators

Administrator

Dental hygienists in administrative positions apply organizational skills, communicate objectives, identify and manage resources, and evaluate and modify programs of health, education and healthcare. Examples of administrative positions include:

  • Clinical Director, statewide school sealant program
  • Program Director, dental hygiene educational program
  • Dean of Health Sciences, educational institution
  • Executive Director, state association staff
  • Director, corporate sales

Entrepreneur

By using imagination and creativity to initiate or finance new commercial enterprises, dental hygienists have become successful entrepreneurs in a variety of businesses. Entrepreneurial opportunities developed by dental hygienists include:

  • Product Development and Sales
  • Practice Management Company
  • Employment Service
  • CE provider or Meeting Planner
  • Consulting Business
  • Founder of Nonprofit
  • Independent Clinical Practice
  • Professional Speaker / Writer

Learn more about the education, licensure, and training required for dental hygiene career options.

Dental Hygenists At Work

Find the role that's right for you.

More than ever, the connection between oral health and overall health and wellness is being made. The demand for dental hygiene services has always been strong and we will continue to adapt and change to meet the health and safety needs of our patients.
While working in a private dental office continues to be the primary place of employment for dental hygienists, how and where you work today is up to you. With so many professional roles to choose from, it is important to consider which setting and capacity is right for you.

Clinical

Get ready to assess, diagnose, plan, implement, evaluate and document treatment for the prevention, intervention and control of oral diseases while collaborating with other health professionals. Clinical settings include:
• Private dental practices
• Community clinics
• Hospitals
• University dental clinics
• Prison facilities
• Nursing homes
• Schools
• Dental service organizations (DSO)
• Military
• Multi-specialty clinic

Corporate

Put your clinical experience and understanding of dental practice to use for a company that supports the oral health industry through the sale of products and services. Corporate roles include:
• Sales Representatives
• Product Researchers
• Corporate Educators
• Corporate Administrators

Education

If educational theory and methodology interest you, you’ll be in high demand as a dental hygienist educator. Education can be a secondary setting for clinicians. Corporations also employ educators who provide continuing education to licensed dental hygienists. Roles include:
• Clinical Instructors
• Classroom Instructors
• Program Directors
• Adjunct Faculty

Public Health

Community Health programs are typically funded by government or nonprofit organizations. In this role, you’ll be able to provide dental care to those in need. Opportunities in public health include:

Clinician

• Rural or inner-city community clinics
• Indian Health Service
• Head Start programs
• School sealant programs

Administrator

• State Public Health Officer
• Community Clinic Administrator

• Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)
• Community Health Center

Research

Research opportunities for dental hygienists are described as qualitative or quantitative. With quantitative, you may be conducting surveys and analyzing results. In a qualitative research role, you may be testing a new procedure, product, or theory for accuracy and effectiveness. Typical research settings include:
• Colleges and universities
• Corporations
• Governmental agencies
• Nonprofit organizations

Administration

In an administrative position, you’ll put your organizational, communication, and resource management skills to use. You will also be evaluating and modifying programs for education and health care. Positions can include:
• Clinical Director, statewide school sealant program
• Program Director, dental hygiene program
• Executive Director, state association staff
• Research Administrator, university
• Director, corporate sales

Entrepreneurial

With some imagination and creativity, you can initiate or finance new commercial enterprises as a dental hygienist entrepreneur in a variety of businesses:
• Practice Management
• Product Development & Sales
• Employment Service
• CE Provider or Meeting Planning
• Consulting
• Founder of a Nonprofit
• Independent Clinical Practice
• Professional Speaking/Writing
• RDH-owned Independent Clinical Practice

Healthy Mouths.  Happy Lives.

As a dental hygienist, you know that happiness is bringing oral health to life. ADHA is here for you to help with networking, mentoring and continued learning throughout your career.
Visit adha.org for more.

Overview

The dental hygienist plays an integral role in assisting individuals and groups in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health. Dental hygienists provide educational, clinical and consultative services to individuals and populations of all ages in a variety of settings and capacities. The professional roles of the dental hygienist are outlined below.

Clinician

Dental hygienists in a clinical role assess, diagnose, plan, implement, evaluate and document treatment for prevention, intervention and control of oral diseases, while practicing in collaboration with other health professionals. Examples of clinical employment settings include:
• Private dental practices
• Community clinics
• Hospitals
• University dental clinics
• Prison facilities
• Nursing homes
• Schools

Corporate

Corporate dental hygienists are employed by companies that support the oral health industry through the sale of products and services. Leaders throughout the dental industry often employ dental hygienists due to their clinical experience and understanding of dental practice. Examples of corporate positions include:
• Sales representatives
• Product researchers
• Corporate educators
• Corporate administrators

Public Health

Community health programs are typically funded by government or nonprofit organizations. These positions often offer an opportunity to provide care to those who otherwise would not have access to dental care. Examples of positions for dental hygienists in public health settings include:

Clinician

• Rural or inner city community clinics
• Indian Health Service
• Head Start programs
• School sealant programs

Administrator

• State public health officer
• Community clinic administrator

Researcher

Research conducted by dental hygienists can be either qualitative or quantitative. Quantitative research involves conducting surveys and analyzing the results, while qualitative research may involve testing a new procedure, product or theory for accuracy, effectiveness, etc. Examples of employment settings for dental hygienist researchers include:
• Colleges and universities
• Corporations
• Governmental agencies
• Nonprofit organizations

Educator

Dental hygiene educators are in great demand. Colleges and universities throughout the U.S. require dental hygiene instructors who use educational theory and methodology to educate competent oral health professionals. Corporations also employ educators who provide continuing education to licensed dental hygienists. Examples of dental hygiene educators include:
• Clinical instructors
• Classroom instructors
• Program directors
• Corporate educators

Administrator

Dental hygienists in administrative positions apply organizational skills, communicate objectives, identify and manage resources, and evaluate and modify programs of health, education and healthcare. Examples of administrative positions
held by dental hygienists include:
• Clinical director, statewide school sealant program
• Program director, dental hygiene educational program
• Executive director, state association staff
• Research administrator, university
• Director, corporate sales

Entrepreneur

By using imagination and creativity to initiate or finance new commercial enterprises, dental hygienists have become successful entrepreneurs in a variety of businesses. Some examples of business opportunities developed by dental hygienists include:
• Practice management company
• Product development and sales
• Employment service
• CE provider or meeting planner
• Consulting business
• Founder of a nonprofit
• Independent clinical practice
• Professional speaker / writer

Thinking Outside the Box: The Path to a New Career FAQS

Q: I want to explore my career options outside of traditional clinical practice. Where do I start?
A: Equip yourself with information! These frequently asked questions are designed to provide insight to the process of determining what career paths are available and to identify the first steps necessary for you to begin the next phase of your career journey. Investigation and a thorough understanding of the dental hygiene landscape are the first keys to advancing your career.

Q: What career options are available to a dental hygienist?
A: In addition to clinical practice in private dental offices and clinics, dental hygienists have careers in the fields of education, research, administration, public health and advanced practice. For some great examples of the opportunities available within these fields, visit Working, an Access magazine column profiling dental hygienists working in unique settings.

Q: Are there new career options on the horizon?
A: Yes! This is an exciting time to be a dental hygienist. The profession of dental hygiene is at the crossroads of change, and the variety of career opportunities are expanding as never before. In order to stay relevant in a changing profession and to understand emerging roles, take a fascinating look into the future with the 2011-2021 ADHA Environmental Scan, a must read.

Q: Do I search for a position outside of traditional clinical hygiene the same way I approached my clinical positions?
A: Most entry-level dental hygiene programs focus almost exclusively on preparation for a clinical career, therefore your path to traditional clinical practice was clearly defined. The next stage of your career development requires a new, broader approach. You will need to use the critical thinking skills you have developed as a professional to investigate and pursue additional career options. Rather than a familiar or cookie-cutter approach, YOU design your unique career path through innovation, education and understanding.

Q: What new skill sets will I need?
A: A new career path requires new skill sets. For example, some non-traditional dental hygiene career paths involve clinical practice (collaborative practice, advanced practice, clinical educator, public health clinician, to name a few). Yet in order to be successful in these settings, additional business skills, educational methodology, knowledge of state practice acts and rules, or healthcare administration knowledge and skills may be necessary. The same is true for career paths with little or
no clinical component, such as corporate sales, product development, and didactic education, regulatory or legislative administration. New positions involve different work environments and processes, and therefore different knowledge and skill sets. You already possess valuable knowledge and skills that will transfer to a new setting; the next step is to identify the gaps and develop a plan to address them.

Q: Will I need additional education to advance my career path?
A: It is likely you will need to pursue additional education to advance your career. This may involve continuing education, college courses and/or an additional degree. Often the coursework required for a degree will lead to a career path you had not even envisioned. In order to advance your career, it’s important to be open to possibilities and commit to grow through
education.

Q: How can I get in touch with others who can help me?
A: We are all better together! Many hygienists have made the transition you are pursuing; seek out people who are willing to mentor you through your journey. Take advantage of networking opportunities whenever possible: attend meetings and CE sessions in your area of interest. Introduce yourself and ask questions. If you have not been active in your association previously, now is the time to connect through ADHA, on a local, state and national level. Communicating with people outside your current career track is critical in advancing your career.

Q: What resources does ADHA have to help?
A: ADHA is here to here to empower, support and develop YOU. For information regarding career advancement and professional development, including:

  • the long range outlook for the profession,
  • examples of career opportunities within public health,
  • employment trend data,
  • job listings,
  • resume writing,
  • career development CE courses and more

Visit the ADHA website at http://www.adha.org/careerinfo/dhcareers.htm.

FAQs about Dental Hygiene Education Programs and Accreditation

About Accreditation

Q: Does ADHA accredit dental hygiene programs?
A: No. While ADHA continues toward the goal of professional autonomy, which includes educational autonomy, the profession does not currently control all aspects of dental hygiene education. Entry level educational programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) .

Q: What does accreditation mean?
Accreditation is a peer‐review process of educational institutions or programs by an independent body that assesses and evaluates the quality of the institution and/or programs that it offers. There are two types of accreditation in the U.S.: (1) institutional (typically provided by a regional accrediting agency) and (2) specialized programmatic (provides accreditation for a specific program of study).
The Commission on Dental Accreditation was established in 1975 and is nationally recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) as the sole agency to accredit dental and dental-related education programs conducted at the post-secondary level. CODA's mission is to serve the oral health care needs of the public through the development and administration of standards that foster continuous quality improvement of dental and dental related educational programs. CODA defines accreditation as an evaluation process where an organization or agency (e.g., the Commission) uses experts in a particular field of interest or discipline (e.g., dental education) to define standards of acceptable operation/performance for universities/programs/organizations and measures compliance with them.
The mission of the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is to serve the public by establishing, maintaining and applying standards that ensure the quality and continuous improvement of dental and dental-related education and reflect the evolving practice of dentistry. The scope of the Commission on Dental Accreditation encompasses dental, advanced dental and allied dental education programs.

Q: Can a dental hygiene program open without CODA accreditation?
A: While graduation from an accredited program is a requirement for dental hygiene licensure, CODA accreditation is voluntary. A program may open without CODA accreditation; however its graduates would not be eligible for licensure in most states.

Q: Do students who graduate from a for-profit program receive the same level of education as a nonprofit program?
A: During its review process, the Commission evaluates programs in relation to predetermined standards which afford educational institutions latitude and flexibility in program development and implementation. In evaluating the educational process, the Commission applies the established accreditation standards for each discipline uniformly to all programs. CODA Accreditation Standards
All students who graduate from a CODA accredited programs are eligible to sit for national and regional board exams in order to become a licensed dental hygienist.

Proliferation of Programs

Q: Does CODA take into account the number of existing dental hygiene programs in a specific area when a new program is seeking accreditation?
A: Recently revised language in the Initial Application for CODA program accreditation reads:

  1. Describe the results of the institutional needs assessment that provided the basis for
    initiating a new program.
  2. Provide evidenced-based documentation of current and local/regional data which verifies an
    adequate patient population, qualified faculty and administration, and present employment
    opportunities for graduates.

Q: Does CODA take into account the saturation level of dental hygienists in a specific area when a new program is seeking accreditation?
A: When a new program applies for initial accreditation through CODA, the following is now included as part of the Initial Application:

  1. Describe the results of the institutional needs assessment that provided the basis for
    initiating a new program.
  2. Provide evidence‐based documentation of current and local/regional data which verifies an
    adequate patient population, qualified faculty and administration, and present
    employment opportunities for graduates.

Q: Does CODA regulate the number of graduates allowed at a specific program?
A: The mission of CODA is to serve the public by establishing, maintaining and applying standards that ensure the quality and continuous improvement of dental and dental-related education and reflect the evolving practice of dentistry. The Commission’s purview is the quality of educational programs, as opposed to the effect of graduates on the job market; therefore the Commission considers the number of program graduates only in terms of program resources.

Q: Is ADHA aware of the current unemployment climate for dental hygienists?
A: Yes, and ADHA has developed a number of employment resources for members including

  • The Career Center
  • An employment reference guide
  • A Path to a New Career FAQ
  • Career Opportunities in Public Health Presentation
  • Leadership workshops
  • An environmental scan detailing the future outlook of the profession
  • CE courses at CLL at annual session
  • Valuable networking and volunteer opportunities
  • Transforming Dental Hygiene Education and the Profession for the 21st Century

For a list of all member benefits please visit http://www.adha.org/aboutadha/benefits.htm

Q: What is ADHA doing to advocate on behalf of dental hygienists in regard to the proliferation of schools?
A: The approach is two‐fold; at the national and local level.

  • The ADHA Division of Education maintains a current data base of all accredited dental hygiene education programs by state. This is a listing of educational programs which offer degrees or certificates that provide entry to the professional practice of dental hygiene.
  • The ADHA Council on Education regularly reviews the Accreditation Standards for Dental Hygiene Education Programs developed by CODA, and has provided ongoing comments to CODA regarding recommended changes. While some of the recommendations made by ADHA have been adopted, those that have not continue to be revisited by the Council who continue to pursue these recommendations through CODA.
  • ADHA staff regularly attends CODA meeting open sessions, including those of the full Commission as well as the Dental Hygiene Review Committee.
  • In 2010 - 2011, ADHA coordinated a letter writing campaign that resulted in CODA receiving nearly 700 letters from ADHA members expressing concern about the proliferation of programs and urging CODA to REQUIRE that new dental hygiene programs conduct a comprehensive needs assessment prior to applying for accreditation. CODA adopted this change on February 3, 2012, with an implementation date of January 1, 2013.

The most significant advocacy role to address the opening of new dental hygiene education programs is
through the state and local dental hygiene association:

  • State higher education authorities seek state‐based or regional‐based workforce information that assists them in making decisions regarding program need in their specific geographical area. When potential programs contact our office for information or guidance, ADHA recommends they complete an analysis of the local, state, and regional employment market and review existing programs in the area. ADHA provides them with ADHA state contacts so they can obtain employment information firsthand.
  • ADHA assists state and local associations in determining a strategy in approaching developing programs

Q: I’ve heard rumors that a program is developing in my area. Who can I contact to express my concern?
A: There are several steps involved in establishing a new program. First, institutions of higher education that wish to sponsor a dental hygiene education program seek approval through the state. Secondly, programs seek voluntary accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

For developing programs in the process of seeking state approval:
Individuals or state dental hygiene associations who wish to contact one or more state education organizations/agencies may consult the ADHA Education Database available under Members Resources. The ADHA Higher Education Database contains information such as Higher Education Agencies, Organizations of Independent (Not-for-Profit) Colleges and Universities, Proprietary (For-Profit) Private Higher Education, State Board of Regents, Accreditation, and Regional Boards of Higher Education. Included in this database are specific questions you may wish to ask (as appropriate to your region, your state, your community), as well as resources and data that the state association could offer.

For developing programs in the process of seeking CODA initial accreditation:
Individuals or state dental hygiene associations may wish to contact the director or dean at the developing institution. A list of specific questions you may wish to ask (as appropriate to your region, your state, your community), as well as resources and data that the state association could offer are available on the ADHA website in Member Resources. You might also offer to sit on the program’s advisory committee, so you have the opportunity to offer suggestions as the program develops.
While specific CODA program application information is confidential and will not be discussed, you may also contact CODA to share data and express concerns. The initial CODA contact is:
Patrice Renfrow, Manager, Dental Hygiene Education, Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) at: renfrowp@ada.org or by phone at: 312‐440‐2705.

Q: How can I stay up-to-date on ADHA’s initiatives regarding the proliferation of dental hygiene programs?
A: Regularly monitor all of the ADHA communication channels, Spotlight, listservs and ADHA Update for the latest educational advocacy updates. The ADHA website is also updated regularly with information. Please visit www.adha.org to find more information.

ADHA’s Role in For-Profit Programs

Q: What is ADHA’s position on For-profit programs?
A: Existing ADHA policies regarding the opening of new programs most notably support that there must be a demonstrated need for a new program. ADHA’s advocacy role with the Commission on Dental Accreditation is to continue to express the importance of a comprehensive needs assessment prior to the granting of initial accreditation status of any proposed dental hygiene education program. ADHA has provided specific recommendations to the Commission to require developing programs that seek accreditation demonstrate evidence supporting the need for the program. CODA adopted this change on February 3, 2012, with an implementation date of January 1, 2013.
Once a program receives accreditation from CODA, it is recognized as a qualified dental hygiene program. All students, faculty and graduates are welcomed into our ADHA community.

Q: Can students from for-profit schools apply for ADHA student membership?
A: Yes. All dental hygiene students enrolled in an accredited program are encouraged to apply for membership.

Q: Can faculty at for-profit programs apply for ADHA membership?
A: Yes, any licensed dental hygienist can apply for membership and join the ADHA community. ADHA is an inclusive community that welcomes hygienists in a variety of workplace settings including dental hygiene education.

Q: As a state officer how do I approach a for-profit program?

A: Once a program is accredited it is part of the ADHA community. You should encourage membership for students and faculty as you would any program. In fact, some of your current constituent members may be teaching in for‐profit programs in your area and graduates will one day be your professional colleagues. When planning your visit, please go to the student section under the Members Resources for valuable tools and resources.

Dental team careers

Want to become a dental hygienist, dental assistant, lab technician, or a community dental coordinator? Learn more here.

Dental hygienist

As a dental hygienist, you will play an essential role in helping patients maintain good oral health. Performing regular cleanings and offering helpful tips for effective home care are among the key duties in your job description.

What does a dental hygienist do?

  • Performs patient screening procedures, including x-rays
  • Teaches patients how to practice good oral hygiene
  • Applies preventive materials such as fluoride and sealants to the teeth
  • Counsels patients regarding good nutrition and its impact on oral health
  • Removes calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) from the teeth

Where do dental hygienists work?

  • Dental offices of general dentists and dental specialists
  • Public health agencies, hospitals and community health clinics
  • Public school systems, dental schools and dental hygiene education programs
  • Sales and research for dental equipment and products

What benefits does a dental hygiene career offer?

Personal satisfaction: One of the most enjoyable aspects of a career in dental hygiene is working with people. Personal
fulfillment comes from providing a valuable health care service while establishing trusting relationships with patients.

Prestige: As a result of their education and clinical training in a highly skilled discipline, dental hygienists are respected as
valued members of the oral health care team.

Variety: Dental hygienists use a variety of interpersonal and clinical skills to meet the oral health needs of many different
patients each day. Hygienists have opportunities to help special population groups such as children, the elderly and the
disabled. They may also provide oral health instruction in primary and secondary schools and other settings.

Creativity: Because dental hygienists interact with such diverse population groups, they must be creative in their approach to patient management and oral health education.

Flexibility: Full-time and part-time employment options and the availability of evening and weekend hours enable dental
hygienists to balance their career and lifestyle needs. Hygienists also have opportunities to work in a wide variety of settings, including private dental practices, educational and community institutions, research teams and large group practices.

Security: Dental hygiene is projected to be one of the 30 fastest growing occupations in future years. Due to the success of preventive dentistry in reducing the incidence of oral disease, the expanding older population will retain their teeth longer, and will be even more aware of the importance of regular dental care. With the emphasis on preventive care, dentists will need to employ more dental hygienists than ever before to meet the increased demand for dental services.

Opportunities for non-traditional students: If you’ve been out of school for a while but are seeking a career change, dental hygiene may be an excellent choice for you. Online learning and flexible scheduling will benefit students with family
responsibilities as well as those who are working while they learn.

How can I train to become a dental hygienist?

There are more than 300 accredited dental hygiene education programs in community colleges, technical colleges, dental
schools and universities across the U.S. Most associate degree programs take at least two years to complete. Some universities offer four-year baccalaureate programs. Innovative training methods include distance learning and institution-based, didactic coursework combined with community experience.
You will receive hands-on clinical instruction in the form of supervised patient care experiences. Dental hygiene programs may also include courses in liberal arts (for example, English, speech, sociology and psychology); basic sciences (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, immunology, chemistry, microbiology or pathology); and clinical sciences (dental hygiene, radiology and dental materials).
After completing your dental hygiene education, you may choose to seek additional training in areas such as education,
business administration, basic sciences, marketing and public health.
When your coursework is complete, you can become a registered dental hygienist (RDH) by passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (a written test) and the authorized licensure exam in your state.

Where can I find more career resources?

To learn more about careers in dental hygiene, contact your own dentist, dental hygienist or the dental society in your area.
Arrange to visit a nearby dental office to observe a dental hygienist at work. You also can contact an accredited dental hygiene program to meet with a counselor or schedule a visit to the school. For more information on accredited dental hygiene education programs and continuing education courses, contact:

Dental assistant

As a dental assistant, you will handle a wide range of tasks such as taking x-rays and impressions and helping make patients comfortable before, during and after treatment.

Visit the American Dental Assistants Association, for information on Dental Assistants Recognition Week, March 6-12, 2022. This year's theme is: Dental Assistants: Passionate About Our Patients, Dedicated to Our Profession.

Dental laboratory technician

Dental lab technicians blend art and science to create custom dentures, crowns, veneers and orthodontic appliances that
restore smiles — and confidence.

Community Dental Health Coordinator (CDHC)

In 2006, the ADA launched the community dental health coordinator program to provide support and services for people
who may have difficulty gaining access to quality dental care. Learn more about this emerging role and what it takes to
become a CDHC.

Occupational Outlook Handbook: Dental Hygenists

Summary

  • 2020 Median Pay: $77,090 per year / $37.06 per hour
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
  • Work Experience in a Related Occupation: None
  • On-the-job Training: None
  • Number of Jobs, 2020: 206,100
  • Job Outlook, 2020-30: 11% (Faster than average)
  • Employment Change, 2020-30: 23,100

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

Work Environment
Nearly all dental hygienists work in dentists’ offices, and many work part time.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists typically need an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. Programs usually take 3 years to complete. All states require dental hygienists to licensed; requirements vary by state.

Pay
The median annual wage for dental hygienists was $77,090 in May 2020.

Job Outlook
Employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 15,600 openings for dental hygienists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for dental hygienists.