Dental Hygienist Educational Requirements and Career Opportunities

This post provides the educational requirements you are expected to meet to become a dental hygienist, as well as other career information to help you become successful in your job and career as a dental hygienist.

But first, let’s get to know who a dental hygienist is:

Who is a Dental Hygienist?

A dental hygienist is a person who has completed a dental hygiene program, passed the National Board Examination (NBE) for certification as a dental hygienist and holds certification from ADA or AAOMS (the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons).

The job duties of a dental hygienist vary depending on the type of practice.

Some offices hire dental hygienists to clean patients’ teeth, remove tartar, and polish patients’ teeth.

Others may require dental hygienists only to provide oral health care services, such as scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatments.

Other practices may use both types of dental hygienists. 

Why Choose Dental Hygienist Career?

Here are some benefits and reasons you should choose to become a dental hygienist:

1. The Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dental hygienists’ employment is expected to expand 11 percent between 2020 and 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

On average, 15,600 openings for dental hygienists are expected per year during the next decade.

This growth rate is faster than that of all other occupations, except registered nurses.

2. Salary Potential

Also, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS, the average salary for a dental hygienist is $84,860 per year.

3. Work Environment

A typical day at work of a dental hygienist includes working with patients, performing oral health examinations and providing preventive care such as fluoride treatments and sealants.

You may also be required to perform x-rays, fillings, extractions and administer local anesthetics.

4. Flexibility

As a dental hygienist, you can work part time or full time. Some employers offer flexible work schedule so that you can balance your personal life with your career.

5. Growth Opportunities

There are many different types of jobs available within the field of dentistry. For example, there are positions related to public health, dentistry education, research, and administration.

Dental Hygienist Education Requirements

To become a dental hygienist begins from obtaining a degree and there are two options for achieving that:

One way is through online schooling and the other is on campus.

In summary, to obtain a dental hygiene certificate, you must complete the following requirements:

1. Completion of at least 120 credit hours.
2. Successful completion of the National Board Examination for certified dental hygienists.
3. Successful completion of a course in Basic Life Support (BLS).
4. Successful completion of CPR training.
5. Passing the NBE exam.
6. Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.
7. Submission of proof of graduation from high school or GAD equivalent.

Dental Hygienist Continuing Education

Continuing education courses are offered throughout the year. These courses include topics such as Infection Control, Endodontics, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Prosthodontics, and Restorative Dentistry. 

Dental Hygienist Certification/License

To work or practice as a dental hygienist in most of the States, you are required to be certified and licensed.

To become certified as a dental hygienist, you must pass both the NBE examination and the AAOS examination.

To do this, you must have a license. The requirements for obtaining a license from each State differ.

The American Dental Hygienic Association (ADA) offers three levels of certification.

They are:

• Diplomate

This level requires 5 years of experience after completing a dental hygiene program.

It is awarded upon successful completion of the NBE examination and passing the AAOS examination.

• Fellow

This level requires 10 years of experience after graduating from a dental hygiene program.

After completing the NBE examination and successfully taking the AAOS examination, it is awarded.

• Associate

This level requires 3 years of experience after graduating from a dental hygiene program and completion of the NBE and AAOS exams.

Dental Hygienist Career Opportunities

Here are various career opportunities available to a dental hygienist:

1. Clinician

The clinician pathway is the traditional route into the profession. The clinician works under the supervision of a dentist and provides patient care services.

Typical duties include administering anesthesia, assisting in oral surgery procedures, and providing routine dental care.

2. Administrative

Administrative assistants perform clerical tasks such as scheduling appointments, filing, answering phones, etc.

They may also be responsible for maintaining records and billing.

3. Research

Research assistants conduct studies and collect data. They may analyze results and present findings at scientific conferences.

4. Teaching

Teaching assistants work with students in classrooms and laboratories. Their primary role is to instruct and assist students in learning about various subjects.

5. Business Management

Business management includes administrative positions that focus on creating new programs and managing existing ones.

Examples include human resources managers, marketing directors, finance managers, and operations managers.

6. Public Health

Public health professionals provide preventive healthcare services to individuals and groups.

Some public health professionals focus on disease prevention while others specialize in environmental issues or community-based initiatives.

7. Administration

Administrators oversee the daily activities of an organization. They ensure that all employees are performing their jobs properly and efficiently.

Other career areas that dental hygienists

Can explore include:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Periodontology.

How to Advance your Dental Hygienist Career

There are many ways to advance your career in the field of dentistry. Follow these tips:

1. Be proactive.

If you want to make more money, then start looking for opportunities now. You can find openings through job boards, networking events, and word of mouth.

2. Network.

Join professional organizations, attend meetings, and volunteer. These activities will help you meet potential employers and gain valuable contacts.

3. Keep up with technology.

Technology has changed how we practice dentistry. Learn how to use computers and other electronic devices effectively to stay current.

4. Be flexible.

If you are not happy where you are working, then look for another position. It might take some time to find the right fit, but it could lead to better pay and benefits.

5. Take advantage of online courses.

There are many free online courses offered by universities and colleges. Many offer continuing education credits, which can help you earn additional certifications.

6. Don’t forget to ask questions.

Ask your supervisor if there are any open positions in their office. Also, talk to colleagues about what they do to get ahead

How to find a Good Dental Hygienist School

Finding a good dental hygiene school is important because this is where you will learn the skills needed to become a successful dental hygienist.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a dental hygiene program:

1. Location.

Choose a school near your home so you can easily commute.

2. Tuition costs.

Make sure the tuition cost is affordable.

3. Accreditation.

Look into whether the school is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

CODA accredits schools that prepare students for entry level employment as dental assistants.

This means that graduates from these schools have the knowledge and skills necessary to work as dental assistants.

4. Program length.

Consider taking classes at night or during summer breaks. This way, you can still pursue other interests without sacrificing your studies.

5. Faculty experience.

The faculty members should be experienced and knowledgeable. Ask them about their educational background and years of teaching experience.

How to be Successful in your Dental Hygienist Career

Becoming a successful dental hygienist requires hard work and dedication.

However, you don’t need to sacrifice your personal life to succeed in this profession.

Follow these tips to ensure success:

1. Get involved.

Participate in community service projects, join an organization, and network with people who hold similar careers.

2. Stay organized.

Use a calendar to keep track of appointments, deadlines, and assignments.

3. Do your homework.

Read books, articles, and blogs written by others who share your career goals.

4. Have fun!

Enjoy yourself while pursuing your career.

5. Know your strengths and weaknesses.

Identify your strengths and weaknesses and focus on improving areas you are weak.

Qualities of a Good Dental Hygienist

There are several qualities that make a good dental hygienist, including:

1. Dedication.

You must be dedicated to your career. It takes time to develop the skills needed to be a professional.

Therefore, it is important to put in the effort required to achieve your goal.

2. Integrity.

A good dental hygienist has integrity. They follows ethical standards and never compromises their principles.

3. Respectfulness.

Being respectful is one of the most important characteristics of a good dental hygienist.

They show respect to everyone they encounter.

4. Self-confidence.

Confidence is essential when performing any task. When you lack confidence, you will not perform well.

5. Knowledge.

You must possess the knowledge and skills to perform your job effectively.

Dental Hygienist Salary

According to the May 2022 data on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary of a dental hygienist in the United States is $84,860.

However, Indeed in its February, 2025 data shows the dental hygienist salary in the U.S. to be $106,640.

States with Highest Dental Hygienist Salaries

According to Ziprecruiter, the States that pay the highest salaries to dental hygienist include Washington and District of Columbia, with average salary of $99,627 and $99,401 per year.

Conclusion

In summary, becoming a dental hygienist is a rewarding career choice and offers lots of exciting career opportunities one can explore.

There are many benefits associated with being a dental hygienist, including high pay, flexible schedules, and the ability to help people improve their overall health.

If you are interested in becoming a dental hygienist, then this post has provided all you need to know about the educational requirements and other career information about the dental hygienist career to help you decide if that is what you want to do.