How to Become a Dental Hygienist: Education & Licensing

If you're considering a career in oral healthcare, becoming a dental hygienist is a lucrative option that offers numerous opportunities. Dental hygienists play a crucial role in the dental field, providing essential services that help maintain oral health. 

In this blog, we’ll explore how to become a dental hygienist, including the necessary education and licensing requirements. 

Understanding the Role of a Dental Hygienist

Before diving into how to become a dental hygienist, it’s important to understand what the job entails. Dental hygienists are licensed oral healthcare professionals who work alongside dentists to provide preventive and therapeutic services.

These professionals are often the first point of contact for patients, making them essential members of the dental team. 

The primary responsibilities of a dental hygienist are as follows:

How to Become a Dental Hygienist: Education Requirements

To understand how to become a dental hygienist, it is essential to know the dental hygienist education requirements. 

First, to be eligible, you should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Post that, you need to enroll in a dental hygiene program.

What are dental hygienist programs?

The dental hygienist programs provide a comprehensive education in dental hygiene, combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. 

The courses cover various topics, including anatomy, physiology, radiography, periodontology, and dental materials.

These programs are offered at various educational institutions from community colleges, and universities to dental schools.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Hygienist?

After ‘how to become a dental hygienist’ this is the second most asked question whenever there is a discussion about dental hygienists. 

So, "How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?" The answer depends on your educational path. 

• An associate degree in dental hygiene typically takes about 2-3 years to complete. This is the most common method to become a registered dental hygienist.

• For those pursuing advanced education, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are also available. 

• A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene usually takes 4 years, while a master’s degree may require an additional 1-2 years of study. 

These advanced degrees can open up opportunities for career advancement, research, teaching, and specialized roles within the field.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist: Licensing and Certification

To practice on legal grounds, aspiring dental hygienists need to obtain the required license. The process for getting one involves the following steps:

1. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)

The NBDHE is a comprehensive written exam that evaluates a candidate’s knowledge and understanding of dental hygiene principles. 

This exam is typically administered by the American Dental Association's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. 

2. Complete Clinical Examinations

Next, candidates must also pass a clinical examination. These exams assess a candidate's practical skills and abilities in providing dental hygiene care to patients. Clinical exams are usually conducted by regional or state testing agencies.

3. Apply for State Licensure

Once you have qualified both, you can apply for state licensure. Each state has its licensing board that oversees the application process and sets specific requirements. Make sure to research the requirements of the state where you intend to practice.

Career Opportunities and Outlook

The number of candidates wanting to pursue a dental hygienist career continues to grow, as it provides a promising future. 

Dental hygienists can work in various settings, including private dental offices, public health clinics, hospitals, educational institutions, and research facilities. 

Here’s a comparison chart to help you understand the difference:

Advantages of Being a Dental Hygienist

Having a dental hygienist career offers numerous advantages, which include:

• Job Stability: Dental hygienists are always in demand, which ensures a stable and secure job.
• Competitive Salaries: Dental hygienists typically earn competitive salaries, which makes it a financially rewarding career. For a more detailed salary guide checkout our Dental Hygienist Salary Guide to know more about competitive salaries.

• Flexible Schedules: Many dental hygienists enjoy flexible work schedules that allow them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Opportunities for Advancement: With additional education and experience, dental hygienists can pursue advanced roles or specialize in specific areas.

Final Thoughts

To conclude, building a career as a registered dental hygienist will ensure you a future that will be both rewarding and promising. 

So, we hope that equipped with the knowledge of how to become a dental hygienist, from educational to licensing requirements, you will lead a fulfilling career that positively impacts patients' oral health and overall well-being.

Until next time.