How Much Do Dental Hygienists Make?

Dental hygienists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $89,890, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 211,000 professionals employed in this field, dental hygiene continues to be a stable and rewarding career choice in the health care industry.

These oral health care professionals play a vital role in promoting and maintaining good dental health. Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases, and provide preventive dental care. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and nutrition for optimal dental health. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the world of dental hygiene, exploring how salaries and job opportunities vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in the health care field, offering valuable insights for those considering a career in dental hygiene or looking to advance their current position.

Highest Paying States for Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists seeking lucrative opportunities may find the best compensation in the following states, based on the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Washington leads with an impressive average annual salary of $123,510 and an hourly mean wage of $59.38. The state employs approximately 6,620 dental hygienists.
• California follows closely with an average annual salary of $118,330 and an hourly wage of $56.89, boasting the highest employment figure of 24,880 dental hygienists.
• Alaska offers an average annual salary of $115,980 and an hourly wage of $55.76, although the state employs a smaller workforce of 610 dental hygienists.

Other states offering competitive salaries include:

• Oregon, with an annual mean salary of $103,440 and employing 2,930 dental hygienists.
• Colorado and Maryland, each offering average annual salaries just above $101,000, with employment figures of 4,700 and 3,590, respectively.

These states not only provide excellent compensation packages but also have varying levels of employment opportunities, with California being a standout due to its high demand for dental hygienists.

Comparing Salaries in Dental Professions

When it comes to dental professions, there's a clear difference in salaries depending on the job role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assistants earn an average annual salary of $47,350, which breaks down to about $22.77 per hour. This group is the largest among the three, with 370,690 employed across the country. In comparison, dental hygienists have a higher average annual salary of $89,890, or $43.21 per hour, with 211,630 employed in this role.

General dentists top the salary chart with an impressive average annual income of $191,750, translating to $92.19 per hour. However, there are fewer general dentists, with a total employment of 121,640. It’s clear that as the level of expertise and responsibility increases in the dental field, so does the salary, reflecting the specialized skills and education required for each role.

Bottom Line

Becoming a dental hygienist offers a rewarding career path within the health care industry, with an average annual salary of approximately $89,890. This profession not only provides a stable income but also plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health, offering preventive care, and educating patients on proper hygiene practices. For those considering a career in dental hygiene, here are some key takeaways:

• Financial Prospects: Dental hygienists earn significantly more than dental assistants, who average $47,350 annually, but less than general dentists, who earn around $191,750.
• Regional Opportunities: States such as Washington, California, and Alaska offer the highest salaries, with Washington leading at $123,510 annually. Employment opportunities vary, with California employing the most dental hygienists.
• Job Stability: With over 211,000 dental hygienists employed across the United States, the field offers a secure and expanding job market.

Aspiring dental hygienists can look forward to engaging work that combines technical skills with patient interaction, contributing to the overall well-being of their communities.