How Much Do Dental Hygienists Make?
Overview of Dental Hygienist Salaries
Dental hygienists are healthcare professionals who specialize in cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices. They play a vital role in maintaining good oral health for their patients.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dental hygienists in the United States is $77,090 as of May 2020. This means that half of all dental hygienists earn more than this amount, while the other half earns less.
The salary range for dental hygienists varies depending on various factors such as experience, location, and type of employer. In general, dental hygienists who work in metropolitan areas, for larger practices or dental clinics, and who have more experience tend to earn higher salaries.
In addition to their base salary, dental hygienists may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and bonuses. Some dental hygienists may also have the opportunity to earn commission on the services they provide to patients.
Factors Affecting Dental Hygienist Salaries
Several factors can influence the salary of a dental hygienist, including education, experience, location, and job setting.
Education is an important factor that can impact a dental hygienist’s salary. Those with advanced degrees or specialized training, such as a bachelor’s degree or certification in anesthesia administration, may be eligible for higher pay.
Experience is another significant factor that can influence a dental hygienist’s salary. As dental hygienists gain more experience in the field, they may be able to negotiate higher salaries or seek out higher-paying job opportunities.
Location can also play a role in a dental hygienist’s salary. In general, dental hygienists who work in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living tend to earn higher salaries.
The type of job setting can also impact a dental hygienist’s salary. For example, dental hygienists who work in private practices or dental clinics may earn higher salaries than those who work in public health or community clinics. Additionally, dental hygienists who work part-time may have lower salaries than those who work full-time.
Overall, dental hygienists can maximize their earning potential by pursuing higher education or specialized training, gaining experience in the field, seeking job opportunities in metropolitan areas, and working in private practice or dental clinics.
Geographic Differences in Dental Hygienist Salaries
Dental hygienist salaries can vary significantly depending on geographic location. In general, dental hygienists who work in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in rural areas or regions with a lower cost of living.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paying states for dental hygienists as of May 2020 were Alaska, California, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada. These states had annual mean wages for dental hygienists ranging from $100,480 to $113,440.
On the other hand, the lowest-paying states for dental hygienists were Mississippi, Alabama, West Virginia, Arkansas, and Tennessee. These states had annual mean wages for dental hygienists ranging from $57,380 to $67,500.
It’s worth noting that salaries can also vary within a state or metropolitan area depending on factors such as experience, education, and job setting. Therefore, it’s important for dental hygienists to research salary information for their specific geographic location and job setting to gain a more accurate understanding of potential earnings.
Job Outlook and Salary Trends for Dental Hygienists
The job outlook for dental hygienists is strong, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is faster than the average for all occupations, and it’s attributed to an aging population and an increased focus on preventative dental care.
As the demand for dental services increases, so too does the demand for dental hygienists. This may lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities for qualified dental hygienists.
In addition to job growth, salary trends for dental hygienists are also promising. According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, the median salary for dental hygienists increased by 3.1% from 2019 to 2020, with an average hourly rate of $40.16.
The COVID-19 pandemic also brought about changes in the dental industry, with an increased focus on infection control and prevention. This has led to an increased demand for dental hygienists who are trained in infection control and can provide safe and effective care for patients.
Overall, the job outlook and salary trends for dental hygienists are positive, making it a promising career path for those interested in the dental field.
Tips for Maximizing Your Dental Hygienist Salary
There are several steps that dental hygienists can take to maximize their earning potential and increase their salary:
- Pursue advanced education or specialized training, such as a bachelor’s degree or certification in anesthesia administration.
- Seek out job opportunities in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living, where salaries tend to be higher.
- Gain experience in the field to negotiate higher salaries or seek out higher-paying job opportunities.
- Consider working in private practice or dental clinics, where salaries may be higher than in public health or community clinics.
- Negotiate salary and benefits during the hiring process and during performance reviews.
- Stay current with continuing education and training to expand your skills and knowledge, which may lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
- Consider working part-time or as a temp to gain experience and make connections in the field.
By taking these steps, dental hygienists can increase their earning potential and maximize their salary in this rewarding healthcare profession.
