Dental Hygienist Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $137,220 | |
| Alaska | $132,690 | |
| Washington | $131,160 | |
| California | $124,930 | |
| Oregon | $122,080 | |
| Nevada | $115,290 | |
| Colorado | $109,580 | |
| Maryland | $107,830 | |
| National Median | $98,100 |
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The highest sticker pay isn't always where dental hygienists keep the most. See Dental Hygienist pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.
How to Become a Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral disease, and provide preventive dental care.
Meet the education requirement
Most dental hygienists enter the field with associate's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $74,880 and rises toward $126,050 with experience.
Dental Hygienist salary: common questions
How much does a Dental Hygienist make an hour?
The median hourly wage for dental hygienists is $47.16, which works out to about $98,100 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays dental hygienists the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for dental hygienists at $137,220 per year — 40% above the national median of $98,100.
What is the salary range for dental hygienists?
Most dental hygienists earn between $74,880 and $126,050 per year. The middle 50% earn $83,570 to $108,480, with a median of $98,100.
Is becoming a Dental Hygienist a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 7% (faster than average), and the role typically requires associate's degree. With a median wage of $98,100 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.