New Hampshire
Interested in the “Live Free or Die” state, full of majestic mountains, vibrant cities, and serene lakes? We have seen an increased demand from our clients to recruit dental hygienists to New Hampshire. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, New Hampshire has the highest concentration of dental hygienists in the country. In the state, the average annual salary for dental hygienists is $92,840, which is 6% above the national average of $87,530. However, travel positions can earn much more due to their negotiation advantage.
Check out the open positions we have in New Hampshire.
Vermont
Considering traveling to the Green Mountain State? There is not a season in Vermont that you would want to miss. From snowy winters ideal for skiing to vibrant springs and summers, and the stunning fall foliage, this state offers a wealth of attractions for travelers. The dental hygienist salary in this state is generally comparable to neighboring New Hampshire and follows similar state guidelines.
Check out the open positions we have in Vermont.
California
As a cultural hub and economic powerhouse, California is a must-see destination. Hundreds of natural and man-made attractions offer loads of activity and new opportunities. Natural attractions like Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, and Lake Tahoe offer a new insight for dental assistants to see new habitats. Attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios speak to the influence of film and television that is produced in the area.
Given the significant population size, California has the largest employment levels of dental hygienists out of any state in the country. A dental hygienist’s salary in California is the second-highest in the nation, at $118,330. Also, two regions in California rank among the top 5 highest-paying non-metropolitan areas for this profession, with an average salary of $112,910.
Check out the open positions we have in California.
Delaware
Located just two hours from the United States’ capital, Delaware is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and favorable business climate. Compared to nearby states on the East Coast, Delaware has no sales tax. This means that visitors can save money and shop at the various premium shopping centers in the state.
A dental hygienist’s salary in the state is a mean of $98,660, which is above the national average for the occupation. Given the negotiation leverage that travel dental hygienists have, they can earn more and potentially save money on items if they are big shoppers.
Check out the open positions we have in Delaware.
Illinois
From bustling cities like Chicago to crucial farmland, Illinois has a lot to offer. Travel dentist hygienists can indulge themselves in the culture and the famous attractions. In Chicago, recreational spots like Millennium Park provide opportunities for sightseeing, with stunning views of the city skyline, the Chicago River, and Lake Michigan. On top of the scenic farmland, Illinois contains vibrant nature and wildlife areas like the Shawnee National Forest, known for its rare rock formations.
For travel dental hygienists, Illinois offers a plethora of options both urban and rural. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that east-central Illinois, a non-metropolitan area, has the highest concentration of dental hygienists, driven by a growing population and high quality of life. As for urban areas, the Chicago metropolitan region ranks third in employing dental hygienists, driven by the aging population.
Check out the open positions we have in Illinois.
Dental Hygienist FAQs
What is the typical dental hygienist salary in the US?
The dental hygienist salary was a median annual wage of $87,350, which includes both salary data and additional compensation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics report. To read more about salary and job outlook click here.
Can you see a dental hygienist without a dentist?
Yes, patients who reside in direct access states can choose to see a dental hygienist instead of a dentist. This means that patients can opt for dental cleaning and x-ray access for a lower cost than direct dentist interaction. Make sure to adhere to state regulations and review your insurance before making an appointment.
Can a dental hygienist clean teeth without a dentist present?
Yes, dental hygienists can clean your teeth without a dentist being present in the same room. However, the level of supervision and the scope of practice varies by state. In some states, dental hygienists are permitted to practice independently, while in others, their duties are limited to procedures like cleanings.
Overall, New Hampshire, Vermont, California, Delaware, and Illinois have either general supervision levels or do not require supervision at all. General supervision levels mean that the dentist must authorize the services beforehand, but does not need to be present during the procedure. This means that the travel dental hygienist jobs in the following states give you more authority over your job.
Do you see a dental hygienist before or after the dentist?
Patients see a dental hygienist before a dentist in a typical, non-emergency setting. Dental hygienists are trained to educate healthy dental hygiene habits, refresh teeth, and identify any concerns prior to an examination by a dentist.
Are dental hygienists allied health professionals?
Dental hygienists are classified as allied health professionals due to their expertise in care, treatment, and prevention, and their collaborative work with individuals who have received doctorate-level training. As a part of their allied health role, they work diligently on the front lines to be proactive in preventing disease, promoting healthy habits, and treating patients. Without dental hygienists, dentists would be overwhelmed, and patients would receive inadequate care. That is why dental hygienist salaries are above the national average by thousands of dollars.
How long does it take to be a dental hygienist?
Depending on the program, it can take between 2-4 years to become a dental hygienist. A registered dental hygienist (RDH) must undergo the proper process in order to be licensed in their respective state. First, a candidate must graduate from an accredited dental hygiene program. Then a candidate must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and meet any additional state-specific licensing requirements. It’s also important to note that dental hygienists must fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain their licensure.
Find a Travel Allied Healthcare Position with BHS
Are you searching for an allied health job? While this page focuses on a few states and positions, we have a diverse reach across all 50 states. Contact our experienced recruiters today.