If you’re considering a career in dental hygiene, you’re looking at a profession that’s stable and rewarding and allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives. Dental hygienists don’t just clean teeth, they prevent oral diseases, educate patients, and help communities improve their overall oral health.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, thanks to the increasing focus on preventive dental care.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to become a dental hygienist in 12 detailed steps, from education and training to licensing and career growth.
What Is a Dental Hygienist and What Do They Do?
A dental hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who works alongside dentists to prevent, identify, and treat oral health issues. Their role goes far beyond cleaning teeth. A typical day may include:
- Cleans teeth by removing plaque, tartar, and stains to help prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Conducts oral exams to check for early signs of dental or gum disease.
- Takes X-rays to capture images and identify potential oral health problems.
- Applies treatments such as fluoride and sealants to strengthen teeth and prevent decay.
- Educates patients on proper brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene habits to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Dental hygienists often spend more one-on-one time with patients than dentists, making them crucial educators in oral health. Success in this role requires technical skills, precision, and strong communication.
12 Steps on How to Become a Dental Hygienist
1. Graduate from High School or Earn a GED
The first step in your dental hygiene journey is completing high school or earning a GED. Focus on science courses like biology, chemistry, and anatomy, as well as math and health classes. You can also gain early exposure by:
- Volunteering at dental offices or community clinics
- Job-shadowing dental hygienists or dentists
- Participating in health or science clubs
These experiences help you confirm your interest in dental hygiene and strengthen your application for dental hygienist schooling.
2. Complete Prerequisite College Courses
Most dental hygiene programs require you to complete prerequisite college courses, such as:
- Biology and Chemistry
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Psychology and Nutrition
- Algebra or Statistics
Completing these courses gives you a solid foundation for understanding oral health, disease prevention, and patient care. Many students take these classes at community colleges to save money before entering a formal dental hygiene program.
3. Choose the Right Dental Hygienist Schooling
Selecting the right program is crucial. Your dental hygienist schooling usually comes in two main forms:
- An associate degree in dental hygiene typically takes 2 to 3 years to complete and provides the education and clinical training needed to qualify for licensure exams.
- A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene usually takes about 4 years and includes advanced coursework, leadership development, and opportunities to specialize in research or public health.
A common question is: How long does it take to become a dental hygienist? The answer depends on your education and licensing path. Completing an associate degree plus exams may take about 2–3 years, while a bachelor’s degree path may take around 4 years.
After graduation, completing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a clinical board exam can add several months. Overall, most students become licensed dental hygienists within 2–5 years, depending on prerequisites, program choice, and exam preparation.
When choosing a program, make sure it’s CODA-accredited. Accreditation ensures your training meets national standards and qualifies you to take licensing exams. Also, look for programs with strong clinical partnerships, small class sizes, and high board exam pass rates. Visiting schools and speaking with students can help you find a program that aligns with your goals.
4. Gain Hands-On Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is a core part of dental hygiene training. During this phase, you’ll perform procedures on real patients under supervision:
- Professional teeth cleaning, scaling, and polishing
- Taking and interpreting dental X-rays
- Applying preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants
- Following infection control and safety protocols
- Educating patients about oral hygiene
Clinical hours give you confidence and help you refine your technique. Some programs offer rotations in specialized areas, such as pediatric or geriatric dentistry, which broadens your experience.
5. Obtain CPR Certification
CPR certification is required by most programs and employers. Emergencies, like a patient fainting or choking, can occur unexpectedly. Being certified ensures you can respond safely and professionally. Many dental hygiene programs include CPR courses as part of the curriculum, and renewing your certification regularly keeps you up-to-date.
6. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
The NBDHE tests your knowledge of:
- Dental hygiene theory and clinical procedures
- Patient management and education
- Infection control and safety
- Community oral health practices
Preparation may involve review courses, practice exams, and study groups. Passing this exam shows you have the theoretical knowledge required to provide safe, high-quality patient care.
7. Pass a Clinical Board Examination
Most states require a clinical board exam in addition to the written test. You’ll demonstrate your ability to:
- Perform professional cleanings and scaling
- Take and analyze X-rays
- Apply preventive treatments like sealants and fluoride
- Educate and communicate effectively with patients
This exam ensures that you can apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.
8. Apply for State Licensure
Licensure legally allows you to practice as a dental hygienist. Requirements vary by state but generally include:
- Graduation from a CODA-accredited program
- Passing scores on the NBDHE and clinical exams
- Background checks and application fees
Licensure confirms your professional qualifications and allows you to begin working in your chosen setting.
9. Consider Additional Certifications
Optional certifications can enhance your career:
- Local anesthesia administration
- Nitrous oxide sedation
- Laser dentistry
These credentials allow you to perform advanced procedures, increase your earning potential, and make you more competitive in specialized practices.
10. Start Your Career
With licensure in hand, you can work in a variety of settings:
- Private dental offices
- Public health clinics
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Schools or mobile dental units
Many dental hygienists also appreciate flexible hours and part-time opportunities. Early-career experience helps you refine patient communication skills, learn office workflow, and build confidence.
11. Engage in Continuing Education
Continuing education (CE) is essential for maintaining licensure and staying current. CE helps you:
- Stay updated on new dental technologies and procedures
- Learn updated infection control protocols
- Explore specialized areas like pediatric or periodontal care
Attending workshops, online courses, or seminars ensures you provide the best possible care while remaining competitive in your field.
12. Explore Career Growth Opportunities
Dental hygiene offers multiple growth paths:
- Pursue advanced degrees (bachelor’s or master’s)
- Specialize in pediatric, periodontal, or public health dentistry
- Transition into education, research, or leadership roles
- Open your own dental hygiene clinic
Continuing education and specialization keep your career fresh, challenging, and rewarding.
Turning Your Dental Hygiene Journey into a Rewarding Career
Becoming a dental hygienist is more than completing courses, exams, and clinical hours—it’s about shaping a career that balances skill, compassion, and impact. Every step you take, from your first science class to your first licensed patient interaction, builds the foundation for a career that not only supports your professional growth but also directly improves the health and confidence of the people you care for.
Dental hygiene offers stability, flexibility, and a variety of opportunities to specialize or advance into leadership, education, or public health roles. By embracing the 12 steps outlined above, you’re not just preparing for a job, you’re preparing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients while building a career that grows with you.
The journey may take effort, time, and persistence, but the rewards, a stable profession, a respected role in healthcare, and the ability to positively influence community oral health, make it truly worth pursuing.