Position
Salary

How much does a Dental Hygienist make?

The average salary for a Dental Hygienist is $102,503 per year in the US.

Dental hygienists play a key role in oral health care. They work with dentists to clean teeth and check for signs of oral disease. The average yearly salary for a dental hygienist is $102,503. This means most dental hygienists earn between $68,000 and $145,000 each year. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer.

Experienced dental hygienists often earn more than those just starting. Those with several years of experience can earn closer to the higher end of the salary range. Location also matters. Urban areas tend to offer higher salaries than rural areas. The type of employer can affect earnings too. Dental hygienists working in private practices may earn more than those in public health settings. These factors can help dental hygienists find positions that match their career goals and financial needs.

View Dental Hygienist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Hygienist?

Seattle, WA, offers the highest average salary for dental hygienists, with professionals earning around $137,721 per year. This city provides excellent opportunities for those in the field. San Francisco, CA, and San Jose, CA, also rank high, with average salaries of $135,953 and $135,646, respectively. These cities offer competitive pay and a strong demand for skilled dental hygienists.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Dental Hygienist jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $137,721 and Santa Rosa, CA with the lowest at $120,562.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $137,721
    In Seattle, professionals find rewarding opportunities in modern dental practices. The city's focus on health and wellness makes it a great place to work. Companies like Delta Dental and Smile Brands offer excellent benefits.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $135,953
    San Francisco offers a vibrant environment for dental care providers. The city's diverse population and high demand for dental services lead to many job openings. Notable employers include UCSF Health and Smile Brands.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $135,646
    San Jose provides a dynamic setting for dental hygienists. The tech-savvy city offers a mix of traditional and modern practices. Companies like Aspen Dental and Smile Brands are prominent employers.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $131,594
    Salinas offers a community-focused environment for dental professionals. The city's smaller size means close-knit workplaces. Employers like Delta Dental and local practices provide a supportive work culture.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Salinas, CA


  5. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $127,203
    Santa Maria provides a welcoming atmosphere for dental hygienists. The city's growing population increases demand for dental services. Local practices and companies like Aspen Dental offer good career opportunities.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  6. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $125,506
    Anchorage offers a unique setting for dental professionals. The city's remote location provides a distinct work environment. Employers like Delta Dental and local clinics offer rewarding career paths.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Anchorage, AK


  7. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $123,228
    Vallejo offers a balanced environment for dental care providers. The city's mix of urban and suburban settings provides diverse job opportunities. Companies like Aspen Dental and local practices are key employers.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Vallejo, CA


  8. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $121,460
    Washington, DC, offers a prestigious environment for dental professionals. The city's high demand for dental services leads to many job openings. Employers like Delta Dental and local practices provide excellent career opportunities.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Washington, DC


  9. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $120,984
    Los Angeles provides a vibrant and diverse environment for dental hygienists. The city's large population and high demand for dental services create many job opportunities. Companies like Smile Brands and local practices offer rewarding careers.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  10. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $120,562
    Santa Rosa offers a charming setting for dental professionals. The city's smaller size means close-knit workplaces. Employers like Aspen Dental and local practices provide a supportive work culture.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

What are the best companies a Dental Hygienist can work for?

Hilde Family Dentistry offers the highest average salary for Dental Hygienists, making it a top choice. Chrisad and Dental Experts also provide competitive pay, with average salaries above $160,000. These companies value their dental professionals and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Dental Hygienist jobs, highlighting Hilde Family Dentistry with the highest at $302,609 and AB Staffing Solutions with the lowest at $128,859.
  1. Hilde Family Dentistry
    Average Salary: $302,609
    Hilde Family Dentistry offers competitive salaries and a welcoming work environment. They operate in several locations, providing comprehensive dental care. Their team-oriented approach makes it a great place to work.


  2. Chrisad
    Average Salary: $195,411
    Chrisad provides excellent opportunities for Dental Hygienists. They focus on patient care and have multiple locations. Their commitment to professional development is notable.


  3. Dental Experts
    Average Salary: $164,450
    Dental Experts is a well-known company with various locations. They offer a supportive work environment and focus on patient satisfaction. Their team values continuous learning and growth.


  4. Dr. Zak Dental Care
    Average Salary: $162,500
    Dr. Zak Dental Care provides a positive work atmosphere with a focus on patient care. They have several locations and offer opportunities for professional development.


  5. Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics
    Average Salary: $150,754
    Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics offers a collaborative environment with multiple locations. They emphasize patient care and provide opportunities for career advancement.


  6. Interim HealthCare
    Average Salary: $138,154
    Interim HealthCare provides a supportive work environment with various locations. They focus on patient care and offer professional development opportunities.


  7. Signature Dental Partners
    Average Salary: $132,132
    Signature Dental Partners offers a collaborative work environment with multiple locations. They focus on patient care and provide opportunities for career growth.


  8. DECA Dental Group
    Average Salary: $129,574
    DECA Dental Group provides a supportive environment with several locations. They focus on patient care and offer opportunities for professional development.


  9. Dental Professionals
    Average Salary: $129,198
    Dental Professionals offers a positive work environment with multiple locations. They focus on patient care and provide opportunities for career advancement.


  10. AB Staffing Solutions
    Average Salary: $128,859
    AB Staffing Solutions provides a supportive work environment with various locations. They focus on patient care and offer professional development opportunities.

How to earn more as a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on these key areas, professionals can enhance their skills and marketability. This leads to higher pay and more job satisfaction.

First, gaining additional certifications can open new job opportunities. Specializations in areas like pediatrics or periodontics can command higher salaries. Second, working in high-demand areas can lead to better pay. Urban centers and regions with fewer dental professionals often offer higher wages. Third, taking on leadership roles can increase earnings. Supervisory positions or managerial roles typically pay more. Fourth, pursuing a master's degree can lead to higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees can open doors to specialized roles and research opportunities. Finally, negotiating salaries effectively can result in better pay. Understanding the market rate and being prepared to discuss compensation can make a difference.

Consider these factors to boost earnings as a dental hygienist:

  • Obtain additional certifications
  • Work in high-demand areas
  • Take on leadership roles
  • Pursue a master's degree
  • Negotiate salaries effectively

Currently 5,227 Dental Hygienist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Dental Hygienist in the US?

Learn what a Dental Hygienist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Dental Hygienist today.
Position
Overview
Dental Hygienist
5,227 Job Openings