How much does a Dental Hygienist make?
Dental Hygienists play a key role in oral health care. They work closely with dentists and patients to ensure clean and healthy teeth. The average yearly salary for a Dental Hygienist is around $102,099. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and other factors.
The salary range for Dental Hygienists can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $68,000 per year. The highest 10% can earn over $143,000 annually. Most Dental Hygienists fall between $81,773 and $129,977 each year. This range shows that with more experience and skills, earnings can increase significantly.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Hygienist?

-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $137,441
San Jose offers a vibrant environment for dental professionals. With numerous dental clinics, job seekers can find diverse opportunities. Companies like Delta Dental and Smile Brands provide excellent career growth.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $136,678
Seattle is a great place for those in the dental field. The city boasts a strong community focus on health. Dental practices here often emphasize patient care, offering rewarding work experiences.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $135,135
In San Francisco, dental hygienists enjoy a dynamic work setting. The city's high demand for dental services means plenty of job opportunities. Practices like UCSF Health focus on innovation and excellence.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $132,961
Salinas provides a welcoming atmosphere for dental professionals. The city's growing population means more patients and job stability. Local practices value teamwork and patient satisfaction.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Salinas, CA
-
Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $126,512
Santa Maria offers a friendly community for dental hygienists. The area's focus on health creates a steady demand for dental services. Local clinics provide a supportive work environment.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $123,065
Anchorage presents unique opportunities for dental professionals. The city's remote location offers a distinct work experience. Practices here emphasize community care and patient education.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Anchorage, AK
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $121,930
Santa Rosa is an ideal place for dental hygienists. The city's growing population ensures a steady need for dental services. Local practices focus on quality care and professional development.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $121,150
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment for dental professionals. The city's diverse population provides a wide range of experiences. Practices like Kaiser Permanente offer extensive career growth opportunities.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $120,323
Washington, DC, offers a dynamic setting for dental hygienists. The city's focus on health and wellness creates many job opportunities. Practices here often emphasize patient care and community service.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $120,220
Stockton provides a supportive environment for dental professionals. The city's growing community means more patients and job stability. Local clinics focus on patient care and professional development.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Stockton, CA
What are the best companies a Dental Hygienist can work for?

-
Hilde Family Dentistry
Average Salary: $304,286
Hilde Family Dentistry offers competitive salaries and a supportive work environment. They operate in various locations, providing comprehensive dental care. Their team-oriented approach ensures high-quality patient care.
-
Dental Experts
Average Salary: $163,461
Dental Experts provides a rewarding work experience with a good salary. They have multiple locations and focus on patient satisfaction. Their commitment to professional development helps hygienists grow in their careers.
-
Interim HealthCare
Average Salary: $134,424
Interim HealthCare offers a stable salary and a chance to work in diverse settings. They operate across many locations, providing flexible scheduling options. Their emphasis on patient care creates a fulfilling work environment.
-
AB Staffing Solutions
Average Salary: $131,380
AB Staffing Solutions provides competitive pay and offers opportunities in various locations. They focus on matching hygienists with the right positions. Their support system helps professionals achieve their career goals.
-
DECA Dental Group
Average Salary: $129,574
DECA Dental Group offers a good salary and a collaborative work environment. They have multiple locations and prioritize patient care. Their team-focused approach ensures a supportive work atmosphere.
-
Dental Professionals
Average Salary: $129,029
Dental Professionals provides a stable salary and a chance to work in various locations. They focus on professional growth and patient satisfaction. Their supportive environment helps hygienists thrive.
-
West Coast Dental Services
Average Salary: $126,784
West Coast Dental Services offers a good salary and opportunities in multiple locations. They emphasize patient care and professional development. Their team-oriented approach creates a positive work environment.
-
Allred Dental
Average Salary: $125,667
Allred Dental provides a competitive salary and a supportive work environment. They operate in various locations, focusing on patient care. Their commitment to professional growth helps hygienists advance in their careers.
-
Enable Dental
Average Salary: $125,228
Enable Dental offers a good salary and a chance to work in diverse locations. They focus on patient satisfaction and professional development. Their supportive team environment ensures a fulfilling work experience.
-
Ultimate Dental Group
Average Salary: $124,615
Ultimate Dental Group provides a stable salary and opportunities in various locations. They prioritize patient care and professional growth. Their supportive work environment helps hygienists achieve their career goals.
How to earn more as a Dental Hygienist?
Dental hygienists have many ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on certain areas, they can boost their income and job satisfaction. One key factor is gaining more experience. Experienced hygienists often earn more than those just starting. They also have more opportunities to take on leadership roles.
Another way to earn more is by getting specialized certifications. These can include certifications in areas like periodontics or pediatric care. These skills can make a hygienist more valuable to employers. They can also open up higher-paying job opportunities. Continuing education is important. It helps hygienists stay current with the latest practices and technologies. This can lead to better job performance and higher pay.
Location also plays a big role in earnings. Hygienists in urban areas or regions with a high demand for dental care often earn more. Working in private practices, clinics, or hospitals can also affect pay. Some settings offer higher salaries than others. Networking with other professionals can help hygienists find these better-paying jobs. Building a strong professional reputation can also lead to higher-paying opportunities.
Finally, consider working part-time or overtime. Some hygienists choose to work extra hours to increase their income. This can be a good option for those who want more flexibility in their schedules. It can also be a way to earn more without a full-time commitment.
- Gain more experience
- Get specialized certifications
- Choose the right location
- Network with other professionals
- Consider part-time or overtime work



