How much does a Dental Hygienist make?
Dental Hygienists can earn a good income. The average yearly salary for a Dental Hygienist is $101,815. This means that someone in this job can expect to make around $101,815 per year. Dental Hygienists who have been in the field longer or have specialized skills can earn even more. This is a great opportunity for those looking to build a stable career.
Dental Hygienists' salaries can vary based on several factors. Some of these factors include location, experience, and the type of employer. For example, Dental Hygienists in certain cities or states may earn more due to higher living costs or demand. Experienced Dental Hygienists often make more than those just starting out. Working for a private dental practice or in a specialized clinic can also lead to higher pay. These differences show that there is potential for growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Dental Hygienist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $141,032
In San Francisco, dental professionals find a bustling environment with diverse patient populations. The city is home to renowned dental practices like San Francisco Dental Society, offering various opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $140,748
Seattle offers a vibrant community for oral health care providers. Dental hygienists here enjoy a healthy job market, with practices like Seattle Children’s Hospital providing excellent career options.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $137,115
San Jose presents a thriving field for oral health specialists. The tech-driven culture also extends to healthcare, with institutions like Kaiser Permanente expanding their dental services.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $133,753
Memphis is a welcoming city for those in the dental field. Here, professionals can work in well-established clinics, with the University of Tennessee offering additional educational opportunities.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $131,065
Santa Maria offers a smaller community feel for dental practitioners. It’s an ideal location for those who prefer a more personal patient interaction experience.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $129,524
In Anchorage, the demand for dental services is steady. Professionals here enjoy the unique Alaskan lifestyle and work in various healthcare settings.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $129,029
Vallejo provides a balanced work environment for dental hygienists. The city's diverse population ensures a variety of cases, enriching the professional experience.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $128,402
Salinas offers a supportive community for oral health professionals. This city provides a blend of urban and rural opportunities, with local practices looking for skilled hygienists.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $127,509
Washington, DC, provides a dynamic environment for oral health care. The city's professional network offers numerous job openings and educational seminars.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $125,426
Boulder’s vibrant community and natural surroundings make it a great place for dental professionals. The city boasts several clinics that value patient care and innovation.
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What are the best companies a Dental Hygienist can work for?

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Hilde Family Dentistry
Average Salary: $287,258
Hilde Family Dentistry provides top-notch dental care. They have offices in Houston, Texas. They focus on patient comfort and advanced dental techniques.
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Chrisad
Average Salary: $191,508
Chrisad offers dental services across multiple states. They value teamwork and patient care. Locations include Arizona, California, and Colorado.
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The Dentist Group
Average Salary: $163,750
The Dentist Group has locations in Georgia and Alabama. They offer a wide range of dental services and focus on patient education.
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Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics
Average Salary: $146,606
Jefferson Dental & Orthodontics is known for its comprehensive dental care. They operate in Texas, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
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Park Dental
Average Salary: $140,298
Park Dental provides quality dental care in Michigan and Ohio. They are committed to excellence and patient satisfaction.
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Interim HealthCare
Average Salary: $138,364
Interim HealthCare offers home-based dental care. They serve multiple states, focusing on patient comfort and convenience.
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Dental Connections
Average Salary: $136,571
Dental Connections has offices in Florida and California. They provide various dental services with a focus on patient-centered care.
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Hero Practice Services
Average Salary: $134,115
Hero Practice Services supports dental practices across the country. They offer administrative and clinical support, enhancing patient care.
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Espire Dental
Average Salary: $131,729
Espire Dental focuses on affordable dental care. They have locations in Arizona and Nevada. They provide quality care at lower costs.
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AB Staffing Solutions
Average Salary: $130,843
AB Staffing Solutions offers dental staffing solutions nationwide. They work with dental practices to ensure quality patient care.
How to earn more as a Dental Hygienist?
Dental Hygienists have many paths to increase their earnings. Building a successful career in this field involves a mix of skills, experience, and strategic career moves. By focusing on certain areas, a Dental Hygienist can significantly boost their salary and overall job satisfaction.
Here are key factors that can help increase earnings:
- Gain Additional Certifications: Specialized certifications can set you apart from other Dental Hygienists. Certifications in areas like periodontics or orthodontics often lead to higher pay rates.
- Pursue Advanced Education: Earning a bachelor's or master's degree in dental hygiene can open doors to higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees can lead to roles in education, research, or administration.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on supervisory or managerial positions can increase your earnings. Leadership roles often come with higher salaries and additional benefits.
- Work in High-Demand Locations: Certain areas may pay more due to a higher cost of living or a shortage of Dental Hygienists. Urban centers and regions with fewer practitioners often offer better compensation.
- Consider Expanding Practice Hours: Offering evening or weekend hours can increase your income. Many practices are willing to pay a premium for flexible scheduling to accommodate patients.



