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Dental Hygienist salary
Dental hygienists examine patients for signs of oral diseases and provide preventive care, including cleanings.
Median annual
$87,000
Median hourly
$42
Top 10% earn
$110,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$62,000
Median$87,000
Top 10%$110,000
Dental Hygienist salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $66,000 | $32 | -24% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $77,800 | $37 | -11% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $90,600 | $44 | +4% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $103,900 | $50 | +19% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified dental hygienists, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
Associate degree in dental hygiene and state licensure.
Job outlook
9% growth through 2033 — strong demand as population ages.
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