Dental Hygienist Salary In Seattle – Here Is How Much They Make In Washington
If you’re considering a career as a dental hygienist in Seattle, it’s important to understand the financial prospects in this region. In Washington, dental hygienists enjoy some of the highest salaries in the healthcare field, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals in this area. Seattle, in particular, stands out due to its thriving healthcare sector and numerous employment opportunities in dental practices and clinics.
The article will explore dental hygienist salaries in Seattle, comparing it with other cities in Washington to give a comprehensive picture of what you can expect regarding compensation. Let’s have a look at the requirements to become a dental hygienist in Seattle first.
How To Become a Dental Hygienist in Seattle?
Here’s a roadmap to become a dental hygienist in Seattle:
Earn an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene (ADH):
This is the minimum educational requirement to become a licensed dental hygienist. Several colleges in the Seattle area offer ADH programs.
Complete Clinical Requirements:
ADH programs include classroom learning and supervised clinical practice in dental settings.
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE):
This computer-based exam assesses your knowledge and skills in dental hygiene.
Washington State Dental Hygiene License:
The Washington State Department of Health regulates dental hygienists. You’ll need to submit your application, transcripts, NBDHE scores, and other required documents.
Pre-requisites:
Some programs might have pre-requisite courses in biology, chemistry, or other sciences.
Application Requirements:
Programs typically require transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Externship Requirements:
Some programs may require an externship to gain additional clinical experience.
Continuing Education:
Dental hygienists are required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licenses.
How Much Is a Dental Hygienist Salary In Seattle WA?
The average dental hygienist salary in Seattle, WA falls between $81,701 and $103,379. So the average hourly wage in Seattle, WA likely falls between $40 and $60. Your actual salary will depend on the following several factors:
- Hygienists with more experience command higher salaries.
- Advanced degrees or certifications increase earning potential.
- Specialized skills or experience in certain areas like pediatrics or periodontics could be advantageous.
- Salaries can differ between private practices, public health settings, or hospitals.
FAQs
Which State Has The Most Dental Hygienist?
California has the highest number of employed dental hygienists in the US, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data.
Is There A Shortage Of Dental Hygienists In The US?
Yes, there is a shortage of dental hygienists in the US. This is due to factors like:
- Increased demand for dental services.
- Many experienced hygienists are reaching retirement age.
- Cost and time commitment of dental hygiene programs.
What Is The Fastest You Can Become A Dental Hygienist?
The fastest path to becoming a dental hygienist is through an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene (ADH) program. These programs often take two years to complete, full-time.
