Dental hygienist salary varies greatly from one city to another, across the states in the country and it can also vary in the same city or district depending on the place where one works and how much experience one possesses.
Job Description
A dental hygienist is a healthcare professional who works at a dental practice, often under the direct supervision of a dentist. In many ways, a dental hygienist is an assistant to a dentist. The job of a dental hygienist is primarily to ensure that the overall dental health and hygiene of a person is well looked after. A dental hygienist participates in the diagnosis of certain dental conditions, in the treatment and recuperation of certain oral ailments. A dental hygienist would prepare a person for a treatment by cleaning the teeth and gums, by diagnosing the lymph nodes for sensitivity, tenderness or any kind of swelling, will ensure if a person is ready for a particular dental treatment and may also interpret medical reports. A dental hygienist is entrusted with the task of instilling proper oral care habits in patients and can often work as an assistant to the dentist and be the point of contact. A dental hygienist is also trained to diagnose conditions such as gum sores, gingivitis and teeth mobility among others.
The exact job profile or key responsibilities of a dental hygienist may vary from one practice to another. It also depends on the experience of the healthcare professional.
Salary Of A Dental hygienist
According to a salary report published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the salary of a dental hygienist is about $68,250 per year. This number varies as the higher earners among dental hygienists make around $76,672.
If a dental hygienist is working at private dentist offices then one may earn a salary of $67,220. If a dental hygienist is working in hospitals, then one may earn a yearly salary of $55,670. A dental hygienist working at outpatient care will earn an annual salary of $68,170. Dental hygienists earn a median hourly wage of $30.19 and an average hourly wage of $19.45.
Considering the range of dental hygienist salary, the average in the United States is about $41.00 an hour and $61,820 a year.
Salary Based On Experience Of A Dental hygienist
Like in any profession, more experienced dental hygienists will earn more than those with little to no experience. A dental hygienist who has less than one year experience or is just starting out after formal training will earn about $48,123 in the first year. This number can go up to more than $70,000 as one is more experienced and depending on where one practices and how efficient one is. As one progresses through the year, the income may increase considerably. Dental hygienists with three years experience may earn $54,000 and with more than five years of experience may earn about $69,594 or more. With 20 years of work experience or about that, a dental hygienist may earn more than $76,000.
The experience is not just weighed in based on the number of years one has practiced but also where one has practiced. Several such factors come into play while determining the salary of a dental hygienist. Those with an impeccable history and a reputation that is beyond dispute can earn more than $80,000 at top practices in a city.
Dental Hygienist Salary Across Countries
Like in most professions, dental hygienist salary varies from one state to another and also across countries. In the UK, the average salary is about 37,292 GBP. The median salary of a dental hygienist in the UK is a little lower at 36,500 GBP. The more experienced dental hygienists, especially those with 20 years or more of experience will earn more than 43,000 GBP in a year.
In Australia, the range of dental hygienist salary is vast. One may earn anywhere from 49,000 AUD to more than 100,000 AUD. Canada pays about 23 CAD to 46 CAD per hour which consequently becomes an annual salary of 42,000 CAD to more than 92,000 CAD, including bonuses.
In comparison, the UK and the US pay considerably more than Australia. Canada pays well but countries like South Africa pay less than Australia.
Across the states in the US and across countries, the actual hourly wage, the yearly salary, bonuses and commissions will depend on where one practices and on the terms of employment. Some dental hygienists may not be entitled to commissions, especially those who have little to no experience. As a dental hygienist builds a clientele and develops a reputation of his or her own, the commissions will be integral to the salary. Apart from the experience, the place and type of employment; the quality of training, education and expertise of a dental hygienist will determine the eventual salary.
