Dental Hygienists

The dental hygienist's income is influenced by such factors as education, experience, locale, and type of employer. Most dental hygienists who work in private dental offices are salaried employees, although some are paid a commission for work performed or a combination of salary and commission.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, full-time hygienists earned a median annual salary of $87,530 in May 2023. The lowest paid 10 percent of hygienists earned $65,110 annually, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $118,400. Fifty percent of dental hygienists earned between $78,010 and $100,630. Salaries in large metropolitan areas are generally higher than in small cities and towns (although the cost of living is typically higher in these places, too). In addition, dental hygienists in research, education, or administration may earn higher salaries.

A salaried dental hygienist in a private office typically receives a paid two- or three-week vacation. Part-time or commissioned dental hygienists in private offices usually have no paid vacation. Other benefits for full-time hygienists usually include health insurance, sick leave, and retirement plans.