The salary of a dental hygienist varies based on education, experience, and location. The median salary of a dental hygienist in the United States as of April 2009 is approximately $65,500. The 75th percentile makes an average of $72,750, and the 25th percentile makes an average of $57,300. The median hourly wage is an estimated $31.00 per hour. The highest paid dental hygienists graduate from top programs and tend to land the higher paying jobs in urban and suburban regions.
The projected job outlook for dental hygienists is generally very positive in upcoming years, with a projected growth rate of 30% in the next six to eight years. Many dentists are retiring and new dental school graduates are replacing them. These younger dentists are projected to be more likely to hire multiple hygienists, and these hygienists will likely perform routine cleaning and be involved in educating patients on the best methods for good oral hygiene.
While the track to becoming a dental hygienist may require long hours of study, aspiring dental hygienists can look forward to a rewarding career with a relatively high paying salary and a stable job outlook.