What Do They Do?
What Do They Do?
Dental hygienists are licensed professionals who provide preventive care, clean teeth, take xrays, and educate patients on oral hygiene. In some states, they may perform additional tasks like placing fillings or removing sutures. In New York, under dentist supervision, they can administer and monitor local anesthesia and nitrous oxide.
Where Do They Work?
Where Do They Work?
Dental hygienists primarily work in dental offices and clinics, but also in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and health departments. Over half work part-time.
How Much Do They Earn?
How Much Do They Earn?
Median annual salary: $96,427
Entry-level annual salary: $69, 612
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Searchable Wage Database: https://dol.ny.gov/occupational-wages-0
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand
Dental hygienists are expected to grow statewide by 22% between 2022 and 2032, with 1,033 average annual openings.
For More Information:
New York State Department of Labor Employment Projections: https://dol.ny.gov/employment-projections
Educational Requirements
Educational Requirements
In New York, dental hygienist programs are typically offered at community colleges, with most leading to an associate degree, while some universities offer a bachelor’s degree.
Licensure Requirements
Licensure Requirements
Dental hygienists in New York must be licensed, requiring graduation from an accredited or licensure qualifying program and passing both the national written and clinical exams. Continuing education is needed to maintain licensure. Additional certification is required to administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide.
Financial Support
Financial Support
Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.
For More Information:
American Dental Hygienists’ Association: https://www.adha.org/ioh/scholarships/
American Dental Education Association:
National Dental Association Foundation: https://ndafoundation.org/dental-scholarships.html
Education Programs
Education Programs
| Institution | Degree | City/Town | Region | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SUNY Orange Community College | AAS | Middletown | Hudson Valley | Visit |
SUNY Erie Community College | AAS | Williamsville | Western NY | Visit |
SUNY Broome Community College | AAS | Binghamton | Southern Tier | Visit |
Plaza College | AAS | Forest Hills | New York City | Visit |
New York University | AAS | New York City | New York City | Visit |
New York University | BS | New York City | New York City | Visit |
New York City College of Technology CUNY | AAS | Brooklyn | New York City | Visit |
Monroe Community College | AAS | Rochester | Finger Lakes | Visit |
Hudson Valley Community College | AAS | Troy | Capital Region | Visit |
Hostos Community College CUNY | AAS | Bronx | New York City | Visit |
Farmingdale State College SUNY | BS | Farmingdale | Long Island | Visit |