Dental Hygienist in Alaska
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AK
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Alaska
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Alaska, applicants must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam (WREB or equivalent). Additionally, candidates must pass an Alaska jurisprudence exam and submit a comprehensive application with a fee of $300. The license must be renewed every two years, requiring 20 hours of continuing education and current CPR certification. Alaska also offers licensure by credentials for experienced dental hygienists from other states, and separate certifications are required for local anesthesia and nitrous oxide administration.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Alaska
| Detail | Alaska |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Alaska Board of Dental Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program |
| Exam | National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam (WREB, CRDTS, SRTA, CITA, ADEX) ($465) |
| Application Fee | $300 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 20.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Requires passing a state jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 70%. Minimum age of 18. A clean background check is mandatory. CPR certification is required for renewal. Local anesthesia and nitrous oxide administration require separate certification and application. Advanced practice permits require a minimum of 4,000 hours of clinical experience. |
Source: Alaska Board of Dental Examiners
Dental Hygienist Salary in Alaska
The median dental hygienist salary in Alaska is $129,760 per year, which is 37.7% above the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $58,340 |
| 25th | $112,470 |
| 50th (median) | $129,760 |
| 75th | $132,320 |
| 90th (experienced) | $135,400 |
Alaska employs approximately 770 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Alaska Worth It?
Factors to consider: Alaska's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.