Dental Hygienist in Arkansas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AR
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Arkansas
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Arkansas, applicants must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and successfully complete the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam. Additionally, candidates must pass the Arkansas Jurisprudence Examination, undergo a criminal background check, and hold a current Healthcare Provider level CPR certification. Arkansas also offers licensure by credentials for experienced dental hygienists licensed in other states.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Arkansas
| Detail | Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arkansas State 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 (SRTA, CRDTS, WREB, CITA, ADEX) |
| Application Fee | $5 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 40.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Requires passing a state jurisprudence exam and a criminal background check. Current Healthcare Provider level CPR certification (not online) is required. Minimum age of 18 for licensure. |
Dental Hygienist Salary in Arkansas
The median dental hygienist salary in Arkansas is $83,760 per year, which is 11.1% below the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $56,430 |
| 25th | $79,470 |
| 50th (median) | $83,760 |
| 75th | $95,260 |
| 90th (experienced) | $101,250 |
Arkansas employs approximately 1,790 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Arkansas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arkansas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.