Dental Hygienist in New Mexico
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NM
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in New Mexico
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in New Mexico, applicants must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass three examinations: the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (such as WREB, CRDTS, CDCA, or SRTA), and the New Mexico Jurisprudence Exam. Additionally, applicants need to complete a background check, obtain local anesthesia certification, complete infection control training, and maintain current CPR certification. New Mexico also offers licensure by credentials for experienced dental hygienists from other states and is enacting an interstate compact to further facilitate practice across state lines.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in New Mexico
| Detail | New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program |
| Exam | National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (WREB, CRDTS, CDCA, SRTA), and the New Mexico Jurisprudence Exam ($1,225) |
| Application Fee | $350 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 45.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | CPR certification required. Renewal is triennial by June 30. A background check is required. Must complete cultural competency training, local anesthesia certification, and infection control training. |
Dental Hygienist Salary in New Mexico
The median dental hygienist salary in New Mexico is $96,410 per year, which is 2.3% above the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $80,020 |
| 25th | $83,200 |
| 50th (median) | $96,410 |
| 75th | $99,210 |
| 90th (experienced) | $103,000 |
New Mexico employs approximately 1,400 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in New Mexico Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Mexico's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.