Dental Hygienist in North Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NC
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in North Carolina
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in North Carolina, you must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (CITA or ADEX), and North Carolina's online jurisprudence and infection control/sterilization exams. The licensing body is the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners. Additionally, applicants must hold current CPR certification at the Healthcare Provider level and undergo a criminal background check. While North Carolina does not offer reciprocity, licensure by credentials and military endorsement are available for eligible candidates.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in North Carolina
| Detail | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | North Carolina 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 (CITA or ADEX) ($275) |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Continuing Education | 6.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Requires passing a jurisprudence exam and an infection control/sterilization exam. CPR certification at the Healthcare Provider level (BLS/CPR, AED with practical skills component) is required and must be current at all times. A criminal background check is also required. There is a $50 late penalty for renewals after January 31st. Beginning February 1, 2025, a new online licensing and enforcement system is being implemented. One hour of continuing education on substance abuse and mental health is required every two calendar years. Dental hygienists certified to administer local anesthetics need two CE hours annually specific to local anesthetics and medical emergencies. Public health dental hygienists have additional CE requirements. |
Dental Hygienist Salary in North Carolina
The median dental hygienist salary in North Carolina is $89,720 per year, which is 4.8% below the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $76,860 |
| 25th | $80,300 |
| 50th (median) | $89,720 |
| 75th | $96,590 |
| 90th (experienced) | $99,570 |
North Carolina employs approximately 7,030 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in North Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: North Carolina's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.