Dental Hygienist in Ohio
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OH
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Ohio
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Ohio, candidates 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 ADEX, CRDTS, SRTA, WREB, or NERB), and the Ohio Jurisprudence Exam. The application fee for initial licensure is $184, and the Ohio Jurisprudence Exam costs $48. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have current CPR certification, and pass a background check. Ohio has also passed legislation to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which will facilitate licensure portability for dental hygienists from other compact states.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Ohio
| Detail | Ohio |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Ohio State Dental Board |
| 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 (ADEX, CRDTS, SRTA, WREB, NERB), and the Ohio Jurisprudence Exam ($48) |
| Application Fee | $184 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 20.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Requires current CPR certification and a background check (BCI and FBI). Renewal is by December 31 of odd-numbered years. As of July 2, 2024, Ohio has passed legislation to join the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which will enhance licensure portability. |
Source: Ohio State Dental Board
Dental Hygienist Salary in Ohio
The median dental hygienist salary in Ohio is $81,620 per year, which is 13.4% below the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $71,520 |
| 25th | $78,330 |
| 50th (median) | $81,620 |
| 75th | $92,010 |
| 90th (experienced) | $99,490 |
Ohio employs approximately 8,500 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Ohio Worth It?
Factors to consider: Ohio's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.