Dental Hygienist in South Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SC
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in South Carolina
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in South Carolina, individuals must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (such as CRDTS, ADEX, SRTA, or CITA), and the South Carolina Jurisprudence Exam. The licensing body is the South Carolina Board of Dentistry. While South Carolina does not have direct reciprocity agreements, the Board may grant licenses to those from other states who are members of regional testing services that South Carolina also recognizes, or those who have actively practiced for at least five years may apply for licensure by credential. Applicants must also maintain current CPR certification and complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years, with two hours specifically in sterilization and infection control.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in South Carolina
| Detail | South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | South Carolina Board of Dentistry |
| 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 (e.g., CRDTS, ADEX, SRTA, CITA), and the South Carolina Jurisprudence Exam |
| Application Fee | $150 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 14.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | CPR certification is required and must be renewed every two years. Two of the 14 CE hours must be in sterilization and infection control. No more than 50% of CE hours can be earned through online computer seminars (interactive webinars are considered live). Applicants must be of good moral character. A background check and drug screening are required for program admission. Renewal is by December 31 of odd-numbered years. |
Dental Hygienist Salary in South Carolina
The median dental hygienist salary in South Carolina is $81,710 per year, which is 13.3% below the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $63,950 |
| 25th | $77,420 |
| 50th (median) | $81,710 |
| 75th | $91,810 |
| 90th (experienced) | $94,810 |
South Carolina employs approximately 3,200 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in South Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Carolina's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.