Dental Hygienist in Utah
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for UT
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Utah
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Utah, individuals must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program. Applicants must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (such as WREB, CRDTS, ADEX, CDCA, SRTA, or CITA), and the Utah Dental and Dental Hygiene Law and Rule Examination. A criminal background check, fingerprints, and current CPR/BLS certification are also required, along with a board-approved Local Anesthesia Certification. Utah participates in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which aims to facilitate license portability among member states.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Utah
| Detail | Utah |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing - 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 (WREB, CRDTS, ADEX, CDCA, SRTA, or CITA), and the Utah Dental and Dental Hygiene Law and Rule Examination ($465) |
| Application Fee | $47 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | CPR/BLS certification is required. Renewal is by May 31 of even-numbered years. A criminal background check and fingerprints are required. Local Anesthesia Certification is required in Utah and must be obtained through a board-approved course. CPR recertification hours do not count towards CE. |
Source: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing - Dental Board
Dental Hygienist Salary in Utah
The median dental hygienist salary in Utah is $82,610 per year, which is 12.4% below the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $76,650 |
| 25th | $79,080 |
| 50th (median) | $82,610 |
| 75th | $93,490 |
| 90th (experienced) | $97,370 |
Utah employs approximately 3,940 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Utah Worth It?
Factors to consider: Utah's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.