How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Montana: A Complete Guide

Are you interested in pursuing a rewarding career in dental hygiene in Big Sky Country? Montana offers excellent opportunities for dental hygienists, with competitive salaries and a growing demand for oral healthcare professionals. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a licensed dental hygienist in Montana.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites

Before entering a dental hygiene program, you’ll need to complete prerequisite courses, typically including:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Psychology
• Mathematics

Step 2: Earn Your Degree

You must complete an accredited dental hygiene program. In Montana, Great Falls College MSU offers the only dental hygiene program in the state. The program takes approximately two years to complete after prerequisites and results in an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Dental Hygiene.

Licensing Requirements

Step 3: Pass National Board Examination

You must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. This comprehensive written exam tests your knowledge of:

• Scientific basis for dental hygiene practice
• Provision of clinical dental hygiene services
• Community health and research principles

Step 4: Complete Clinical Examination

Montana requires passing one of the following clinical examinations:

• Western Regional Examining Board (WREB)
• Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS)
• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)

Step 5: Apply for State Licensure

Submit an application to the Montana Board of Dentistry, including:

• Official transcripts from your dental hygiene program
• National Board examination scores
• Clinical examination results
• Background check
• Current CPR certification
• Required fees

Additional Requirements

Continuing Education

To maintain your license in Montana, you must complete:

• 36 continuing education credits every three years
• Current CPR certification
• Annual license renewal

Career Outlook

Employment Opportunities

Montana dental hygienists can work in various settings:

• Private dental practices
• Public health clinics
• Educational institutions
• Corporate settings

Salary Expectations

As of 2024, dental hygienists in Montana can expect:

• Average annual salary: $70,000 – $85,000
• Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off
• Higher earnings potential with experience and additional certifications

Professional Development

Advanced Opportunities

Further your career by:

• Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree
• Obtaining special certifications
• Joining professional organizations like the Montana Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Participating in continuing education workshops and conferences

Tips for Success

1. Network Early: Connect with practicing dental hygienists and join professional organizations while still in school.
2. Gain Experience: Seek internships or assistant positions in dental offices during your education.
3. Develop Soft Skills: Focus on communication, empathy, and patient care alongside technical skills.
4. Stay Current: Keep up with the latest developments in dental hygiene through continuing education and professional journals.

Conclusion

Becoming a dental hygienist in Montana requires dedication and hard work, but the reward is a stable, well-paying career in healthcare. With proper planning and preparation, you can join the ranks of dental health professionals helping to improve oral health across the state.

For more information, contact:

• Montana Board of Dentistry
• Great Falls College MSU Dental Hygiene Program
• Montana Dental Hygienists’ Association

Note: Requirements and salary information may change. Always verify current requirements with the Montana Board of Dentistry.