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

Looking to start a career in dental hygiene in the Silver State? Nevada offers excellent opportunities for dental hygienists, with particularly strong demand in Las Vegas, Reno, and other growing urban areas. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a licensed dental hygienist in Nevada.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Prerequisites

Before entering a dental hygiene program, complete these prerequisite courses:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Psychology
• College Mathematics
• Public Speaking

Step 2: Complete an Accredited Program

Nevada offers two primary options for dental hygiene education:

• College of Southern Nevada (Las Vegas)
• Truckee Meadows Community College (Reno)

Both programs typically:

• Take 2-3 years to complete
• Lead to an Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree
• Include classroom, laboratory, and clinical experience

Licensing Requirements

Step 3: National Board Examination

Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE):

• Computer-based examination
• Tests dental hygiene knowledge and theory
• Covers basic sciences and clinical dental hygiene
• Required for licensure in Nevada

Step 4: Clinical Examination

Complete one of these regional clinical examinations:

• Western Regional Examining Board (WREB)
• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)

Clinical exam components include:

• Patient assessment
• Scaling and root planing
• Soft tissue management
• Infection control
• Local anesthesia administration

Step 5: Nevada State Licensure

Submit application to the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners including:

• Completed application form
• Official transcripts
• National Board scores
• Clinical examination results
• FBI background check
• Current CPR certification
• Required fees
• Proof of completion of Nevada jurisprudence examination

Additional Requirements

Nevada-Specific Requirements

• Complete Nevada jurisprudence examination
• Obtain Nevada State Board of Pharmacy license for administering local anesthesia
• Complete infection control course
• Maintain current CPR certification

Continuing Education

To maintain licensure:

• Complete 30 continuing education hours every two years
• Include specific coursework in:
• Infection control
• CPR renewal
• Medical emergencies
• Local anesthesia (if applicable)

Career Opportunities

Work Settings

Nevada dental hygienists can work in:

• Private dental practices
• Public health clinics
• Educational institutions
• Corporate dental offices
• Mobile dental units
• School-based programs

Salary and Benefits

As of 2024, Nevada dental hygienists can expect:

• Average annual salary: $75,000 – $95,000 (higher in urban areas)
• Benefits often include:
• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Continuing education allowances
• Professional liability insurance

Professional Development

Career Advancement

Opportunities include:

• Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree
• Specializing in public health
• Teaching in dental hygiene programs
• Working in dental sales or consulting
• Starting a mobile dental hygiene business

Professional Organizations

Join these organizations:

• Nevada Dental Hygienists’ Association
• American Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Local dental study clubs

Tips for Success

1. During Education

• Maintain high academic standards
• Develop strong clinical skills
• Build professional relationships
• Consider part-time dental assisting work

1. Starting Your Career

• Network with local dental professionals
• Join professional associations
• Consider temporary positions to gain experience
• Keep detailed records of continuing education

1. Long-term Success

• Stay current with technology
• Develop business skills
• Consider specialization
• Maintain work-life balance

Special Considerations for Nevada

Desert Climate Impact

• Understand oral health implications of dry climate
• Learn about water conservation in dental practice
• Be prepared for patients with desert-related oral conditions

Tourism Industry

• Prepare for diverse patient populations
• Consider learning multiple languages
• Understand cultural competency in dental care

Resources and Contacts

Educational Programs

• College of Southern Nevada
• Location: Las Vegas
• Program: Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene
• Truckee Meadows Community College
• Location: Reno
• Program: Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene

Regulatory Bodies

• Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners
• Nevada State Board of Pharmacy
• Nevada Dental Hygienists’ Association

Conclusion

Becoming a dental hygienist in Nevada offers a rewarding career path with excellent employment prospects and competitive compensation. While the process requires dedication and hard work, the result is a stable career in healthcare with opportunities for growth and specialization.

For the most current information, contact:

• Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners
• Your chosen educational institution
• Nevada Dental Hygienists’ Association

Note: Requirements and salary information may change. Always verify current requirements with the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners.