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

Looking to start a career as a dental hygienist in the Keystone State? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the requirements and steps to become a licensed dental hygienist in Pennsylvania.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites (1-2 years)

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

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Psychology
• Mathematics
• Speech Communication
• Sociology

Step 2: Earn Your Degree (2-3 years)

Pennsylvania requires graduation from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program. The state offers several accredited programs:

• Community College of Philadelphia
• Harrisburg Area Community College
• Harcum College
• Manor College
• Montgomery County Community College
• Northampton Community College
• Pennsylvania College of Technology
• University of Pittsburgh
• West Liberty University

Program components include:

• Classroom instruction
• Laboratory practice
• Clinical experience
• Patient care
• Radiography training
• Local anesthesia training

Licensing Requirements

Step 1: National Board Examination

Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).

Step 2: Clinical Examination

Successfully complete one of these regional clinical examinations:

• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
• Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS)
• Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA)

Step 3: Pennsylvania State Licensure

Submit an application to the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry including:

• Official transcripts
• National Board scores
• Clinical examination results
• Criminal background check
• Child abuse recognition and reporting training certificate
• Current CPR certification
• Application fee

Special Certifications

Pennsylvania offers additional certifications for:

Local Anesthesia Permit

Requirements include:

• Completion of approved course
• Clinical competency examination
• Continuing education requirements

Public Health Dental Hygiene Practitioner (PHDHP)

Requirements include:

• 3,600 hours of clinical practice
• Professional liability insurance
• Additional certification requirements
• Allows practice in public health settings without direct supervision

Maintaining Your License

Continuing Education Requirements

• Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Renew license by March 31st of odd-numbered years
• Required courses:
• Child abuse recognition and reporting
• Law and ethics
• Infection control

Career Opportunities

Work Settings

• Private dental practices
• Public health clinics
• School systems
• Corporate dental organizations
• Educational institutions
• Research facilities
• Public health settings (with PHDHP)

Salary Expectations

As of 2024, Pennsylvania dental hygienists typically earn:

• Entry-level: $60,000-$70,000/year
• Mid-career: $70,000-$85,000/year
• Experienced: $85,000-$100,000/year
• Benefits often include:
• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Continuing education allowance

Career Advancement Options

• Clinical practice specialization
• Dental hygiene education
• Public health programs
• Research
• Corporate roles
• Practice management
• Sales and consulting

Tips for Success

1. Professional Networking

• Join the Pennsylvania Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Attend state dental conferences
• Participate in local dental society meetings
• Connect with program alumni

1. Career Development

• Consider pursuing PHDHP certification
• Develop specialized skills
• Stay current with technology
• Build strong professional relationships

1. Essential Skills

• Clinical expertise
• Patient communication
• Time management
• Physical stamina
• Attention to detail
• Technology proficiency

Pennsylvania-Specific Resources

• Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry: [website]
• Pennsylvania Dental Hygienists’ Association: [website]
• Pennsylvania Dental Association: [website]

Financial Aid Options

• Pennsylvania State Grant Program
• PHEAA grants
• Federal student loans
• School-specific scholarships
• Professional organization scholarships
• Work-study programs

Regional Considerations

Pennsylvania offers diverse practice opportunities:

• Urban centers (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh)
• Suburban communities
• Rural areas
• Underserved populations

Urban Practice

• Higher patient volume
• Diverse patient population
• Competitive salary
• More job opportunities

Rural Practice

• Often higher compensation
• Loan repayment programs
• Community involvement
• Less competition

Professional Organizations

Active membership in professional organizations offers:

• Networking opportunities
• Continuing education
• Professional advocacy
• Career resources
• Leadership opportunities

The path to becoming a dental hygienist in Pennsylvania requires dedication and hard work, but offers a rewarding career with excellent growth potential. With strong job demand across the state and opportunities for advanced practice through the PHDHP certification, dental hygiene continues to be an attractive career choice in Pennsylvania’s healthcare sector.