How Long Does It Take To Become a Dental Hygienist in Colorado?

Becoming a dental hygienist is a rewarding career choice for those interested in oral health and providing care to patients. However, one of the common questions aspiring dental hygienists in Colorado often ask is, “How long does it take to become a dental hygienist in Colorado?” The time frame depends on the level of education and training you pursue, as well as any certification requirements specific to the state of Colorado. Below, we’ll break down the general timeline, educational requirements, and steps to help you understand what it takes to become a dental hygienist in Colorado.

Educational Requirements

To work as a licensed dental hygienist in Colorado, you need to complete an accredited dental hygiene program and earn a degree. The most common path is through an associate degree, although there are options for bachelor’s degrees as well. Here’s a closer look at both:

1. Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene

This is the fastest and most common route. Completing an associate degree in dental hygiene typically takes about 2–3 years of full-time study. These programs are offered at community colleges and technical schools. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical training in subjects such as anatomy, oral pathology, radiology, and patient care.

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene

Those opting for a bachelor’s degree usually study for about 4 years. A bachelor’s program offers a more in-depth curriculum and additional coursework in areas like public health, research methods, and healthcare management. While not required for entry-level positions, a bachelor’s degree can open doors to research, teaching, or leadership roles in the field.

Many aspiring dental hygienists in Colorado choose the associate degree route to enter the workforce faster. However, students who want a broader range of career opportunities and potentially higher earning potential may invest the additional time in a bachelor’s degree program.

Licensing Requirements in Colorado

Regardless of which degree you pursue, you must meet Colorado’s licensing requirements to work as a dental hygienist. This process involves the following steps:

1. Graduate from an Accredited Dental Hygiene Program

The program must be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) to ensure it meets the national standards for quality education.

2. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)

This written exam tests your theoretical knowledge and is an essential step in becoming licensed. It’s usually taken near the end of your dental hygiene program.

3. Pass a Clinical Board Examination

The Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) is one of the most common clinical exams used to test your practical skills. It typically takes one or two days to complete and evaluates your ability to perform dental hygiene procedures in a hands-on setting.

4. Obtain CPR Certification

Most licensing boards, including Colorado, require you to hold a current CPR certification.

5. Apply for Licensure Through the Colorado Dental Board

After passing both the national and clinical exams, you can submit your application to Colorado’s Dental Board to become a licensed dental hygienist. The processing time for licensure applications may take several weeks.

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

Taking all factors into consideration, here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:

• Education (2–4 years)

Completing your degree will take anywhere between 2 and 4 years, depending on whether you choose an associate or bachelor’s program. Keep in mind that finding a program close to your desired location in Colorado may add some additional research and preparation time.

• Exam Preparation and Licensing (3–6 months)

After earning your degree, you’ll spend a few months preparing for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and completing the clinical exam. You’ll also need to apply for licensure, which can take several weeks to process.

Overall, the time it takes to become a licensed dental hygienist in Colorado ranges from 2.5 to 4.5 years, depending on your educational path and how quickly you can complete the licensing requirements.

Additional Considerations

It’s important to remember that some aspiring dental hygienists may take additional time if they choose to work part-time while in school or if they encounter delays with state licensing processes. Additionally, Colorado offers flexibility in terms of work environments, giving dental hygienists the opportunity to work at private dental offices, community clinics, schools, or public health organizations.

Industry growth also makes dental hygiene an attractive career in Colorado. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dental hygienists is expected to grow faster than the average for all professions, making it a stable and promising field for those entering the workforce.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering becoming a dental hygienist in Colorado, understanding the time commitment involved is an essential part of your decision-making process. Most people complete the entire process in about 3 years with an associate degree or 4+ years with a bachelor’s degree. While the path requires dedication and effort, the result is a fulfilling career helping others achieve and maintain good oral health. Plus, with the growing industry demand, there’s never been a better time to pursue this career in Colorado.