How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Hygienist in Tennessee?

If you’re considering a rewarding career in dental hygiene and live in Tennessee, you may be wondering how long it takes to become a licensed dental hygienist in the state. Specifically, how long does it take to become a dental hygienist in Tennessee? Like most healthcare professions, pursuing dental hygiene requires a commitment to education, training, and state licensure. Below, we’ll break down the key steps involved and the time it typically takes to achieve your goal.

Educational Requirements for Dental Hygienists in Tennessee

First and foremost, becoming a dental hygienist requires formal education. Generally, this begins with completing an accredited dental hygiene program. Tennessee mandates that aspiring dental hygienists earn at least an associate degree in dental hygiene to qualify for licensure. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, colleges, or universities.

How Long Does an Associate Degree Take?

An associate degree in dental hygiene generally takes two years to complete if you are a full-time student. The program curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Courses often include subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, dental radiography, periodontology, and patient care techniques.

Can You Earn a Bachelor’s Degree?

While an associate degree is the minimum educational requirement to practice as a dental hygienist in Tennessee, some students may pursue a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene, which can take four years to complete. Earning a bachelor’s degree may provide additional career opportunities, such as leadership roles, teaching positions, or public health initiatives. However, for most entry-level dental hygienist roles in Tennessee, an associate degree is sufficient.

High School Preparation

Before enrolling in an accredited dental hygiene program, you need a high school diploma or GED. Additionally, some dental hygiene programs in Tennessee have prerequisite courses, such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy, that you might need to complete before being admitted into the program. Depending on the prerequisites required, this additional preparation may extend your timeline by six months to a year, depending on the pace at which you complete the required coursework.

Licensing Requirements

After completing an accredited dental hygiene program, the next step is obtaining a license to practice in Tennessee. Licensure involves passing two exams:

1. The National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) – This written exam assesses your theoretical knowledge of dental hygiene principles.
2. The Clinical Board Exam – Conducted by a testing agency such as the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA), this exam evaluates your practical skills by having you perform real dental hygiene procedures.

Additionally, you’ll need to pass the Jurisprudence Exam, which covers Tennessee’s specific laws and regulations regarding dental hygiene. Completing these exams and submitting your licensing application can add a few months to the timeline.

Total Time to Become a Dental Hygienist in Tennessee

To sum it up, here’s an estimate of how long it takes to become a dental hygienist in Tennessee:

1. High School Preparation – 4 years (or less if you already have a diploma or GED).
2. Prerequisite College Courses – 6 months to 1 year (if required by your program).
3. Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene – 2 years of full-time study.
4. Licensure Process (Exam + Application) – Approximately 3–6 months.

Grand Total:

3 to 4 years after high school, depending on your educational path and preparation timeline.

If you opt to pursue a bachelor’s degree, the total time might increase to 4 to 6 years. However, with an associate degree being the most common route, you can typically enter the workforce sooner.

Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist Worth the Time Investment?

The time required to become a dental hygienist in Tennessee is relatively short when compared to other healthcare professions. Once licensed, dental hygienists enjoy a rewarding career with strong job prospects, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ oral health.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental hygienists in 2022 was more than $77,000, with demand for the profession expected to grow by 9% from 2021 to 2031. This growth reflects an increasing focus on preventative dental care and a greater emphasis on oral health as part of overall well-being.

For those passionate about healthcare and patient care, dental hygiene offers an excellent balance of job stability, personal fulfillment, and career flexibility. While the educational and licensing process demands dedication, the rewards are well worth the effort.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a dental hygienist in Tennessee typically takes around three to four years, though the exact timeline will depend on your chosen educational path and personal circumstances. By carefully planning your education and meeting state licensure requirements, you can soon be on your way to a fulfilling and stable career. If you’re ready to take the first step, explore accredited dental hygiene programs in Tennessee and begin your path toward this rewarding profession today!