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

Interested in pursuing a career as a dental hygienist in the Prairie State? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of becoming a licensed dental hygienist in Illinois, from educational requirements to career opportunities.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites

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

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

Step 2: Choose an Accredited Program

Illinois offers several Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) accredited programs:

• Prairie State College (Chicago Heights)
• William Rainey Harper College (Palatine)
• College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn)
• Kennedy-King College (Chicago)
• Lewis and Clark Community College (Godfrey)
• Lake Land College (Mattoon)
• Illinois Central College (East Peoria)
• Southern Illinois University (Carbondale)
• Parkland College (Champaign)

Most programs offer:

• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree (2-3 years)
• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree options available at some institutions

Licensing Requirements

Step 1: National Board Examination

Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), covering:

• Scientific basis for dental hygiene practice
• Clinical dental hygiene services
• Community health/research principles

Step 2: Clinical Examination

Complete one of these regional clinical examinations accepted by Illinois:

• CDCA-WREB-ADEX examination
• CRDTS (Central Regional Dental Testing Service)

Step 3: Illinois-Specific Requirements

• Complete Illinois jurisprudence examination
• Submit to fingerprint criminal background check
• Provide proof of CPR certification
• Submit official transcripts
• Pay application fees to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation

Maintaining Your License

Illinois dental hygienists must:

• Complete 36 hours of continuing education every three years
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Renew license every three years
• Pay renewal fees
• Complete mandatory sexual harassment prevention training

Career Opportunities

Salary Expectations

As of 2024, dental hygienists in Illinois can expect:

• Entry-level: $60,000-$70,000
• Mid-career: $70,000-$85,000
• Experienced: $85,000-$100,000+

*Note: Salaries vary significantly between Chicago metropolitan area and rural regions

Work Settings

• Private dental practices
• Group dental practices
• Public health clinics
• Educational institutions
• Corporate dental chains
• Research facilities
• Mobile dental units

Illinois-Specific Practice Considerations

Metropolitan vs. Rural Practice

Chicago Metropolitan Area:

• Higher salaries
• More job opportunities
• Greater competition
• Higher cost of living
• Diverse patient population

Rural Areas:

• Lower cost of living
• Less competition
• Community-focused practice
• Potential loan repayment programs
• Greater need for dental professionals

Public Health Initiatives

• School-based sealant programs
• Community health centers
• Mobile dental clinics
• Veterans’ health facilities
• Special needs programs

Tips for Success

1. Professional Networking

• Join the Illinois Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Attend Chicago Dental Society events
• Participate in local study clubs
• Connect with program alumni
• Build relationships with dental suppliers

1. Career Development

• Pursue specialty certifications
• Attend continuing education courses
• Consider teaching opportunities
• Explore research positions
• Develop business skills

1. Essential Skills

• Clinical expertise
• Patient communication
• Technology proficiency
• Time management
• Cultural competency
• Spanish language skills (beneficial)

Time and Financial Investment

Timeline

• Prerequisites: 1 year
• Dental Hygiene Program: 2-3 years
• Licensing process: 3-6 months
  Total: 3.5-4.5 years

Approximate Costs

• Educational program: $18,000-$45,000
• Books and supplies: $2,500-$4,500
• Licensing fees: $600-$900
• Continuing education: $250-$500 annually

Professional Development

Advanced Opportunities

• Local anesthesia certification
• Nitrous oxide monitoring
• Public health supervision
• Educational roles
• Research positions
• Practice management

Continuing Education Focus

• New dental technologies
• Infection control protocols
• Patient care techniques
• Practice management
• Public health initiatives

Work-Life Balance

Employment Options

• Full-time positions
• Part-time opportunities
• Temporary assignments
• Multiple office practice
• Academic positions

Schedule Flexibility

• Traditional weekday hours
• Evening/weekend options
• Split schedules
• Per diem work
• Seasonal positions

Chicago Metropolitan Considerations

Unique Aspects

• Diverse patient populations
• Higher earning potential
• Extensive networking opportunities
• Advanced technology access
• Competitive job market

Transportation

• Public transit accessibility
• Parking considerations
• Multiple office logistics
• Weather impacts
• Traffic planning

Final Thoughts

Becoming a dental hygienist in Illinois offers diverse opportunities, particularly in the Chicago metropolitan area. The state’s robust educational infrastructure, combined with strong demand for dental professionals, creates excellent career prospects.

Success in Illinois requires not only strong clinical skills but also adaptability to serve diverse populations and navigate different practice settings. Whether you plan to practice in urban Chicago or rural Illinois, understanding these unique aspects will help you build a rewarding career.

The investment in education and licensing pays off with competitive salaries, flexible work options, and opportunities for professional growth. Illinois’s focus on continuing education ensures that dental hygienists maintain high professional standards throughout their careers.

Note: Requirements and costs may vary. Always verify current information with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and your chosen educational institution.