How to Become a Dental Hygienist in New Mexico: A Complete Guide

Are you interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene in the Land of Enchantment? New Mexico offers unique opportunities for dental hygienists, with growing demand in both urban and rural communities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to become a licensed dental hygienist in New Mexico.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites

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

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Psychology
• Mathematics
• Social Sciences

Step 2: Earn Your Degree

New Mexico offers accredited dental hygiene programs at:

• San Juan College (Farmington)
• University of New Mexico (Albuquerque)
• Eastern New Mexico University (Roswell)

Programs typically include:

• 2-3 years of study
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree option
• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree option
• Clinical experience
• Laboratory training
• Community health rotations

Licensing Requirements

Step 3: National Board Examination

Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE):

• Computer-based comprehensive exam
• Tests dental hygiene theory and knowledge
• Covers clinical practice principles
• Required for New Mexico licensure

Step 4: Clinical Examination

Complete one of these regional clinical examinations:

• Western Regional Examining Board (WREB)
• Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS)

Step 5: New Mexico State Licensure

Submit to the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care:

• Completed application
• Official transcripts
• National Board scores
• Clinical examination results
• Background check
• CPR certification
• Required fees
• Jurisprudence examination results

Additional Requirements

New Mexico Specific Requirements

• Complete New Mexico jurisprudence examination
• Obtain local anesthesia certification
• Complete infection control training
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Complete cultural competency training

Continuing Education

To maintain licensure:

• Complete 30 continuing education hours every three years
• Include specific coursework in:
• Infection control
• Medical emergencies
• Cultural competency
• Local anesthesia (if applicable)

Career Opportunities

Work Settings

New Mexico dental hygienists can work in:

• Private dental practices
• Community health centers
• Indian Health Service facilities
• Public health clinics
• Educational institutions
• Mobile dental units
• Rural health clinics

Salary and Benefits

As of 2024, New Mexico dental hygienists can expect:

• Average annual salary: $65,000 – $80,000
• Higher wages in urban areas
• Benefits often include:
• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Professional development
• Loan repayment programs (in rural areas)

Professional Development

Career Advancement

Opportunities include:

• Advanced degree programs
• Teaching positions
• Public health roles
• Research opportunities
• Clinical education
• Practice management
• Rural health initiatives

Professional Organizations

Join these associations:

• New Mexico Dental Hygienists’ Association
• American Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Hispanic Dental Association
• Local dental study clubs

Cultural Considerations

Diverse Population Service

• Understanding multicultural healthcare needs
• Spanish language skills valuable
• Native American health considerations
• Rural healthcare dynamics

Geographic Considerations

• Rural practice opportunities
• Travel healthcare positions
• Mobile dental services
• Tribal health programs

Success Strategies

1. During Education

• Focus on clinical skills
• Develop cultural competency
• Learn Spanish language basics
• Build professional networks

1. Career Launch

• Consider rural opportunities
• Explore loan repayment programs
• Join professional associations
• Build mentorship relationships

1. Long-term Success

• Pursue continuing education
• Develop leadership skills
• Consider specialization
• Maintain work-life balance

Resources and Contacts

Educational Programs

San Juan College

• Location: Farmington
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

University of New Mexico

• Location: Albuquerque
• Program: BS in Dental Hygiene

Eastern New Mexico University

• Location: Roswell
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

Regulatory Bodies

• New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
• New Mexico Dental Association
• New Mexico Department of Health

Special Considerations

Rural Health Focus

• Understanding rural healthcare needs
• Travel requirements
• Community outreach programs
• Public health initiatives

Cultural Competency

• Multicultural patient care
• Traditional healing practices
• Language considerations
• Community engagement

Tips for Success

1. Educational Preparation

• Research program requirements
• Maintain strong academics
• Gain clinical experience
• Develop communication skills

1. Starting Your Career

• Consider location preferences
• Evaluate practice settings
• Understand rural opportunities
• Review loan repayment options

1. Professional Growth

• Stay current with technology
• Build patient relationships
• Engage in community service
• Pursue leadership roles

Conclusion

Becoming a dental hygienist in New Mexico offers unique opportunities to serve diverse communities while building a rewarding healthcare career. The state’s combination of urban and rural practices, cultural diversity, and growing healthcare needs creates excellent prospects for dental hygienists.

For the most current information, contact:

• New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
• Your chosen educational institution
• New Mexico Dental Hygienists’ Association

Note: Requirements and salary information may change. Always verify current requirements with the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.