How to Become a Dental Hygienist in North Carolina: A Complete Guide

Looking to start a rewarding career in dental hygiene in the Tar Heel State? North Carolina offers excellent opportunities for dental hygienists across its diverse urban and rural communities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of becoming a licensed dental hygienist in North Carolina.

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
• Communication Studies

Step 2: Earn Your Degree

North Carolina offers several accredited dental hygiene programs:

• UNC Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry
• Central Piedmont Community College
• Wake Technical Community College
• Forsyth Technical Community College
• Guilford Technical Community College
• Cape Fear Community College

Programs typically offer:

• Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
• Bachelor of Science (BS) at select institutions
• 2-4 years completion time
• Extensive 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
• Covers clinical practice principles
• Required for NC licensure

Step 4: Clinical Examination

Complete one of these regional clinical examinations:

• Council of Interstate Testing Agencies (CITA)
• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
• Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA)

Step 5: North Carolina State Licensure

Submit to the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners:

• Completed application
• Official transcripts
• National Board scores
• Clinical examination results
• Criminal background check
• CPR certification
• Required fees
• NC jurisprudence exam results

Additional Requirements

North Carolina Specific Requirements

• Complete NC jurisprudence examination
• Obtain CPR certification
• Complete infection control training
• Maintain liability insurance
• Complete local anesthesia certification (if applicable)

Continuing Education

To maintain licensure:

• Complete 6 hours of continuing education annually
• Include specific coursework in:
• Infection control
• CPR renewal
• OSHA requirements
• Clinical updates

Career Opportunities

Work Settings

North Carolina dental hygienists can work in:

• Private dental practices
• Group dental practices
• Community health centers
• Public health departments
• Educational institutions
• Research facilities
• Corporate dental offices
• Military bases

Salary and Benefits

As of 2024, North Carolina dental hygienists can expect:

• Average annual salary: $65,000 – $85,000
• Higher wages in urban areas
• Benefits often include:
• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Professional development
• Dental coverage

Professional Development

Career Advancement

Opportunities include:

• Advanced degree programs
• Teaching positions
• Research roles
• Public health administration
• Clinical education
• Practice management
• Corporate leadership

Professional Organizations

Join these associations:

• North Carolina Dental Hygienists’ Association
• American Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Local dental study clubs
• Regional dental societies

Regional Considerations

Urban Practice

• Research Triangle opportunities
• Charlotte metro area demand
• Higher average salaries
• Multiple practice settings
• Professional networking

Rural Practice

• Community health focus
• Loan repayment programs
• Work-life balance
• Strong patient relationships
• Service opportunities

Success Strategies

1. During Education

• Maintain academic excellence
• Build clinical skills
• Develop patient rapport
• Join student organizations
• Seek mentorship

1. Starting Your Career

• Research practice locations
• Consider multiple settings
• Build professional network
• Develop interview skills
• Create strong resume

1. Long-term Success

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

Resources and Contacts

Educational Programs

UNC Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry

• Location: Chapel Hill
• Program: BS in Dental Hygiene

Central Piedmont Community College

• Location: Charlotte
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

Wake Technical Community College

• Location: Raleigh
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

Regulatory Bodies

• North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners
• North Carolina Dental Society
• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

Special Considerations

Geographic Diversity

• Urban vs. rural opportunities
• Regional salary variations
• Practice setting differences
• Community needs assessment
• Population demographics

Military Connections

• Base dental clinics
• Veteran services
• Military spouse opportunities
• Federal employment options

Tips for Success

1. Educational Excellence

• Focus on clinical skills
• Build communication abilities
• Develop time management
• Practice professionalism

1. Career Launch

• Research market demands
• Consider location preferences
• Evaluate practice cultures
• Review compensation packages

1. Professional Growth

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

Conclusion

Becoming a dental hygienist in North Carolina offers excellent career prospects with opportunities for professional growth and community impact. The state’s combination of urban centers and rural communities provides diverse practice options for every career goal.

For the most current information, contact:

• North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners
• Your chosen educational institution
• North Carolina Dental Hygienists’ Association

Note: Requirements and salary information may change. Always verify current requirements with the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners.