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

Looking to start a rewarding career as a dental hygienist in the Buckeye State? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps required to join this growing healthcare profession in Ohio.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites (1-2 years)

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

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

Step 2: Earn Your Degree (2-3 years)

Ohio requires graduation from a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Several Ohio schools offer accredited programs:

• Cuyahoga Community College
• Columbus State Community College
• Sinclair Community College
• Youngstown State University
• The Ohio State University
• University of Cincinnati

Programs typically include:

• Classroom lectures
• Laboratory instruction
• Supervised clinical practice
• Patient care experience

Licensing Requirements

Step 1: National Board Examination

Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations.

Step 2: Regional Clinical Examination

Successfully complete one of these accepted clinical examinations:

• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
• Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS)
• Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA)

Step 3: Ohio State Licensure

Submit an application to the Ohio State Dental Board including:

• Official transcripts
• National Board examination scores
• Regional clinical examination results
• Background check (both BCI and FBI)
• Current CPR certification
• Application fee
• Jurisprudence exam completion

Maintaining Your License

Continuing Education Requirements

• Complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years
• Maintain current CPR certification
• Renew license by December 31st of each odd-numbered year
• Complete 2 hours of CE in infection control
• Complete 2 hours of CE in ethics/jurisprudence

Career Outlook and Opportunities

Employment Settings

• Private dental practices
• Public health clinics
• School systems
• Corporate dental organizations
• Hospitals
• Research facilities

Salary Expectations

As of 2024, dental hygienists in Ohio can expect:

• Entry-level: $55,000-$65,000/year
• Mid-career: $65,000-$80,000/year
• Experienced: $80,000-$95,000/year
• Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education allowances

Career Advancement Options

• Clinical practice specialization
• Dental hygiene education
• Public health programs
• Research
• Corporate roles
• Practice management
• Sales and consulting

Tips for Success

1. Build Professional Networks

• Join the Ohio Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Attend local dental society meetings
• Participate in professional conferences
• Connect with alumni from your program

1. Gain Early Experience

• Work or volunteer in dental offices
• Consider dental assisting while completing prerequisites
• Participate in community oral health programs

1. Develop Essential Skills

• Strong communication abilities
• Manual dexterity
• Physical stamina
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills

Local Resources

• Ohio State Dental Board: [website]
• Ohio Dental Hygienists’ Association: [website]
• Ohio Dental Association: [website]

Specialty Certifications Available in Ohio

Ohio dental hygienists can pursue additional certifications for:

• Local anesthesia administration
• Nitrous oxide administration
• Laser therapy
• Advanced periodontal procedures

Financial Aid Options

• Federal student loans
• Ohio state grants
• Dental industry scholarships
• School-specific financial aid
• Work-study programs
• Professional organization scholarships

The path to becoming a dental hygienist in Ohio requires dedication and hard work, but the result is a stable, rewarding career with excellent growth potential. With strong job demand and competitive compensation, dental hygiene continues to be an attractive career choice in Ohio’s healthcare sector.