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

Washington State offers exceptional opportunities for dental hygienists, with average salaries ranging from $75,000 to $100,000 annually. The state is known for its progressive dental hygiene laws and expanded scope of practice, making it an attractive destination for aspiring dental professionals. Here’s your comprehensive guide to starting your career in the Evergreen State.

Educational Requirements

1. Prerequisites (1-2 years)

• High school diploma or GED
• College prerequisite courses:
• General Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Biology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Speech Communication
• Nutrition

2. Dental Hygiene Programs

• CODA-accredited programs in Washington:
• Eastern Washington University
• Lake Washington Institute of Technology
• Pierce College
• Clark College
• Shoreline Community College
• Seattle Central College
• Columbia Basin College
• Yakima Valley College

Washington State Licensing Requirements

1. National Requirements

• Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
• Complete regional clinical examination:
• Western Regional Examining Board (WREB)
• Other accepted regional exams

2. Washington Specific Requirements

• Submit application to Washington State Department of Health
• Complete Washington State Jurisprudence Exam
• Obtain HIV/AIDS training certification
• Pass criminal background check
• Provide proof of malpractice insurance
• Complete Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Unique Washington Practice Features

Expanded Function Allowances

• Independent practice opportunities
• Limited prescriptive authority
• Local anesthesia administration
• Nitrous oxide administration
• Off-site practice settings
• Direct access to patients

Limited License Options

• Limited teaching license
• Limited research license
• Limited volunteer license
• Temporary practice permits

Continuing Education Requirements

Biennial Requirements

• 15 hours annually (30 hours per two-year cycle)
• Must include:
• BLS certification
• Blood-borne pathogens training
• Medical emergencies
• Cultural competency

Approved CE Sources

• Dental/dental hygiene associations
• Accredited dental education programs
• Government health institutions
• Recognized dental study clubs
• Online courses (limited percentage)

Career Opportunities

Traditional Settings

• Private dental practices
• Group practices
• Specialty offices
• Public health clinics

Alternative Practice Settings

• Independent dental hygiene practices
• Mobile dental clinics
• School-based programs
• Long-term care facilities
• Corporate health organizations
• Indian Health Services

Regional Practice Considerations

Western Washington

• Higher population density
• Competitive salaries
• Greater job availability
• Higher cost of living

Eastern Washington

• Rural health opportunities
• Loan repayment programs
• Lower cost of living
• Community health focus

Seattle Metropolitan Area

• Highest salary potential
• Innovative practice models
• Technology integration
• Competitive job market

Professional Development

State Organizations

• Washington State Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Washington State Dental Association
• Local component societies
• Study clubs

Advanced Opportunities

• Master’s degree programs
• Teaching positions
• Research opportunities
• Public health programs
• Corporate leadership roles

Washington Practice Laws

Direct Access

• Can practice without dentist supervision
• Must have written agreement
• Can bill insurance directly
• Can own dental hygiene practice

Scope of Practice Includes

• Periodontal assessment
• Scaling and root planing
• Local anesthetic administration
• Nitrous oxide monitoring
• Sealant application
• Fluoride treatments
• Oral health education
• Screening and assessment

Tips for Success

1. Education Strategy

• Research program acceptance rates
• Consider program locations
• Evaluate clinical requirements
• Look for advanced function training

1. Career Planning

• Network during school
• Join professional associations
• Consider rural practice incentives
• Explore specialty areas

1. Licensing Preparation

• Start NBDHE preparation early
• Practice for clinical exams
• Organize required documentation
• Plan for application timing

Timeline and Costs

Educational Timeline

• Prerequisites: 1-2 years
• Dental Hygiene Program: 2-3 years
• Licensing Process: 2-4 months
• Total: 3-5 years

Approximate Costs

• Prerequisites: $8,000-$15,000
• Dental Hygiene Program: $35,000-$65,000
• Licensing and Exams: $2,500-$3,500
• Insurance and Certifications: $1,500-$2,500

Employment Outlook

Job Market Trends

• Growing demand statewide
• Expanding scope of practice
• Increasing independent practice
• Technology integration

Salary Considerations

• Regional variations
• Practice setting differences
• Experience-based increases
• Benefits packages
• Independent practice potential

Technology Integration

Digital Dentistry

• Digital radiography
• Intraoral cameras
• Electronic health records
• Teledentistry platforms
• Practice management software

Emerging Technologies

• Laser certification opportunities
• CAD/CAM exposure
• 3D imaging
• Air polishing systems

Conclusion

Washington State offers one of the most progressive environments for dental hygienists in the United States. With its expanded scope of practice, independent practice opportunities, and strong professional support system, it’s an excellent state to build your dental hygiene career. Whether you choose to practice in urban Seattle, rural Eastern Washington, or anywhere in between, you’ll find abundant opportunities for professional growth and development.

Remember to stay current with the Washington State Department of Health regulations and requirements, as these may evolve. With proper preparation and dedication to continuing education, you can build a rewarding career in dental hygiene across the Evergreen State.