Dental Hygienist Careers in Florida
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases, and educate patients on dental hygiene practices, working primarily in private dental offices. The career offers high pay relative to training time and is one of FL's better-compensated associate-level healthcare fields. FL employs over 13,400 dental hygienists.
What does a Dental Hygienist do in Florida?
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases, and educate patients on dental hygiene practices, working primarily in private dental offices. The career offers high pay relative to training time and is one of FL's better-compensated associate-level healthcare fields. FL employs over 13,400 dental hygienists.
Typical Florida work setting: Clinic.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Dental Hygienist is approximately $80,530 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $68,540, with experienced workers earning around $93,090.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 16% through the next decade — well above average compared to many other states.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Dental Hygienist in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the RDH (Registered Dental Hygienist); must pass NBDHE + CRDTS/ADEX clinical exam required to work as a Dental Hygienist. Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Dental Hygienist programs take about 2-3 years (Associate of Science). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Apply for Florida jobsFlorida employers across the state hire entry-level Dental Hygienists year-round. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support and Florida employer relationships.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: RDH (Registered Dental Hygienist); must pass NBDHE + CRDTS/ADEX clinical exam
- Typical program length: 2-3 years (Associate of Science)
- Typical tuition range: $8,000 - $18,000
Career Path
- Dental Hygienist
- Lead Hygienist
- Hygiene Coordinator/Practice Manager
- Dental Hygiene Educator
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Dental Hygiene AS
- Dental Hygiene BS
Florida Dental Hygienist FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Dental Hygienist?
Most Dental Hygienist roles in Florida do not require a state license to start, though employers often prefer candidates who have completed an accredited training program and earned a recognized credential.
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Dental Hygienist take about 2-3 years (Associate of Science). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Dental Hygienist training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $8,000 - $18,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Dental Hygienist in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Dental Hygienists is about $80,530 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Dental Hygienist in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Dental Hygienist. Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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