Dental Hygienist Salary and Job Market Outlook in Idaho

What is the average salary for Dental Hygienists in Idaho?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Idaho was $72,850 as of May 2020.

Are there variations in Dental Hygienist salaries based on geographic regions in Idaho?

Yes, there are variations in Dental Hygienist salaries based on geographic regions in Idaho. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for dental hygienists in Idaho was $66,050 in 2019. However, salaries vary depending on the region and other factors like experience and credentials. For example, dental hygienists in the Boise City metropolitan area earned an average annual salary of $69,400 in 2019 while those in the Coeur d’Alene area had a mean annual wage of $62,200.

What factors, such as experience or specialization, can impact Dental Hygienist salary in Idaho?

1. Years of experience: The more years of experience a Dental Hygienist has, the higher their salary can be.

2. Type of practice: Different types of practices, such as general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, or orthodontics, can have varying pay scales.

3. Level of specialization: Specialized dental hygienists who have obtained additional certifications or degrees can often command a higher salary than general dental hygienists.

4. Location: Location can also impact salary, with larger cities often offering higher salaries than rural areas.

5. Employer: Different employers may offer different pay scales for the same position.

What benefits, such as healthcare, retirement, or tuition assistance, are typically offered to Dental Hygienists in Idaho?

Healthcare: Most employers in Idaho provide health insurance benefits for their dental hygienists. These include medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Retirement: Retirement plans are typically offered to dental hygienists in Idaho. Some employers may offer 401(k) plans, while others may offer 403(b) plans or other retirement savings options.

Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer tuition assistance programs to help dental hygienists in Idaho cover the cost of continuing education or advanced degrees.

Are there opportunities for salary growth and advancement for Dental Hygienists in Idaho?

Yes, there are opportunities for salary growth and advancement for Dental Hygienists in Idaho. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Dental Hygienists in Idaho was $63,130 in May 2019, which is higher than the national average of $76,220. Additionally, the top-paid 10% of Dental Hygienists in Idaho earned more than $81,780 annually. Additionally, there are various opportunities for advancement within the field. Dental Hygienists may specialize in areas such as geriatric care, research, anesthesia administration, or public health. Additionally, some states allow hygienists to provide services independently with minimal supervision from a dentist. Those with advanced degrees and certifications may also be able to pursue higher-level roles such as program directors or faculty members at dental hygiene schools.

How do Dental Hygienist salaries compare to the national average for dental hygienists in Idaho?

The average salary for a dental hygienist in Idaho is $59,110 which is 6% higher than the national average of $55,500.

Is there a demand for Dental Hygienists, and how does the job market outlook look for Dental Hygienists in Idaho?

Yes, there is a demand for Dental Hygienists in Idaho. The job market outlook for Dental Hygienists in Idaho is very good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of employed Dental Hygienists in the state of Idaho increased by 11.7% from 2014 to 2019 and is projected to grow by 14.2% from 2019 to 2029, significantly higher than the average job growth rate of 4.0% for all occupations in the US.

Are there specific dental care settings, such as private practices, dental clinics, or public health facilities, that have a higher demand for Dental Hygienists in Idaho?

In Idaho, private dental practices tend to have the highest demand for Dental Hygienists. Private practices typically provide a variety of services, such as preventive oral health care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic procedures. Dental clinics may also be in high demand for Dental Hygienists as they often provide services to those in underserved communities. Lastly, public health facilities may also be in need of Dental Hygienists to provide care to members of the community who do not have access to private dental practices.

Is there a demand for bilingual or multilingual Dental Hygienists in dental care settings that serve diverse communities in Idaho?

It is unknown whether there is a specific demand for bilingual or multilingual Dental Hygienists in Idaho, as this can vary from community to community. Generally speaking, however, increasing numbers of dental care settings in Idaho are serving diverse communities and many of these settings are likely to benefit from having staff who are multilingual.

What is the employment growth rate for Dental Hygienists, and are there expected shortages in the dental care workforce in Idaho?

The employment growth rate for Dental Hygienists in Idaho is projected to be 11.5 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations in the state. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that there will be an expected shortage of Dental Hygienists in Idaho in the coming years due to an aging population and an increased demand for preventive dental services.

What are the employment benefits and opportunities for career advancement in dental care facilities for Dental Hygienists in Idaho?



The employment benefits and opportunities for career advancement for Dental Hygienists in Idaho vary by employer, but in general, most Dental Hygienists in Idaho receive a competitive salary, health insurance, discounts on dental services, and paid vacation. In addition to these standard benefits, many employers also offer additional perks such as bonuses, 401(k) contributions, flexible scheduling, continuing education and professional development opportunities, and mentorship programs. Career advancement opportunities are also available in many facilities, such as the potential to move into a management or administrative role or to specialize in a specific area of dental hygiene.

Do Dental Hygienists with specialized certifications or advanced practice roles have increased job opportunities and earning potential in Idaho?

Yes, dental hygienists with specialized certifications or advanced practice roles have increased job opportunities and earning potential in Idaho. Advanced practice roles generally require additional education and training, which may lead to higher salaries. Additionally, job opportunities may be more available for those with specialized certifications, such as those related to sedation or implant dentures, since these professionals typically have more specialized skills than general dental hygienists.

Are there opportunities for immigrants, including those with language skills, to find employment in dental care facilities in Idaho?

Yes, there are opportunities for immigrants to find employment in dental care facilities in Idaho. Idaho offers a range of employment options for immigrants with language skills, including positions in dental care. Immigrants may find work as dental assistants, hygienists, lab technicians, administrative staff, and other roles in dental offices. Additionally, many dentists in Idaho are open to hiring bilingual employees who can speak both English and Spanish.

What are the typical work schedules for Dental Hygienists, and do they include options for part-time or flexible hours in Idaho?

Most dental hygienists in Idaho work full-time schedules, usually five days a week. Generally, they work between 30 and 40 hours each week. However, part-time and flexible hours may be available depending on the employer’s needs. Some dental hygienists may be able to work four days a week or may have the option of evening or weekend hours to accommodate their schedules.

Are there resources, such as job fairs or online job portals, that can help immigrants find Dental Hygienist job opportunities in Idaho?

Yes, there are resources available for immigrants looking for Dental Hygienist job opportunities in Idaho. The Idaho Dental Association (IDA) offers job postings on their website, and they hold an annual job fair in Boise. Additionally, CareerBuilder, Indeed, and Glassdoor are popular online job portals that can help immigrants find Dental Hygienist job opportunities in Idaho.

What are the options for continuing education and professional development for Dental Hygienists to enhance their careers in Idaho?

1. The Idaho State Board of Dentistry offers dental hygiene continuing education courses through approved providers in the state. These courses cover topics such as infection control, oral health promotion, pharmacology, and dental materials.

2. The Idaho Dental Hygienists’ Association (IDHA) also offers continuing education opportunities for dental hygienists. IDHA holds an annual meeting in Boise every fall, which features educational sessions on a variety of topics pertaining to dental hygiene.

3. The Academy of Dental Learning and OSHA Training (ADLOTS) offers online dental hygiene continuing education courses. These courses cover topics such as prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, patient safety, nutrition, and legal issues for dental hygienists.

4. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) also provides continuing education opportunities for dental hygienists. ADHA offers both online and in-person courses on a variety of topics pertaining to dental hygiene.

5. The Community College of Idaho provides a Dental Hygiene Program that is accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. This program offers a variety of courses in both theory and clinical practice that will help enhance the skills and knowledge of the dental hygienist.

6. The University of Idaho also offers a Dental Hygiene Program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Through this program students can earn either an AAS or BS in Dental Hygiene, which will provide them with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to excel in their field.

Are there specific job search strategies and resources for immigrants, including those with unique language or cultural considerations, seeking Dental Hygienist positions in Idaho?

Yes, there are job search strategies and resources for immigrants seeking Dental Hygienist positions in Idaho. Job seekers should start by exploring online job boards like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor. Job seekers should also check with the Idaho State Department of Labor and Idaho Dental Association for any available resources. Additionally, job seekers should contact local community organizations and language centers that provide services to immigrants for any other resources or assistance that may be available. Job seekers should also consider networking and using social media platforms like LinkedIn to make connections and reach out to potential employers. It is also important for job seekers to have a resume and cover letter that are tailored to the position they are applying for and clearly articulates their qualifications in the language the employer is familiar with. Finally, job seekers should research the cultural expectations they may encounter in the workplace so they can be prepared.

How can immigrants with Dental Hygienist qualifications ensure that their credentials align with the state’s licensing and employment requirements in Idaho?

Immigrants with Dental Hygienist qualifications should contact the Idaho State Board of Dentistry for a list of requirements for licensure. They should also contact local employers to learn more about what qualifications are necessary to work in the field. Depending on their immigration status, they may need to apply for a work permit or visa, as well as take any necessary language tests or English classes. Additionally, they should make sure their credentials meet the requirements for the state in which they intend to practice.

Do Dental Hygienists have opportunities for overtime or shift differentials that can increase their earnings in Idaho?

Yes, some Dental Hygienists may have the opportunity to receive overtime or shift differentials that can increase their earnings in Idaho. The specific terms and conditions of each individual’s employment agreement with their employer will determine the exact type and level of overtime or shift differential payments they may receive.

What are the potential legal implications or challenges immigrants may face when pursuing Dental Hygienist careers, especially in the context of immigration status, in Idaho?

The most common legal challenge that immigrants may face when pursuing a career as a dental hygienist in Idaho is that they may need to be licensed in order to practice, and the licensing process requires legal authorization to work in the United States. Immigrants who are not legal permanent residents or do not have a valid work visa may not be eligible for licensing and therefore could not practice as a dental hygienist in Idaho. Additionally, any immigrants who are in the country unlawfully can face deportation if they are caught working without legal authorization.

Immigrants may also face challenges obtaining educational opportunities or finding employers willing to hire them due to their immigration status. While the Idaho State Board of Dentistry does not require a Social Security Number for licensure, some educational programs and employers may require the information in order to make admissions and hiring decisions.

Finally, immigrants may find that their ability to obtain a job as a dental hygienist is limited due to language barriers. Many employers prefer that employees have a good command of the English language, so those who do not speak it fluently may have difficulty finding work.