If you’re one of the many pre-professionals curiously wondering, “How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?” You’ve found the right place to pause.
Whether you’re exploring traditional on-campus dental hygienist programs or leaning toward an online or hybrid dental hygiene program, understanding the timeline of the typical dental hygienist program in Connecticut will help you achieve that goal.
Many prospective students are drawn to dental hygiene for its balance of strong earning potential, short education timeline, and meaningful patient care. In short, it’s a quick way to a good paycheck that provides something valuable for others. Plus, dental hygiene jobs are projected to grow 7%, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
With projected continuing growth in the field, students are increasingly looking for high-quality dental hygienist programs that allow them to enter this stable, people-focused profession quickly.
Here, we’ll break down the typical path from your first year in college to becoming a licensed Registered Dental Hygienist in Connecticut, while making sure to answer the common question: How many years does it take to become a dental hygienist?
What dental hygienists do and why the role matters
Dental hygienists play a crucial role in preventive dental care, providing services that support patients’ overall health and wellness.
On a daily basis, this looks like substantial time with patients:
- Providing screenings
- Removing plaque and tartar
- Applying preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants
- Taking and developing dental radiographs (x-rays)
- Educating individuals on proper oral health practices
Research has shown strong connections between oral health and systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes, making the hygienist’s role even more vital in comprehensive healthcare.
Patient care
Beyond the clinical procedures, dental hygienists often form the foundation of positive dental experiences for patients. Since hygienists often spend the most time with patients during appointments, many graduates find the profession rewarding due to the one-on-one interactions and relationships built over time.
Is dental hygiene for you?
The field is ideal for individuals who enjoy science, hands-on learning, teamwork, and compassionate patient communication. You’ll have the opportunity to educate families, help children develop healthy habits, and support adults in maintaining their oral health throughout their lives.
Dental hygienists work collaboratively with dentists, dental assistants, and administrative staff to create a positive patient experience.
Education pathways: How many years does it take to become a dental hygienist?
There are two types of undergraduate dental degrees in Dental Hygiene. Both the associate (AS) and bachelor’s (BS) students complete general education and science prerequisites such as anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry before diving into dental-specific coursework.
Admissions to the program vary by school, but you should generally look for GPA requirements, completion of prerequisites with a C or higher, transcripts, and recommendation letters.
Associate’s in Dental Hygiene: Fastest route into the field
An associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene is the shortest path to becoming a licensed hygienist and typically takes around three years to complete. Students also participate in community outreach and supervised clinical practice, gaining real-world experience early in their training.
Coursework includes subjects such as Oral Anatomy and Embryology, Radiology, Pharmacology, Periodontology, Dental Public Health, and Dental Materials. Clinical training begins in pre-clinic, where students practice cleanings and other care on peers before progressing to patients.
Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene: Expanded opportunities and higher earning potential
A Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene builds on the associate’s foundational curriculum and typically takes four years overall, or two additional years beyond an existing AS degree. Students can begin as Pre-Dental Hygiene majors, applying to the BS program after their first year of foundational coursework.
The BS curriculum includes: Dental Hygiene Research, Practice Management, General and Oral Histo-Pathology, Local Anesthesia, and Radiology.
Students in this program complete an internship in an alternative practice setting, gaining exposure to public health clinics, schools, specialty offices, or community programs.
Make Your Community Smile with a Degree in Dental Hygiene
Requirements for becoming a licensed dental hygienist
After completing degree requirements and passing all necessary exams, graduates apply for state licensure. For students attending a Connecticut dental school, this process typically includes submitting proof of education from an accredited program, providing exam results, completing background checks, and passing a jurisprudence exam.
Different exams to get licensed
These requirements include taking the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), which evaluates academic knowledge in scientific and dental subjects.
The Regional or State Clinical Board Examination assesses hands-on competencies with a live patient or typodont. Passing these exams is required in all states to qualify for licensure.
Obtaining state licensing
After completing degree requirements and passing all necessary exams, graduates apply for state licensure.
Typically, this process includes:
- Submitting proof of education from an accredited program
- Providing exam results
- Completing background checks
- Passing a jurisprudence exam (in some states)
- Maintaining a CPR certification
Once approved, you earn your Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) credential and can find work.
Earning potential and job outlook
Newly licensed dental hygienists may earn slightly less, with higher wages possible depending on experience and location. That being said, the outlook is pretty positive, with the median annual salary for dental hygienists at $94,260, and top earners making more than $120,060.
Hygienists with bachelor’s degrees may access roles with higher earning potential, leadership responsibilities, or teaching opportunities. Compared to many healthcare careers, dental hygiene offers a short runway to a high-income, in-demand profession with flexible scheduling and strong job security.
Tips for prospective students choosing a Dental Hygienist program
First and foremost, look for programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Consider whether you prefer hands-on, on-campus training or an online/hybrid structure, then compare potential programs based on the clinical opportunities you receive, as well as community partnerships, lab facilities, and support services. Don’t forget to review your admission requirements early, especially if starting in a Pre-Dental Hygiene track.
A promising career path with a short road to success
Programs like UB’s, with flexible AS to BS online dental hygiene programs, offer structured support from the first pre-dental year through associate and bachelor’s pathways, allowing students to build skills along the way, beginning in pre-clinic.
You’ll also get to participate in community partnerships, providing dental education and services in local programs that address real-world needs.
With the right steps, education, clinical training, exams, and licensure, students can begin a fulfilling, in-demand career that supports both personal and professional growth.