Arizona Dental Hygienist Requirements

Are you considering becoming a dental hygienist in Arizona? This page is your go-to resource for everything you need to know about the requirements and steps involved in becoming a licensed dental hygienist in Arizona.

Becoming a dental hygienist in Arizona requires you to complete a formal education program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). These programs are typically available at community colleges, technical schools, and universities. 

A dental hygiene program takes roughly two to three years to complete and requires you to take courses in physiology, anatomy, radiology, pathology, microbiology, and other dental related courses. Some dental hygiene schools in Arizona are: 

• Phoenix College
• Rio Salado College 
• Mesa Community College
• Pima Community College 
• Northern Arizona University
• Maricopa Community College

Once you complete your program, you’ll earn an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene, but some programs do offer Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees.

Once you’ve graduated from an accredited dental hygiene program, the next step is to obtain your license. Here are the steps you need to take to get your dental hygiene license.. 

1. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination: You will need to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). This written test is designed to test your dental hygiene knowledge including patient care, client practice, and medical emergencies. 
2. Pass the Arizona Clinical Exam: In addition to taking the NBDHE, you must pass a clinical exam to demonstrate your hands-on skills in a real dental setting. 
3. Apply for Licensure with the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners: After passing the NBDHE and the clinical examination, you will have to submit your application for licensure. This includes proof of education, exam score, and completing a background check. 

Once you have become a licensed dental hygienist, you must complete continuing education (CE) courses to maintain licensure. Arizona requires registered dental hygienists to complete at least 12 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. This ensures that hygienists stay up to date with the latest techniques, advancements, and technology. 

Arizona dental hygienists have to renew their licenses every two years. The process involves submitting proof of continuing education credits and paying a renewal fee. 

Becoming a dental hygienist in Arizona requires dedication to education and training, but the rewards are worth it. With job security, competitive pay, and a growing demand for dental care, Arizona offers great opportunities for dental hygienists. If you’re ready to start your career in dental hygiene, follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll be well on your way to success in this rewarding field.