Dental Hygienist Salary Trends 2022-2031

Curious about dental hygienist pay in Nevada? Whether you’re a student, job seeker, or dental practice owner, knowing salary trends can help you plan smarter.

Dental hygienists are more than just tooth cleaners—they're central to patient care and profitability. If you're considering a dental hygiene career or want to optimize your hygiene department, Nevada offers strong financial incentives.


What’s the Average Salary of a Dental Hygienist in Nevada?

According to the latest data, the average dental hygienist salary in Nevada is around $89,000 per year, with top earners in cities like Las Vegas making over $100,000 annually. That’s well above the national average of approximately $81,000.

🡺 See full salary breakdown by state: Where Dentists and Dental Hygienists Get Paid the Most – Dental Care Alliance

Why Nevada Hygienists Earn More

Several factors contribute to the higher pay in Nevada:

  • Supply and Demand: Nevada faces shortages of licensed dental hygienists in certain areas.
  • Scope of Practice: Nevada permits general supervision, allowing hygienists more independence.
  • Urban Density: High-population cities like Las Vegas create stronger demand and better salaries.

📚 Want to explore starting your own hygiene office in a flexible state? Check out:
Dental Hygienist: Opening Your Own Practice – Cloud Dentistry Blog

Education and Experience Matter

According to Zippia’s demographic insights, dental hygienists with a four-year degree make roughly $9,000 more per year than those with an associate degree.

Licensing, continuing education, and specialization in advanced skills (like local anesthesia) also play key roles in boosting income.

💬 Denise Bundy, RDH, shares her career perspective:

“The National Board exam is extensive… and there's little reciprocity between states.”
Read her full Quora response

Where Are US Dental Hygienists Paid the Most and Least?

Where are dental hygienists paid the most in the US?
Where the dental hygienists paid the least

Image Sources: Dental Care Alliance

Job Outlook for Nevada Hygienists

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 9% job growth from 2021 to 2031 for dental hygienists, making it a stable and growing field.

More dentists are empowering hygienists to help with treatment planning, patient communication, and preventive care recommendations. This trend increases both practice profitability and hygienist income.

Turning Dental Hygiene Into a Profit Center

You can transform your hygiene department into a revenue-generating powerhouse. According to DentistryIQ, empowering hygienists to build strong patient relationships can reduce cancellations, boost treatment acceptance, and improve patient loyalty.

Tips include:

  • Give hygienists time to educate patients
  • Let them pre-schedule appointments
  • Use them as brand ambassadors during visits

Flexibility and Lifestyle vs Income

Not all hygienists chase top-dollar salaries. Many in Nevada prefer part-time or flexible schedules for better work-life balance. Others reduce hours to avoid physical strain on their wrists, backs, and shoulders.

Still, even part-time hygienists in Nevada can earn strong hourly wages—often $40 to $50 per hour or more.

Is Dental Hygiene Worth It in Nevada?

Absolutely. Nevada offers one of the most attractive salary ranges for dental hygienists, especially for those who:

  • Pursue continuing education
  • Work in busy urban practices
  • Are willing to specialize or take on leadership roles

Whether you're looking to grow your career or boost your practice's profitability, investing in high-quality hygiene services pays off.

📈 Ready to grow your practice or your personal brand?
Check out our tips on the Dental Marketing Blog to learn how dental hygienists can increase their value through smart marketing strategies.

Justin

About the Author - Justin Morgan

Justin Morgan is the CEO and founder of what most of us affectionately refer to as the “DMG.” From all circles within the dental industry who address dental marketing as a topic, Justin Morgan is the dental marketing guy that everyone keeps talking about.

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