So You Wanna Shine Up Smiles in the Evergreen State: How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Hygienist in Washington?
Brushing up on pearly whites is a noble pursuit, and if you're looking to become a dental hygienist in Washington, then high fives for your ambition! But before you dive headfirst into a world of floss and fluoride, you might be wondering: how long does it actually take to become a licensed dental hygienist in Washington state?
Well, buckle up, because we're about to floss out the answer for you (see what I did there?).
The Great Degree Debate: Associate's vs. Bachelor's
There are two main paths to becoming a dental hygienist in Washington: the associate's degree and the bachelor's degree.
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The Associate Degree: This is the express route, clocking in at around 20-30 months. It's a focused program that equips you with the skills you need to hit the ground running as a dental hygienist. Think of it as a dental hygiene bootcamp!
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The Bachelor's Degree: This one takes a bit longer, stretching to 4 years. But hey, with a bachelor's degree, you get the bragging rights and might open doors to leadership roles or teaching gigs in the future. It's like adding a fancy dental hygiene frosting to your knowledge cake!
Important Side Note: No matter which path you choose, make sure your program is accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA) Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This is like getting a Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval for dental hygiene education – essential for licensure!
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Becoming a Licensed Superhero (of Dental Hygiene)
Once you've conquered your degree, it's time to become a full-fledged dental hygiene hero! Here's what you need to do next:
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Ace the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE): This is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge and skills. Think of it as your final exam before dental hygiene graduation!
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Pass the Washington State Clinical Exam: This exam tests your practical skills under the watchful eye of dental professionals. Time to show off those teeth-cleaning techniques!
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Get Licensed by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH): This is where the official rubber meets the dental road. You'll need to submit your application, transcripts, and exam scores to the DOH.
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| How Long Does It Take To Become A Dental Hygienist In Washington State |
So, how long does it ALL take?
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
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Adding up the program, exams, and licensing process, it can take anywhere from 2-4 years to become a licensed dental hygienist in Washington state. But hey, those years will fly by as you learn to wield the power of dental floss for good!
How To... FAQs for the Aspiring Washington Dental Hygienist
Got some lingering questions? Don't worry, we've got you covered with this handy FAQ section:
How to Find an Accredited Dental Hygiene Program in Washington?
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
The Washington State Department of Health maintains a list of approved programs https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/dental-hygienist.
How Much Does Dental Hygiene School Cost in Washington?
Costs vary depending on the program and institution, but expect to pay anywhere from $4,230 to $46,980 for an associate's degree program.
How Much Do Dental Hygienists Make in Washington?
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists in Washington make a median salary of $88,550 (as of May 2022) – not bad for a smile-making career!
How to Decide Between an Associate's and Bachelor's Degree?
Consider your career goals and budget. An associate's degree gets you working faster, while a bachelor's degree opens doors to leadership opportunities.
How to Shine in a Dental Hygiene Program Application?
Strong science grades, volunteer experience in dental settings, and a passion for dental health all look great on an application!
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