Dental Hygienists Are Paid about $36 an Hour: Survey Results
Dental Hygienists Are Paid Well (Some Dentists Think Too Well…)
In our most recent survey, we asked dentists the average hourly wage of their dental hygienists; the average answer was $36 an hour, whether paid on commission, by the hour, or salaried. However, the range is wide, with some making $20 or less and others pulling in $50 or more. Dentists’ feelings on the subject are mixed; some feel hygienists are grossly overpaid, while others insist they’re worth every penny.
Here are just a few of the comments from our dentists:
- “She’s worth every penny, makes me a fortune.” (Illinois dentist paying $55/hr)
- “I think dental hygienists are overpaid in our region. There are so few of them that they can dictate their rate.” (North Carolina dentist paying $32.50/hr)
- “PLUS: health insurance, vacation, paid holidays, retirement, FICA, Holiday Bonus, Birthday lunches and gifts.” (North Carolina dentist paying $31/hr)
- “My hygienist works for 32% of production.” (Florida dentist)
- “They get paid too much for what little they do.” (New York orthodontist paying $27/hr)
- “In DC the average is $350 per 8-hour day. Now I live in Utah and it’s $250.”
- Have an opinion? Post your own comments below!
Read the complete dental hygienist pay survey results.
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July 4th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
I am a dental hygienist. You are all correct. Some hygienists are worth $20/hour and some $50/hour. Can she give anesthetic, can she sell needed dentistry, can she laser and root plane well? Doe she back you up when pts are doubtful? Do patients want to see her more than you? What would her services be worth if you had to perform her work? Does she put herself on a pedestal or does she jump in there as a team member? If you think she is overpaid your are probably correct…Go find one who is worth her keep. They are out there!
August 1st, 2008 at 10:40 am
I believe you get what you ask for. Good communication is key. Discuss before you hire what is expected with every aspect: team work, expectations, duties, attitude, etc. I am sure there are hygienists worth 20/hr but many are worth much more in comparison to what they bring in, depending on time allowed for each appointment and services rendered. It also has to do with how you percieve things, positive attitude equals positive return.