Let’s Have a Real Talk about Dental Hygienist Salary Numbers in 2025

At DentalMAX Solutions, we know that a thriving dental practice depends on more than just great marketing — it thrives when every member of the team is empowered to work at their highest level, especially your hygienists.

As a full-service marketing and operations firm for dental practices, we’re constantly in conversation with office managers and practice owners about team support, performance, and fair compensation. That’s why we’re excited to repost this timely and eye-opening piece by Kelly Tanner, PhD, RDH, breaking down what the $100/hour conversation really means in 2025 — and what it takes to get there.

This salary milestone has been making waves across the industry, with sources like DrBicuspid reporting on the realities and implications of hygienists reaching or even exceeding the $100/hour mark. Kelly's insights build on that conversation by looking at what hygienists and practices can do to support that value long term.

Throughout my 25+ years as a member of the American Dental Hygienists' Association and a volunteer at regional, state, and national levels, I've watched the evolution of our profession. Let me be clear ... the pandemic didn't create the hygienist shortage we're experiencing. Hygiene salaries have been a hot topic of conversation long before COVID-19 arrived. What happened was a perfect storm of events that finally brought these issues to the forefront.

Today, I see hygienists in some areas commanding $100 per hour, which raises important questions we must consider. Before we focus solely on the number, we should understand the context. Are these hygienists being measured on key performance indicators (KPIs)? What certifications and additional training do they bring to the table? Do they have specialized experience or additional benefits in their compensation package?

We've all encountered professionals who are in their jobs primarily for the money. That's not unique to dental hygiene. But consider this: Would you pass the litmus test if a faculty member checked your patient after your appointment?

To assess risk factors, are you diligently following ADPIED (assess, diagnose, plan, implement, evaluate, and document)? Are you having meaningful conversations with patients about their disease status? Are you providing care as if money wasn't a consideration?

When I consult with practices, I frequently hear doctors' concerns about granting more autonomy to hygienists. Why? Because they observe hygienists who aren't thoroughly treating patients and preparing them for the doctor's exam. They see "spot" probings being completed rather than comprehensive assessments. They notice procedures that don't align with the diagnosis.

I'm not suggesting this is what you do, but I've witnessed these practices firsthand. This is happening in our profession ... and we must address it honestly.