You can open your own practice. Most states in the US allow dental hygienists to provide their services without the supervision of an onsite dentist.

Do you have to have a dentist to be a dental hygienist?

Most states in the US allow dental hygienists to provide their services without the supervision of an onsite dentist. You might be required to have certain qualifications, a written agreement with an established dentist permitting your practice or be limited to a degree, depending on where in the country you’re registered.

Is it possible to open your own dental practice?

Stop dreaming and start doing. The ability to own a dental practice or to provide oral care as an independently practicing hygienist is making headway and becoming a reality in many states. Presently, 40 states have authorized direct access care, up from 28 states in 2008. That’s a good thing for hygienists who aspire to open their own practices.

Are there direct access States for dental hygienist?

Since 1995, the number of direct access states has risen from five states to 32. Within those states the laws vary. Federal laws protect the rights of the client as well as the rights of hygienists to utilize free enterprise. Federal laws allow free enterprise in all areas of health care.

Can a veterinarian work as a dental hygienist?

The prophylaxis and education portion could be performed if working with direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian. However, like dentistry, each state has regulations which govern the practice of veterinary medicine.

How often can you see a dental hygienist?

But in other states, hygienists can only directly treat a patient if the patient is seen by a dentist every 12-18 months for an exam. As of 2019, 42 states in the US allow dental hygienists to provide direct dental care to patients without the authorization of a dentist.

Can a dental hygienist make more money as an independent contractor?

While independent contractor dental hygienists have more control over how much money they make, they’re still limited by the number of hours in the day. You can increase your hourly rate, but you can’t increase how many hours you can work before you’re exhausted.