Dental Hygienist License (RDH) in Montana
Becoming a licensed Dental Hygienist in Montana involves a series of clear steps, including education, exams, and application processes. The path to licensure typically takes anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the mode of study, and can cost between $800 and $2,500. Key steps include meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the national board examination, and applying for licensure with the Montana Board of Dentistry.
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The career of a Dental Hygienist in Montana offers significant opportunities, underscored by a robust job market and an attractive median salary of $90,210 per year. With 221,600 workers nationally in this role, the profession is projected to grow by 7.0% by 2034, indicating a stable and expanding field. Montana's dental hygienists not only enjoy competitive wages but also benefit from the state's growing healthcare needs, making this career a prudent choice for those seeking job security and a rewarding professional path in dental care.
Montana presents a unique environment for dental hygienists due to its specific state regulations and the structure of its healthcare system. Licensing for dental hygienists in Montana is managed through a combination of state and local boards, ensuring that professionals meet the high standards required to offer safe and effective dental care. The state's vast rural areas also influence the demand for healthcare services, including dental care, which can vary significantly from urban centers like Billings and Missoula to more remote locations. This regional variation affects employment opportunities and can influence where a dental hygienist might find the most rewarding work.
This guide provides detailed information on how to obtain a Dental Hygienist License (RDH) in Montana, outlining the necessary steps for certification and what applicants can expect throughout the process. Readers will gain insights into salary expectations and the job market specific to Montana, including key employers and employment trends within the state. By understanding these elements, prospective dental hygienists can effectively prepare for their careers, ensuring they meet all legal requirements and are well-informed about their potential earnings and job opportunities in different regions of the state.
Licensing Authority
Montana Board of Dentistry
In Montana, dental hygienists must obtain a license from the Board of Dentistry, which requires a degree, a background check, passing a third-party exam, and meeting specific training hours. Continuing education is necessary for license renewal.
Official Resources
Montana Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Associate degree or higher in dental hygiene from an accredited program
- Total Training Hours
- Not specified hours
- Classroom Hours
- Not specified hours
- Clinical Hours
- Not specified hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- CPR certification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies
How to Become a Dental Hygienist License in Montana
tuition $500-$2000, exam fee $400, background check $50, application fee $100, textbooks/supplies $150, scrubs $100
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2500
Verify You Meet Montana's Prerequisites
Begin by ensuring you meet the basic requirements to become a Dental Hygienist in Montana. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good physical and mental health. Visit the Montana Board of Dentistry website to review detailed prerequisites and download any necessary forms. Processing times for document verification can take up to 2 weeks, so start this step early.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule a fingerprinting session for a comprehensive background check through the Montana Department of Justice. This check includes both state and FBI levels. You'll also need to complete health screenings, including a TB test and a drug screening. The results typically take 4-6 weeks to process. Disqualifying criminal offenses and positive drug tests may require you to petition for a waiver.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting at local police stations or approved LiveScan locations to expedite processing.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved training program for Dental Hygienists in Montana. Programs not approved by the Montana Board of Dentistry will not qualify you to sit for the licensing exam. Visit the Board's website to access a list of approved programs. Choosing a non-approved program results in ineligible candidacy for licensure, wasting both time and money.
Tip
Contact programs directly to inquire about start dates, tuition costs, and financial aid opportunities.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've selected an approved program, enroll and complete both the classroom and clinical components. Although specific hour requirements for Montana are not predetermined, ensure you meet the program's graduation criteria, which typically aligns with national standards. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate or diploma, necessary for the licensure application.
Tip
Keep a record of all coursework and clinical hours in case of audit by the Montana Board of Dentistry.
Prepare for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
After completing your training, prepare for the NBDHE administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE). The exam consists of 350 multiple-choice questions covering a comprehensive range of topics relevant to dental hygiene. You have a 4-hour time limit to complete the exam. Register for the exam through the JCNDE website, and utilize study guides and practice exams to prepare.
Tip
Take multiple practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and pacing of the actual test.
Register for and Schedule the NBDHE
Complete your registration for the NBDHE by submitting an application through the JCNDE website. After your application is approved, you will receive an authorization to test, allowing you to schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center. Check available dates and locations on the Prometric website and choose a slot that gives you ample time for last-minute preparation.
Tip
Choose a testing date that allows for additional study time if needed.
Take and Pass the NBDHE
On the day of your exam, arrive at the designated Prometric testing center with two forms of ID. The NBDHE is a 4-hour test consisting of 350 questions. If you fail, you can reschedule after a 90-day waiting period. Passing the NBDHE is crucial as it is one of the final steps before applying for licensure.
Tip
Arrive early to the testing center to allow time for check-in procedures and to settle in.
Apply for State Certification and Registry
After passing the NBDHE, apply for your Dental Hygienist license through the Montana Board of Dentistry. Submit a completed application form, proof of passing the NBDHE, and any additional required documents. The processing time can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, your license will be issued, and your name will be added to the state registry.
Tip
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Dental Hygienist license by mail. Verify your licensure status by checking the Montana Board of Dentistry's online registry. This confirmation is necessary for employers to validate your credentials. Keep a copy of your license for your records and future employment verifications.
Tip
Regularly check the mail for your license and immediately verify its status online.
Find Your First Job
With your license verified, begin your job search. Utilize online job boards, networking events, and local dental clinics to find employment opportunities. Prepare your resume and tailor it to each job application. Highlight your skills, education, and any internships or volunteer experiences. Negotiate your salary based on the going rates in Montana, which you can research through industry websites and resources.
Tip
Use specific dental hygiene keywords in your resume to increase visibility in applicant tracking systems.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Montana Board of Dentistry approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) administered by Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE)
Written Test
Questions: 350
Time Limit: 8 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 75%
- • Scientific Basis for Dental Hygiene Practice: 20%
- • Provision of Clinical Dental Hygiene Services: 60%
- • Community Health/Research Principles: 20%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Not applicable
Not applicable
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (Driver's license, Passport)
- ✓ Exam admission letter
- ✓ Approved calculator (if applicable)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal belongings (bags, purses)
- ✗ Electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches)
- ✗ Food and drinks (unless approved for medical reasons)
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 8 hours with scheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within three to four weeks after the exam date. Candidates receive results via the email provided during registration.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 90 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Montana.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on time management, especially since the exam is lengthy. Plan to spend no more than 1-2 minutes per question.
- 2. Prioritize studying areas with the highest percentage of questions, such as Clinical Dental Hygiene Services.
- 3. Use process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Practice full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build stamina and familiarity with the exam format.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institution or GED testing service · Varies · Varies
Official copy required; ensure it is sealed if mailed
Immunization Records
Personal physician or local health department · May incur a fee for copies or updates · 1-2 weeks
Must show proof of MMR, Hepatitis B, and Varicella vaccinations
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results
Local clinic or healthcare provider · Approximately $20-$50 · 2-3 days
Must be current within the year of application
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies; typically one-day course
Must be a healthcare provider level certification
Background Check
Local police department or authorized online service · Approximately $50-$100 · 1-2 weeks
Required for admission to most accredited programs
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the dental hygiene program · No cost · Immediately upon enrollment
Needed for various externships and clinical practices
Liability Insurance
Through the educational institution or a private provider · Approximately $30-$50 annually · Varies
Required for clinical practice
Official Transcripts
From the dental hygiene program · Approximately $5-$15 per copy · 1-2 weeks
Needed for licensure application post-graduation
Clinical Experience Log
Compiled personally; verified by program · No cost · Ongoing throughout training
Essential for licensure; must detail all hands-on experience
3For the Exam
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Application
Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations website · Approximately $400
Registration typically opens months before the exam date
Regional Clinical Exam Application
Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) or appropriate regional board · Approximately $1,200
Cost and specific board may vary depending on the state requirements
Exam Eligibility from Dental Hygiene Program
From the dental hygiene program · No cost
Verification that all program requirements have been met
4For Certification
Application for Licensure
Montana Board of Dentistry website · Approximately $100 application fee
Additional fees for initial licensure and jurisprudence exam may apply
Proof of Passing NBDHE and Regional Clinical Exam
From NBDHE and WREB or respective examination board · No additional cost
Scores must be sent directly from the testing agencies to the state board
Jurisprudence Exam Completion Certificate
Montana Board of Dentistry website · Varies; generally around $50
Test on state-specific dental laws and regulations
Proof of CPR Certification
From certified provider (American Heart Association or Red Cross) · No additional cost if already obtained
Ensure certification is current at time of licensure application
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name is listed in the Montana Board of Dentistry's online registry. Obtain your official RDH certificate by contacting the Board if it hasn't been mailed to you.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Montana Dental Association job board, Indeed, LinkedIn, and local dental society newsletters
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Private dental practices, dental clinics, and community health centers. Private practices often offer more personalized work environments, while clinics might provide higher patient volume and potentially more robust benefits.
Resume Tip: Include your RDH license number, any relevant clinical rotations or externships, CPR certification, and soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a difficult patient.Explain how you maintain high standards of patient care.Discuss how you manage time during a busy clinic schedule.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Montana, a new Dental Hygienist can expect to earn between $55,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on location and type of employer.
Career Advancement Path
Become a Dental Hygiene Educator or Public Health Specialist
Additional certifications in dental hygiene education or public health, plus years of clinical experience
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to different dentist preferences and office protocols, managing patient anxiety, and staying updated with new dental technologies. Building confidence in clinical skills takes time and practice.
Dental Hygienist License Salary in Montana
Dental hygienists in Montana earn a median annual salary of $90,210, which is slightly higher than the national median. This places them in a favorable position compared to their peers across the country.
Entry Level
$65,110
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$90,210
$43.37/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$118,400
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$87,530 national · ++3.1% in Montana
Salary by Metro Area
No specific metro area data for Montana.
Salary by Employer Type
The salary of dental hygienists in Montana is competitive, especially considering the state's relatively lower cost of living compared to many other states.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, dental coverage, paid time off, and retirement plans.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for dental hygienists in Montana is expected to align with national trends, potentially increasing with experience and further education.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications to justify higher pay.
- •Discuss the full benefits package to understand total compensation.
Job Market in Montana
In Montana, the job market for Dental Hygienists (RDH) is moderately aligned with national trends, reflecting a steady demand influenced by the state's rural health needs and population demographics. While the national employment for RDHs is projected to grow by 7.0% from 2024 to 2034, Montana's growth may vary slightly due to its unique healthcare infrastructure and lower population density. Factors such as the aging population and increased focus on preventative dental care drive demand in the state.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest city with multiple dental clinics
Home to several healthcare facilities and a growing population
Increasing population and healthcare services
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with hiring cycles of major healthcare providers
Opportunities
- Expansion in tele-dentistry services
- Increased roles in public health initiatives
Challenges
- Limited number of advanced dental facilities in rural regions
- Competition for positions in urban centers
Training Programs in Montana
Montana offers a few pathways for training as a dental hygienist, focusing primarily on community college programs. These programs are designed to meet the state's licensing requirements and prepare students for the national board exams.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $15,000 to $25,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Great Falls, Montana
Strong clinical focus with modern facilities
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify program accreditation to ensure eligibility for licensure.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Dental Hygienist License program info for Montana
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Varies
CE Hours
Not specified hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Dental hygiene related topics
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Montana allows reciprocity for dental hygienists licensed in other states, provided they meet Montana's standards and have no disciplinary actions.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current licensure in good standing
- Completion of all Montana licensing requirements
State Agreements
Not specified
Additional Exams
May be required depending on the applicant's credentials and state of prior licensure
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement along with required documents and fees
Fees
Varies
Processing Time: Varies
Licensing Tips
Ensure all parts of the application are complete to avoid delays
Stay current with continuing education requirements to ensure smooth license renewal
Recommended Resources
Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene
This book offers a full-length practice test and extensive review material tailored for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
Dental Hygiene Decks
Flashcards that cover key concepts in dental hygiene, useful for reviewing topics and self-testing.
Darby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene
Provides in-depth coverage of all the topics included in the dental hygiene curriculum, including 1,200 practice questions.
Modern Dental Assisting
Though targeted at dental assistants, this guide offers valuable cross-over information relevant for hygienist students, especially in clinical practice.
Dental Hygiene Instruments Kit
Contains essential tools like scalers and probes, needed for practical training and exams.
Protective Eyewear
Safety goggles are mandatory for protecting eyes during clinical procedures.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Montana Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12