Dental Hygienist License (RDH) in Tennessee
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Tennessee, candidates must meet specific prerequisites, complete state-approved training, pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), and apply for licensure. The process typically takes 8-12 months and costs range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the chosen educational program.
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In Tennessee, pursuing a career as a Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a promising choice given the role's strong demand and lucrative salary prospects. The median annual salary for dental hygienists in the state is $75,500, compared to the national median, highlighting significant earning potential. The field is also experiencing healthy growth, with a projected 7.0% increase in employment opportunities by 2034, reflecting the ongoing need for dental care and preventative services across the population.
Tennessee offers a distinctive environment for dental hygienists due to its specific state regulations and a healthcare system that prioritizes oral health. The state's major cities like Nashville and Memphis not only provide numerous employment opportunities but also house key healthcare institutions and dental practices that consistently seek skilled dental hygienists. Regional factors such as the prevalence of dental health initiatives and community health programs also enhance the career prospects within the state, making it an attractive location for professionals in this field.
This guide is designed to equip potential RDHs with detailed information on obtaining licensure in Tennessee. Readers will learn about the essential steps to certification, including educational requirements, passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, and completing the Tennessee jurisprudence exam. The guide also covers salary expectations, insights into the job market, and tips for securing employment within the state's leading healthcare facilities. These elements are crucial for anyone looking to establish a successful career as a Dental Hygienist in Tennessee.
Licensing Authority
Tennessee Department of Health, Division of Health Related Boards
In Tennessee, dental hygienists must meet specific licensing requirements, including education, examinations, and background checks. Licenses are renewed biennially, with continuing education required.
Official Resources
Tennessee Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 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
- Good moral character and reputation
- U.S. Citizenship or work authorization
Certification Exam
- Exam
- ADEX or Western Regional Examining Board examination, National Board examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Not specified
How to Become a Dental Hygienist License in Tennessee
tuition $4000-$14000, exam fee $400, background check $50, application fee $100, textbooks/supplies $200, scrubs $250
Fastest Path
8 months
Typical Timeline
12 months
Estimated Cost
$5000–$15000
Verify Eligibility for Dental Hygienist Licensure in Tennessee
Begin by confirming you meet the prerequisites for licensure as a Dental Hygienist in Tennessee. This includes being at least 18 years old, holding a high school diploma or GED, and having no prior disqualifying criminal offenses. Visit the Tennessee Board of Dentistry's website to review detailed requirements and download the necessary forms for verification.
Tip
Ensure all personal information on your documents matches to avoid processing delays.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Schedule and complete a comprehensive background check including an FBI fingerprint scan. You can arrange for fingerprinting through Identogo. Additionally, complete required health screenings, which typically include a TB test and a drug screening. Collect all results as they must be submitted with your application.
Tip
Schedule your health screenings early to avoid delays in processing your application.
Select a State-Approved Dental Hygiene Program
Research and choose a dental hygiene program that is approved by the Tennessee Board of Dentistry. Visit the American Dental Association's website to access a list of accredited programs in Tennessee. Enrolling in a non-approved program will render you ineligible to sit for the licensing exam.
Tip
Contact programs directly to inquire about start dates and prerequisites.
Enroll in and Complete the Dental Hygiene Program
After selecting an approved program, complete the necessary enrollment process and begin your studies. The program typically includes both classroom and clinical training, although specific hour requirements are not mandated by the state. Ensure you meet all the program's graduation requirements to qualify for the licensure examination.
Tip
Maintain a record of all coursework and clinical hours for your licensure application.
Prepare for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
Begin preparing for the NBDHE, administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. Utilize study materials and practice tests available through the ADA website. The exam includes both a written component and a clinical simulation. Familiarize yourself with the format and content to ensure a passing score.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to monitor your progress and focus on weak areas.
Register and Schedule Your NBDHE
Once you are prepared, register for the NBDHE through the ADA's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. Select a testing date and location that are convenient for you. Pay the examination fee and receive confirmation of your test schedule.
Tip
Choose a test date that allows ample time for any unforeseen delays.
Take and Pass the NBDHE
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early with two forms of ID and any required materials. The NBDHE consists of a written test and a clinical simulation, each designed to assess your readiness to practice as a dental hygienist. Upon passing, you will receive your results within a few weeks.
Tip
Ensure you are well-rested and have reviewed all exam protocols prior to test day.
Apply for Tennessee Dental Hygienist Licensure
After passing the NBDHE, apply for your dental hygienist license through the Tennessee Board of Dentistry. Submit all required documentation, including proof of education, test results, and background check clearance. Pay the application fee and await confirmation of your licensure.
Tip
Double-check your application for completeness to avoid delays.
Receive Your License and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is approved, you will receive your Tennessee dental hygienist license. Verify your license status on the Tennessee Health Department's online registry. This confirmation is necessary for legal employment as a dental hygienist in the state.
Tip
Regularly check the online registry if there are delays in notification.
Begin Your Dental Hygienist Career
With your license verified, start your career as a dental hygienist. Utilize job search platforms like Indeed or LinkedIn to find employment opportunities in Tennessee. Consider different types of employment settings such as private dental offices, hospitals, or public health agencies.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight skills and experiences relevant to dental hygiene.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Tennessee 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) administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 350
Time Limit: 4 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 75
- • Scientific Basis for Dental Hygiene Practice: 20%
- • Provision of Clinical Dental Hygiene Services: 20%
- • Community Health/Research Principles: 10%
- • Case-based component related to all aspects of dental hygiene: 50%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The NBDHE does not include a practical skills test; it is entirely written.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one with a recent photograph
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter
- ✓ Several No. 2 pencils
- ✓ A non-programmable calculator
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Cell phones
- ✗ Smart watches
- ✗ Personal items such as bags and coats
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. The written test is 4 hours long. There are no breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available through your online Pearson VUE account within three weeks after the exam.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 90 days. The cost of retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no limit on the number of attempts in Tennessee.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on the case-based questions, which make up half of the exam. These require applying knowledge to specific scenarios.
- 2. Manage your time effectively, allotting no more than 1 minute per question, especially since some questions are grouped in cases.
- 3. Familiarize yourself with the format of multiple-choice questions used by Pearson VUE to avoid surprises on test day.
- 4. Review scientific and community health principles thoroughly, as these are foundational to many case-based questions.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From the issuing high school or GED program · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Original or certified copy required
Proof of Immunizations (MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, Tetanus)
From a healthcare provider or previous school records · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Must be up-to-date; some vaccines require multiple doses over several months
TB Test Results
From a healthcare provider · Varies · 1-2 days
Required annually; ensure it's current during application
CPR Certification
From an accredited provider like the American Heart Association · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies; typically one day
Must be a Healthcare Provider level certification
Background Check
Third-party provider or through the dental hygienist school · Approximately $50-$100 · 1-3 weeks
Some schools may facilitate this as part of the admissions process
2During Training
Official Transcripts
From the dental hygienist program · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Required for transferring credits or for licensure application
Clinical Experience Documentation
From the dental hygienist program · Included in program costs · At the completion of each clinical rotation
Keep records updated and validated by supervising professionals
3For the Exam
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Application
Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations website · Approximately $400
Registration must be completed prior to scheduling the exam
CPR Card
From an accredited provider like the American Heart Association · No additional cost if already obtained
Ensure the card is still valid on the exam day
Photo ID
State or government issued · No additional cost if already possessed
Required for identity verification at the exam center
4For Certification
Application for Licensure
Tennessee Board of Dentistry website · Approximately $100
Ensure all sections are completed accurately
Proof of Passing the NBDHE
From the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations · Included with exam fee
Official scores are sent directly to the state board
Proof of Graduation from an Accredited Dental Hygiene Program
From the dental hygienist program · Varies
Official transcript must show degree conferred
Jurisprudence Exam Certificate
Tennessee Board of Dentistry website · Approximately $50
Online exam specific to Tennessee dental laws and regulations
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your license status on the Tennessee Board of Dentistry website. Ensure your name appears correctly on the registry. Collect your physical license certificate from the board or wait for it to arrive by mail.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and the American Dental Hygienists Association (ADHA) job board specifically for Tennessee
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Private dental practices, public health clinics, and dental service organizations. Private practices may offer more personalized work environments, while larger organizations might provide better benefits and structured training programs.
Resume Tip: Highlight any clinical rotations, volunteer work in dental settings, relevant coursework, 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 stay organized and manage time during appointments.Provide examples of how you've worked effectively in a team.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Tennessee, a new Dental Hygienist can expect a salary range between $58,000 to $72,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
Become a Dental Hygiene Educator or pursue specialized roles such as in periodontics.
Most advanced roles require additional certifications or a bachelor's or master's degree in dental hygiene.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to different office environments, managing patient anxiety, staying updated with new dental technologies and treatments, and handling the physical demands of the job.
Dental Hygienist License Salary in Tennessee
In Tennessee, the median salary for Dental Hygienists (RDH) is $75,500 annually or $36.30 per hour, which is lower compared to the national median. The salary levels in Tennessee reflect the state's economic conditions and the demand for dental care services.
Entry Level
$65,110
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$75,500
$36.3/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$90,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$87,530 national · -13.7% in Tennessee
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly higher than state median due to larger population and higher demand.
Slightly below state median, reflecting the local economic conditions.
Aligns closely with state median.
Salary by Employer Type
While salaries for RDHs in Tennessee are below the national average, the state's lower cost of living can compensate for the lower wage levels, making it a balanced financial environment for professionals.
Benefits & Compensation
Dental hygienists in Tennessee often receive benefits including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Some employers also provide continuing education funding.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for RDHs in Tennessee is expected to align with the national average, driven by ongoing demand for dental services and population growth.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications
- •Discuss continuous professional development and its benefits to the practice
Job Market in Tennessee
The job market for Dental Hygienists in Tennessee is influenced by national growth trends but experiences unique local dynamics. With a national growth rate projected at 7.0% from 2024 to 2034, Tennessee's market is shaped by its aging population and increasing healthcare demands. The state's emphasis on preventive dental care is also a significant driver of employment for dental hygienists.
Top Hiring Areas
Concentration of healthcare facilities and insurance headquarters
Growing healthcare sector, but less concentrated than Nashville
Presence of university medical centers and clinics
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with hiring cycles of major healthcare providers
Opportunities
- Continuing education leading to expanded practice roles
- Growing market for pediatric and geriatric dental care
Challenges
- Limited advancement opportunities without further education
- Competitive entry-level market in urban areas
Training Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee offers several accredited programs for aspiring dental hygienists, providing options through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored training.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Nashville, Tennessee
Offers clinical experience in diverse settings
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Strong community partnerships for clinical practice
Online & Hybrid Options
Several programs offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person clinical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Check the program's accreditation status and exam pass rates to ensure quality.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Dental Hygienist License program info for Tennessee
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every two years
Renewal Fee
Not specified
CE Hours
Not specified hours
Work requirement: Not specified
CE Topics: Not specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Tennessee allows reciprocity for dental hygienists licensed in other states, provided they meet specific requirements and have practiced for three of the last five years.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- License in good standing in another state
- Minimum practice of three out of the last five years
State Agreements
Not specified
Additional Exams
Depends on individual qualifications and state agreements
Application Process
Submit application with proof of current licensure and practice history
Fees
Not specified
Processing Time: Not specified
Licensing Tips
Verify all educational and examination requirements prior to application.
Maintain records of continuing education for renewal purposes.
Recommended Resources
Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene
This book offers a thorough review of topics and includes multiple practice exams to test knowledge.
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Practice Questions
Provides a series of practice questions that specifically align with the NBDHE format, aiding in exam preparation.
Dental Hygiene: Theory and Practice by Michele Leonardi Darby
Covers both theoretical and practical aspects of dental hygiene, suitable for students preparing for licensure.
Dental Decks Hygiene Edition
Flashcards that cover a broad range of dental hygiene subjects, useful for quick study sessions and reinforcing key concepts.
Dental Hygiene Instruments Kit
Contains essential tools such as scalers and curettes, necessary for clinical training and exams.
Typodont
A model of the human mouth used to practice dental procedures, crucial for hands-on learning in dental hygiene education.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Tennessee Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12