What is a dental hygiene license?

A dental hygiene license is a credential required for dental hygienists to practice legally. This license ensures that individuals have met specific education and testing requirements mandated by the state in which they intend to work. Typically, this includes completing an accredited dental hygiene program and passing both a written and a clinical examination.

The existence of this licensing system underscores the importance of public safety and the standardization of skills and knowledge within the profession. It assures patients that their dental hygienists have the necessary training to provide competent care and understand the intricacies of dental health practices.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent what a dental hygiene license entails. A temporary certification for dental assistants or advanced certifications pertain to different roles and are not equivalent to the authority conferred by a dental hygiene license. Additionally, no single permit allows practice across multiple states without testing, as licensure regulations vary by state and typically require individual assessment to ensure familiarity with state laws and practice standards.