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. For example, a dental hygienist in Colorado can practice without reporting to or receiving the supervision of a dentist.

Do dental hygienists buy their own equipment?

Hygienists who have their own independent or collaborative practices, or have who are qualified to provide care in a more independent setting due to specific licensure or credentialing systems, purchase their own equipment and supplies all of the time. Employees can also own their own equipment.

Do dental hygienists make their own schedule?

One of the biggest perks of working as a dental hygienist is the flexible scheduling. While you might occasionally have to tweak your personal schedule to fit the demands of a busy dental office, most dental hygienists are able to set their own work hours to meet the needs of their hectic lives.

Can hygienists own practices?

In the United States, dental hygienists do not have the option of running an independent practice in most states. The state of California is one of them, and it provides a way for dental hygienists to run their own dental hygiene practice.

Who is the dental hygienist who opened a business?

Jayne Beaumont, who opened her brick-and-mortar office Happy Smiles Dental Hygiene in Dartmouth, N.S., in 2012, has turned her hygiene practice into a family business, bringing her daughter on as a part-time receptionist. She finds many first-time clients are still surprised that she can work outside of a dental office.

Can a licensed dental hygienist practice in Oregon?

Today, dental hygiene is evolving into a more advanced scope of practice. In Oregon, a licensed dental hygienist has the ability to use an expanded practice permit or restorative function endorsement that will allow practice in alternative settings.

Are there states that do not allow dental hygienists?

The only states which do not currently allow direct patient access to dental hygienists are: Like with any major professional change, leaving your current place of employment and launching your own dental practice isn’t something you do on a whim.

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.