How to Become a Dental Hygienists in Tennessee
Dental Hygienists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $81,810/year, which is 13% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $4,083/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a dental hygienists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in Tennessee typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for dental hygienistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 4,550 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Knoxville.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $92K | $44.31/hr | 1,540 |
| Knoxville | $82K | $39.56/hr | 680 |
| Johnson City | $82K | $39.52/hr | 160 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $80K | $38.5/hr | 170 |
| Chattanooga | $79K | $38.18/hr | 380 |
| Jackson | $79K | $38.08/hr | 110 |
| Cleveland | $79K | $37.86/hr | 80 |
| Clarksville | $77K | $36.82/hr | 170 |
| Memphis | $76K | $36.41/hr | 770 |
| Morristown | $74K | $35.35/hr | 50 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in Tennessee
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in Tennessee?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in Tennessee is $81,810 per year ($39.33/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $65,460 to $97,460.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in Tennessee?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in Tennessee typically require Associate's degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a dental hygienists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $81,810, a dental hygienists in Tennessee would take home approximately $5,495/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($92,160), Knoxville ($82,280), Johnson City ($82,200). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means dental hygienists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.