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Dental Hygienist

ANZSCO 411211

A Dental Hygienist performs minor procedures, cleans teeth, offers preventative care advice, and collaborates with dentists in various settings.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • ACT
      • QLD
      • TAS
      • WA
      • SA
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a dental hygienist

Get qualified to work as a dental hygienist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Dental Hygienist generally earns $1,913 per week ($99,476 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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This industry has seen an increase in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 1,300 people working as a Dental Hygienist in Australia compared to 1,100 five years ago. Dental Hygienists may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If this career interests you, consider enrolling in a Dual Certificate III in Dental Assisting and Certificate IV in Dental Assisting with Oral Health Promotion Specialisation. This course will give you the skills to assist with dental procedures and prepare individualised oral hygiene programs for your clients.

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Further reading

How to start a career as a Dental Assistant

7th December 2021

What can you do with a Certificate III in Dental Assisting?

4th March 2021

How to become a dental assistant

24th February 2020

Dental Hygienist careers

A Dental Hygienist performs minor dental procedures and assessments on clients. You might work at an oral health clinic, a dental practice or other dental service. Dental Hygienists conduct teeth cleaning and plaque removal procedures and may offer advice on preventative care. You’ll work closely with dentists and other oral health professionals.

Dental Hygienists should have excellent attention to detail and strong personal skills. It’s important that you can communicate well with clients and listen to their concerns. Dental Hygienists will deal with many patients each day so you’ll need to be organised and have good time management skills.