Dental Hygienist in Portland, ME
Salary data, training programs, and job outlook for Portland-area Dental Hygienists
💰 Portland Area Salary
Salaries vary by employer, experience, and certifications. Portland figures based on regional BLS data and cost-of-living adjustments.
📋 About Dental Hygienist Work in Portland
Dental hygienists clean teeth, take X-rays, and educate patients on oral health. It's one of the best-paying 2-year degree jobs in America — many earn $70K–$100K+ working 3–4 days a week with no weekends.
What You Do Day-to-Day
- Clean teeth and remove plaque/tartar
- Take dental X-rays
- Screen for oral cancer and gum disease
- Apply sealants and fluoride treatments
- Document and update patient charts
🎓 Training Programs Near Portland
Browse all Maine schools offering Dental Hygienist programs.
📈 Job Outlook
National Growth: 9% (Faster than average)
National Jobs: 217K employed nationwide
Credential Required: RDH License (NBDHE exam)
Typical Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene — 2–3 years