Which of the following is required for dental hygienists before they can obtain or renew their license?

The need for dental hygienists to pass a national board examination is essential for both obtaining and renewing their licenses. This examination is designed to assess the knowledge and competencies of dental hygienists in various areas of dental hygiene practices, policies, and infection control measures. Passing this exam ensures that the hygienist has met the national standards of practice necessary to deliver safe and effective patient care.

Licensing boards in different states often use the results of this national examination as a critical component of their licensing process. It serves as a benchmark to validate the educational preparation and practice readiness of dental hygienists, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge to uphold the standards of care within the profession.

While completing an associate's degree is a common educational requirement, it is not universal across all states, as some states may have different educational criteria. Similarly, completing state-required clinical hours is essential for practical training, but these hours are typically prerequisites for taking the examination rather than a standalone requirement for licensure. Demonstrating a minimum number of years of practice is not a standard requirement for obtaining or renewing a license; rather, it pertains more to advanced certifications or specialties within the field. Thus, passing the national board examination is the definitive requirement that validates a dental hygienist’s readiness to