DENTAL HYGIENIST License in Wisconsin

Wisconsin requires dental hygienist applicants to graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the NBDHE plus a clinical examination. The Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board, under the Department of Safety and Professional Services, oversees dental hygienist licensing. CE is required for biennial renewal, with a minimum of 24 hours per renewal period including mandatory topics determined by the board. Wisconsin has established a Dental Hygienist Practice in Underserved Areas provision that allows qualified hygienists to provide preventive services in schools, nursing homes, and community health centers with a collaborative agreement with a supervising dentist rather than requiring direct supervision. The state has CODA-accredited programs at Marquette University, Madison Area Technical College, Fox Valley Technical College, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, and Waukesha County Technical College. Wisconsin's rural dairy country, northern woods communities, and tribal reservations face dental professional shortages, while the Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay metropolitan areas have more competitive employment markets with diverse practice opportunities. The state permits nitrous oxide administration with additional certification and training.