Dental Hygienist in Biloxi, MS

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Dental Hygienists considering a move to Biloxi, Mississippi.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Biloxi Stands

As a local who's watched this coastal job market for years, I can tell you that dental hygiene in Biloxi offers a solid middle-class income that goes further here than almost anywhere else. The median salary for a Dental Hygienist in the Biloxi metro area is $84,720/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $40.73/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $87,530/year, but the difference is more than made up for by Biloxi's exceptionally low cost of living.

Understanding where you fall on the pay scale is crucial. Let's break down what you can expect based on your experience level.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Experience Level	Years in Field	Typical Annual Salary (Biloxi)	Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2	$68,000 - $75,000	$32.69 - $36.06
Mid-Career	3-7	$82,000 - $90,000	$39.42 - $43.27
Senior	8-15	$91,000 - $100,000	$43.75 - $48.08
Expert/Lead	15+	$100,000+	$48.08+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local market data and the provided median salary. Specialists or hygienists in private practice with production bonuses can exceed these figures.

Comparison to Other Mississippi Cities

While Biloxi's median salary is strong, it's important to see how it stacks up within the state. The Gulf Coast market is unique due to tourism and retiree populations.

Mississippi City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Effective Purchasing Power
Biloxi	$84,720	89.3	Very High
Gulfport	$84,720	89.3	Very High
Jackson	$86,500	88.1	High
Hattiesburg	$82,100	86.5	High
Southaven	$87,200	92.4	Moderate

Insider Tip: Biloxi and Gulfport essentially share the same job market. Many hygienists live in one city and work in the other. The salaries are identical due to the shared metro area. Southaven (near Memphis) pays slightly more but has a higher cost of living, making Biloxi the financial winner for your paycheck.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your monthly budget. We'll use the median salary of $84,720/year as our baseline. (Note: This is before taxes and insurance deductions.)

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Earner)

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$7,060	(Salary ÷ 12)
Taxes (Est. 25%)	-$1,765	Federal, State, FICA (MS has a progressive tax)
Net Take-Home	~$5,295	After standard deductions
Rent (1BR Avg)	- $923	Citywide average
Utilities	- $180	Electric, water, internet (Gulf Coast humidity is a factor)
Car Payment/Insurance	- $550	MS auto insurance is lower than coastal states
Groceries	- $400
Health Insurance	- $250	Employer-sponsored plan (single)
Discretionary/Debt	- $1,292	Savings, entertainment, student loans, etc.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely. With a $5,295 monthly net income and a $923 rent payment, your debt-to-income ratio is favorable. A median-priced home in Biloxi is around $180,000. With a 20% down payment ($36,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% would be roughly $950/month (including taxes & insurance). This is only slightly more than rent, making homeownership a very realistic goal for a mid-career hygienist. Building equity in Biloxi's stable housing market is a major financial advantage.

Where the Jobs Are: Biloxi's Major Employers

Biloxi's dental job market is dominated by a mix of large corporate chains, private group practices, and specialized clinics catering to the area's significant retiree population. The metro area has 98 jobs for dental hygienists, with a 10-year job growth projection of 9%, which is steady and reliable.

Here are the key players to target:

1. Coastal Family Health Center: A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with multiple locations in Biloxi, Gulfport, and Long Beach. They are a major employer for hygienists, offering a stable work environment, benefits, and the chance to serve a diverse patient base, including low-income and elderly populations. They often have openings and are very supportive of new grads.

2. Bright Now! Dental / Pacific Dental Services: This large corporate chain has a significant presence on the Gulf Coast. They offer modern facilities, structured career paths, and often have the most numerous job postings. The pace can be fast, but you get excellent experience with advanced technology and a variety of procedures. Hiring trends are consistently active.

3. Local Private Group Practices: Look for well-established practices like Ocean Springs Dental Group (just over the bridge, a popular commute), Biloxi Family Dental Care, and Gulf Coast Dental. These practices often have lower turnover and offer a more personal, family-like atmosphere. They may not post jobs online as frequently, so a direct call or dropping off a resume is a pro-move.

4. Keesler Air Force Base Dental Clinic: As a major military installation in Biloxi, the base employs civilian dental hygienists. These jobs are highly sought-after for their excellent benefits, job security, and predictable hours. Hiring is often through USAJobs.gov and can be competitive.

5. Memorial Hospital at Gulfport & Singing River Health System: While these are hospitals, their dental departments and associated oral surgery clinics employ hygienists for specialized pre- and post-operative care. These roles are less common but offer a break from the typical private practice setting.

6. Specialty Clinics (Periodontal/Orthodontic): Several clinics, such as Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants or Coastal Orthodontics, hire hygienists for specific, higher-skilled duties. These positions often pay a premium and are great for those looking to specialize.

Hiring Trends: The market is competitive but not saturated. The 9% growth indicates steady demand. The retiree population ensures consistent demand for preventative and restorative care. The best time to look is often late spring/early summer, as practices prepare for the increased patient volume that comes with the winter "snowbird" season.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi's licensing is straightforward but must be followed precisely. The Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners (MSBDE) is the governing body.

1. Education: You must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program. There are several excellent programs in-state, including at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson) and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (Perkinston campus, which is very close to Biloxi).
2. Examinations: You must pass both the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a clinical exam. Mississippi is a member of the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA), so you'll take the SRTA clinical exam.
3. State Law Exam: Mississippi requires a separate state jurisprudence exam, which you can study for and take online.
4. Costs & Timeline:
   • NBDHE Exam Fee: ~$485
   • SRTA Clinical Exam Fee: ~$1,200
   • MS Application & License Fee: ~$250 (total for initial license)
   • Total Estimated Cost: $1,935 (excluding tuition)
   • Timeline: From graduation to holding your license, expect 2-4 months to complete all exams and paperwork. You can start applying for jobs 1-2 months before you expect to receive your license.

Insider Tip: Once licensed, your license is good for two years. You must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE) during each renewal period, including 2 hours in infection control. The MSBDE website is your best resource for all application forms and rules.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Choosing where to live in Biloxi depends on your lifestyle and commute tolerance. The I-10 and Highway 90 are the main arteries.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg 1BR Rent	Best For...
East Biloxi / Point Cadet	Historic, walkable, close to beaches & casinos. 10-15 min to most jobs.	$850 - $1,000	Young professionals who want nightlife and culture.
North Biloxi / D'Iberville	Suburban, family-friendly, great shopping. 15-20 min commute.	$900 - $1,100	Those wanting newer apartments and a quieter lifestyle.
Ocean Springs (East)	Artsy, charming, walkable downtown. 20-25 min commute to Biloxi.	$950 - $1,200	Hygienists who prioritize a tight-knit community and aesthetics.
Gulfport (West)	Similar to Biloxi, larger retail. 10-15 min commute to Biloxi jobs.	$900 - $1,150	Anyone open to a 10-minute longer commute for more options.
Downtown Biloxi	Revitalizing, historic, some walkable offerings. 5-10 min commute.	$975 - $1,300	Urbanites who want a short commute and are okay with a developing scene.

Insider Tip: Traffic is minimal outside of tourist season (Mardi Gras, holidays). Most commutes are under 20 minutes. Living in Ocean Springs is very popular due to its quality of life, but you'll cross the Bay Bridge, which can back up during peak tourist times.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Biloxi is a great place to build a long-term career. The 10-year job growth of 9% provides stability, and the low cost of living allows you to invest in further education.

• Specialty Premiums: While general hygiene pays the median, specialties can increase your income. A hygienist with advanced training in periodontal therapy or laser dentistry can command a 10-15% premium. Some corporate practices offer bonuses for production or patient retention.
• Advancement Paths: From a clinical role, you can move into:
  • Lead Hygienist: Overseeing other hygienists, managing inventory.
  • Clinical Director: For larger practices, managing the entire clinical team and protocols.
  • Public Health: With an FQHC like Coastal Family, you can move into program coordination or education roles.
  • Education: Becoming a clinical instructor at a local dental hygiene program (requires a Bachelor's or Master's degree).
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain strong. The retiree population guarantees a steady patient base. The rise of corporate dentistry means more structured, if less autonomous, career ladders. For those who get into a good private practice early, there's potential for profit-sharing or partnership tracks, which are rare in other markets.

The Verdict: Is Biloxi Right for You?

Pros	Cons
High Purchasing Power: $84,720 goes very far with a $923 average rent.	Limited High-End Specialization: Fewer cutting-edge specialty practices than in major metros.
Stable Job Market: 9% growth and 98 jobs indicate steady demand.	Tourist Season Traffic: Winters see an influx of "snowbirds" and tourists, which can mean busier practices.
Relaxed Lifestyle: Beach, mild winters, short commutes.	Hurricane Risk: The region is susceptible to tropical storms/hurricanes (you'll need renters/home insurance).
Strong Employer Base: Mix of FQHCs, corporate chains, and private practices.	Slower Pace: If you crave a fast-paced, cutting-edge urban environment, Biloxi may feel quiet.
Easy Licensure: Straightforward state process with regional exam options.	Saturation in Core Areas: While growing, competition can be stiff for the best private practice jobs.

Final Recommendation: Biloxi is an excellent choice for Dental Hygienists who value financial stability and work-life balance over the hustle of a major coastal city. It's ideal for those early in their career who want to pay down student loans quickly, or for mid-career professionals seeking a slower pace without sacrificing income. If you're looking for a high-specialty, academic medical center environment, look elsewhere. But for a rewarding, financially sensible career with a great quality of life, Biloxi is a top contender.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a Bachelor's degree to work as a dental hygienist in Biloxi?
A: No. Mississippi (like most states) requires an associate's degree from an accredited hygiene program. However, having a B.S. in Dental Hygiene can open doors to teaching, public health, and management roles and may give you a slight edge in salary negotiation.

Q: What's the typical schedule for a dental hygienist here?
A: Most private practices operate Monday-Friday, 8-5. Corporate chains may offer extended hours (e.g., 7-7) or Saturday shifts. FQHCs often have standard business hours. The flexibility is there, but most full-time roles are traditional weekdays.

Q: How important is Spanish language skills in Biloxi's job market?
A: Very important. The Gulf Coast has a growing Hispanic community, especially in service industries. Being bilingual (English/Spanish) is a significant asset and can make you a more competitive candidate, particularly for FQHC and community-focused practices.

Q: Is there a need for temporary or locum tenens hygienists?
A: Yes, especially during peak tourist season (December-March) and for maternity leaves. Agencies like Advantage Dental Temp Services often have assignments in the Biloxi-Gulfport area. This can be a great way to explore different offices before committing to a full-time role.

Q: What is the malpractice insurance situation?
A: Your employer (practice) should carry malpractice insurance that covers you as an employee. It's a standard cost of doing business for any dental practice. You do not need to purchase an individual policy as a W-2 employee. Always confirm this during your interview.

Sources: Data derived from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for the Biloxi-Gulfport-Pascagoula, MS Metropolitan Statistical Area, the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners (MSBDE), and local real estate market data for rental averages.