Dental Hygienist in Des Moines, IA

The Salary Picture: Where Des Moines Stands

As a Des Moines native who’s watched the dental industry evolve alongside the city’s growth, I can tell you that dental hygiene here offers a solid, middle-class income. It’s not the explosive growth of tech or finance, but it’s stable, in-demand, and pays a living wage that feels comfortable in a city with a low cost of living.

Let’s start with the hard numbers. The median salary for a Dental Hygienist in the Des Moines metro is $85,613/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $41.16/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $87,530/year, but that gap is essentially erased when you factor in Des Moines's cost of living, which is 7.3% lower than the national average. The metro area supports 420 jobs for dental hygienists, and the 10-year job growth projection is a healthy 9%. This means the field is expanding, not shrinking, offering long-term security.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on your experience level. This data is compiled from local job postings, state labor statistics, and conversations with clinic managers across the metro.

Experience Level	Average Annual Salary	Typical Setting
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$72,000 - $78,000	General practice, corporate chains
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$82,000 - $90,000	Specialized clinics, established private practices
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$88,000 - $95,000	Lead hygienist, pediatric/specialty offices
Expert (15+ years)	$92,000 - $100,000+	Education, public health, practice management

When you compare Des Moines to other Iowa cities, the picture becomes clear. Des Moines, as the state capital and largest metro, offers the highest volume of jobs and the most competitive salaries. In Cedar Rapids, you might find a slightly lower median salary (around $83,000), but the number of available positions is significantly lower. In Davenport or Sioux City, the salary range dips into the $78,000-$82,000 range. For a hygienist seeking growth, specialization, and a variety of practice environments—from large hospital systems to boutique cosmetic clinics—Des Moines is the undisputed hub of the state.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary of $85,613 sounds great on paper, but what does it mean for your day-to-day life in Des Moines? Let's break it down with a realistic budget.

Assuming you file as a single filer with no dependents, your estimated take-home pay after federal taxes, state taxes (Iowa's is a progressive system, but let's average it at 5%), and FICA would be approximately $66,500 annually, or about $5,542 per month.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the Des Moines area is $899/month. This is a massive advantage. In cities like Chicago or Denver, you’d be paying 2-3 times that for a similar space.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a dental hygienist earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Net Monthly Income	$5,542	After taxes
Rent (1BR Avg)	-$899	Varies by neighborhood
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water)	-$150	Average for 1BR apartment
Internet/Phone	-$100
Groceries	-$400
Car Payment/Insurance	-$450	Assumes average used car payment
Gas/Maintenance	-$150
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	-$200	Estimate
Retirement Savings (IRA/401k)	-$500	10% pre-tax is ideal
Student Loan Payment	-$300	Varies widely
Discretionary Spending (Dining, Entertainment)	-$1,393	This is your "fun money" and buffer
Total Expenses	$4,542
Remaining Balance	$1,000	For savings, travel, or unexpected costs

With a $1,000 monthly surplus after a comfortable budget, homeownership is absolutely within reach. The median home price in the Des Moines metro is around $275,000. With your savings and a strong credit score, a 5% down payment ($13,750) is achievable within 1-2 years of saving. Monthly mortgage payments, including taxes and insurance, would likely be in the $1,700 - $1,900 range, which is higher than rent but builds equity. Many hygienists I know in the area own homes, often in the neighborhoods listed below.

Where the Jobs Are: Des Moines's Major Employers

The Des Moines dental market is diverse. You’re not limited to one or two large employers; there’s a mix of hospital systems, corporate groups, family-owned practices, and public health clinics.

1. UnityPoint Health - Des Moines: This is the largest healthcare system in the region, with multiple dental clinics attached to their hospitals and family medicine centers. They offer excellent benefits, consistent hours, and opportunities to work with a diverse patient population, including those with complex medical histories. Hiring trends show a steady need for hygienists, especially for their community health clinics.
2. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center: Another major system with an oral surgery and general dentistry department. Their employment is often tied to the hospital setting, which can mean working with special needs patients or those requiring sedation. It’s a great path if you’re interested in the medical side of dentistry.
3. Heartland Dental / Pacific Dental Services: These are large corporate dental groups that have a significant presence in the Des Moines metro (locations in West Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee). They offer standardized training, clear career ladders, and often include benefits like 401(k) matching and CE allowances. The pace can be faster, but it’s a solid entry point for new grads.
4. Downtown Dental (multiple locations): A locally-owned, well-respected group with offices in the East Village, Clive, and Johnston. They are known for a strong community focus and often hire hygienists for long-term positions. They have a reputation for investing in their staff and creating a positive work environment.
5. Polk County Public Health: For those interested in public service, this is a key employer. They run dental clinics for low-income families and seniors, often in partnership with local schools. The pay may be slightly lower than private practice, but the hours are regular, the mission is clear, and the benefits (especially pension) are outstanding.
6. Private Practice Specialists: Don’t overlook independent practices. Offices like Des Moines Periodontics & Implant Center or Valley Dental Group in Clive often seek experienced hygienists. These jobs are competitive but offer a more intimate team setting and often a higher degree of autonomy.

Insider Tip: The best jobs often aren’t advertised on big job boards. Join the Iowa Dental Hygienists’ Association (IDHA). Their quarterly meetings in Des Moines are where you hear about openings first, and you can network directly with office managers and dentists.

Getting Licensed in Iowa

Iowa’s licensure process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Iowa Dental Board oversees all licensing.

Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program (associate or bachelor’s degree).
2. National Boards: Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
3. Clinical/Regional Exam: Pass a state or regional clinical exam (e.g., the ADEX or CDCA/WREB).
4. Nitrous Oxide Monitoring: If you want to administer nitrous oxide, you must complete a state-approved course and be listed on your license.
5. Background Check: Submit to a state and federal background check.

Costs (Approximate):

• Iowa License Application Fee: $125
• NBDHE Exam Fee: $400
• Clinical/Regional Exam Fee: $350 - $500
• Background Check: $50
• Total (excluding education): ~$925 - $1,075

Timeline:
After graduating, plan for 3-6 months to study for and take all exams. Once you have your official transcripts and passing scores, the Iowa Dental Board typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks. You can apply for a temporary license if you have a job offer pending full licensure.

Reciprocity: Iowa has reciprocal agreements with many states. If you’re already licensed elsewhere, check the Iowa Dental Board website for the specific “Licensure by Credentials” application. You’ll still need to verify your education and may need to take the Iowa jurisprudence exam.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Choosing where to live in Des Moines depends on your lifestyle and commute. Here’s a local’s guide to popular areas for hygienists.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
East Village	Urban, trendy, walkable. 5-10 min drive to downtown offices.	$1,100 - $1,300	Young professionals who want nightlife, cafes, and a short commute.
Sherman Hill	Historic, quiet, residential. Easy highway access. 10-15 min to most clinics.	$900 - $1,100	Those who want a neighborhood feel with proximity to downtown.
Windsor Heights	Suburban, family-friendly. Central location. 10-20 min commute anywhere.	$850 - $1,000	Hygienists with families or who want a quiet, established area.
Valley Junction (West Des Moines)	Quaint, small-town feel within the metro. 15-25 min to downtown.	$800 - $950	Those who prefer a slower pace but want access to shopping and restaurants.
Clive	Affluent suburb, newer construction. 15-25 min to downtown.	$950 - $1,150	Professionals seeking modern amenities and top-rated schools.

Personal Insight: If you’re in a corporate practice in West Des Moines, living in Clive or Windsor Heights gives you a short, easy commute against traffic. For hospital-based jobs near MercyOne or UnityPoint downtown, the East Village or Sherman Hill are unbeatable for walking to work or taking a quick bike ride.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in dental hygiene in Des Moines isn’t just about cleaning teeth for 30 years. There are clear paths for advancement if you’re proactive.

Specialty Premiums: While the median is $85,613, specialists can earn more.

• Pediatric Hygienists: Can command a 5-10% premium due to the specialized skills needed for behavioral management.
• Periodontal/Implant Hygienists: Working in a specialist’s office (periodontist or oral surgeon) often comes with a higher base salary ($90,000+) due to the complexity of care.
• Public Health/Corporate: These roles may start at the median but offer exceptional benefits (pension, loan forgiveness programs) that add significant long-term value.

Advancement Paths:

1. Lead Hygienist: Overseeing other hygienists, ordering supplies, training new hires. May come with a $5,000-$10,000 raise.
2. Clinical Hygiene Instructor: Local programs like those at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) often hire experienced hygienists as part-time or full-time instructors. Pay is competitive, and the schedule is predictable.
3. Practice Management: With additional business coursework, you can move into office management or practice administration, a role that can pay $100,000+.
4. Dental Sales/Education: Companies like Dentsply Sirona or local dental supply houses hire hygienists for sales and clinical education roles, which can be very lucrative.

10-Year Outlook: The 9% job growth is a strong signal. An aging population and an increased focus on preventative care mean the demand for hygienists will remain robust. The key to long-term earning power is continuous education. Iowa requires 25 hours of CE every two years to maintain your license. Specializing in areas like laser dentistry, sleep apnea, or oral cancer screening will keep your skills in high demand.

The Verdict: Is Des Moines Right for You?

Pros	Cons
High purchasing power: A $85,613 salary goes far with an $899 average rent.	Winters can be harsh: If you hate cold and snow, this is a real consideration.
Stable job market: 420 jobs and 9% growth provide security.	Smaller metro: Fewer specialty niches compared to major coastal cities.
Diverse practice settings: Hospitals, corporate, private, public health.	Slower pace of life: If you crave constant big-city energy, it might feel quiet.
Easy commutes: You can live and work almost anywhere in the metro without a long drive.	State-specific licensing: You must navigate Iowa’s specific requirements if moving from another state.
Strong community: The dental community is tight-knit and supportive.	Nightlife is modest: Great bars and restaurants, but not the endless options of a mega-city.

Final Recommendation: Des Moines is an excellent choice for dental hygienists at all career stages. It’s particularly ideal for those who value work-life balance, financial stability, and a sense of community over the prestige and high costs of a coastal metropolis. If you’re a new grad looking to build a career, or an experienced hygienist seeking a change with a lower cost of living, Des Moines should be at the top of your list. The numbers support it, and the quality of life is undeniable.

FAQs

Q: I’m moving from another state. How long does licensure by reciprocity take?
A: If you hold an active, unencumbered license from a state with similar standards, the process can be as quick as 8-10 weeks. You’ll need to submit your application, verification of your license from your current state, and proof of continuing education. The Iowa Dental Board website has a clear checklist for "Licensure by Credentials."

Q: Are there part-time or flexible schedule opportunities?
A: Absolutely. Many private practices and even corporate offices offer four-day workweeks (e.g., 4x10 hour days) or part-time schedules. This is a common perk in the area and is a significant factor in attracting hygienists. It’s a standard question to ask during interviews.

Q: What’s the demand for new graduates in Des Moines?
A: The demand is good, but competitive. With 9% growth, there is room. New grads should focus on the corporate chains (Heartland, Pacific) and public health roles, as they have more structured training programs. Networking through your school and the IDHA is critical to landing that first job.

Q: Do I need my own malpractice insurance?
A: Typically, no. Most employers in Iowa, especially larger systems and corporate groups, provide malpractice coverage as part of your employment. Always confirm this during your job offer stage, but it’s rare for a hygienist to need their own policy in this market.

Q: How is the market for hygienists wanting to specialize?
A: The market for specialists is growing. To move into a specialty (perio, pediatric, etc.), it’s best to start in a general practice and seek out continuing education in that area. Many specialists in Des Moines prefer to hire hygienists with 2-3 years of general experience first. Your best bet is to take a course in your desired specialty and start networking with those offices.