Dental Hygienist in Great Falls, MT

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Dental Hygienists considering a move to Great Falls, Montana.

The Salary Picture: Where Great Falls Stands

As a career analyst with a deep understanding of the Montana job market, I can tell you that Great Falls offers a compelling financial proposition for dental hygienists, especially when you factor in the cost of living. The median salary for a dental hygienist in the metro area is $85,586/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $41.15/hour. While this is slightly below the national average of $87,530/year, it’s crucial to contextualize this figure within Montana’s economic landscape.

Let’s break down salary expectations by experience level. These are typical ranges I've observed based on local job postings and conversations with hiring managers in the region.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Context in Great Falls
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$68,000 - $75,000	Typically starts in larger corporate chains or community health centers. Focus is on speed and efficiency.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$82,000 - $90,000	The sweet spot for most hygienists. You'll find opportunities in private practices and specialty clinics.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$91,000 - $98,000	Often involves mentoring, managing hygiene departments, or working in specialized practices like periodontics.
Expert/Management (15+ years)	$99,000+	Roles in education, public health administration, or as a lead hygienist in a large multi-doctor practice.

When you compare Great Falls to other Montana cities, the numbers tell an interesting story. While Billings and Missoula have marginally higher median salaries (closer to $87,000-$88,000), their cost of living is also significantly higher. Bozeman, for instance, is an outlier with a median salary around $89,000, but the rental market is notoriously expensive. Great Falls strikes a balance, offering a solid income against a very manageable cost of living.

Insider Tip: The 9% 10-year job growth projection for the metro area is a strong indicator of stability. With only 120 jobs in the metro, this isn't a high-turnover field. You're looking at a tight-knit professional community where reputation matters. A good reference from a local dentist can open doors faster than any online application.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to brass tacks. A median salary of $85,586 is one thing; your take-home pay is another. For a single filer in Montana (considering federal and state taxes, plus FICA), your monthly take-home pay would be approximately $5,100 - $5,300. We'll use $5,200 for our budget.

Monthly Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$5,200	After taxes (federal, MT state, FICA)
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$745	City average; varies by neighborhood
Utilities	$150	Electricity, gas, water, internet
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Assumes a modest car payment; insurance is lower in MT
Groceries	$350	For one person
Health Insurance	$200	Varies by employer, but a reasonable estimate
Misc. (Out, Fun, Save)	$855	Discretionary spending or savings
Remaining	$1,500	This is your buffer for savings, debt, or home ownership.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and this is where Great Falls truly shines for a single-income professional. The Montana housing market is competitive, but Great Falls is more accessible than the resort towns. The median home price in Great Falls is roughly $285,000. With your $1,500/month discretionary budget, you could comfortably save for a down payment in 2-3 years. A mortgage on a $285,000 home (with 10% down) would be around $1,600/month, including taxes and insurance. This is feasible on a hygienist's salary, especially if you have a dual-income household.

Where the Jobs Are: Great Falls's Major Employers

The dental market in Great Falls is stable, with a mix of private practices, corporate chains, and public health institutions. The 120 jobs in the metro are concentrated in these key employers:

1. Great Falls Public Health (GFPH): Located in the Civic Center area, GFPH is a major employer for dental hygienists working in public health and school-based programs. They offer competitive state benefits and a focus on community outreach. Hiring trends show a steady need for hygienists to serve underinserved populations.
2. Benefis Health System: While primarily a hospital, Benefis has a robust dental clinic and partners with local practices. They often hire hygienists for their specialty clinics and community health initiatives. Their main campus is on 10th Avenue South.
3. Aspen Dental: This corporate chain has a presence in Great Falls (on 10th Avenue South) and is often the first stop for new grads. They offer structured training and a steady stream of patients. Turnover can be higher here, making it a good place to gain experience quickly.
4. Private Practices (Multiple): The heart of the dental community lies in private practices scattered across the city. Notable clusters are in the Sunrise Village shopping area and along 10th Avenue South. Practices like Great Falls Dental Care and Malmstrom Dental are well-established. Hiring is less frequent but highly competitive when a position opens.
5. Indian Health Service (IHS) - Blackfeet Community Hospital: While not in Great Falls proper (it's about an hour south in Browning), it's a major regional employer offering loan repayment programs and unique public health experience. Commuting from Great Falls is common for those seeking federal benefits.
6. Montana State University - Great Falls College: They have a dental hygiene program and occasionally hire clinical instructors or adjuncts. This is a great path for hygienists looking to transition into education.

Hiring Trend Insight: The market is not "high turnover." Most hygienists stay in their roles for years. This means that networking is critical. Join the Montana Dental Hygienists' Association (MDHA) and attend local dental events. The best jobs are often filled through referrals before they're ever posted online.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Montana Board of Dentistry is the governing body.

1. Education: You must graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited dental hygiene program.
2. National Board Exam (NBDHE): Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
3. Regional Clinical Exam: Pass a regional clinical exam, such as the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB), Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS), or Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA). Most schools in Montana use WREB.
4. State-Specific Requirements: Montana requires a jurisprudence exam (on state laws and rules) and a background check.
5. Costs: Budget for the following:
   • License Application Fee: $150
   • Jurisprudence Exam Fee: $50
   • Background Check: $50
   • Total Initial Licensure Cost: ~$250 (excluding exam fees, which are paid to national/regional boards).

Timeline: If you're graduating this spring, you can start the application process immediately. It typically takes 4-6 weeks for the board to process a complete application after you pass all exams. You can apply for a temporary license to start working sooner under supervision.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Great Falls is a compact city, and commute times are minimal (typically 10-20 minutes). Your choice of neighborhood will depend on lifestyle.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Why It's a Fit
Sunrise Village	Suburban, family-friendly. Close to clinics on 10th Ave.	$800 - $950	Ideal for those wanting a quiet, modern apartment near everything.
Downtown	Urban, walkable, historic charm. Near GFPH.	$700 - $850	For young professionals who want bars, cafes, and the riverfront park within walking distance.
West Side	Established, quiet, residential.	$650 - $775	More affordable, with older charm. A short drive to all major employers.
Hillcrest	Upscale, newer homes and apartments.	$900 - $1,100	If you want a more modern living space and don't mind a slightly longer drive (15-20 min).
Malmstrom AFB Area	Sprawling, convenient to base (if relevant).	$750 - $850	Good value, with many well-maintained apartments. Easy access to the north side of the city.

Insider Tip: The best way to find a rental is through Facebook Marketplace and local real estate agencies, as many landlords don't list on major sites. Be prepared to apply quickly, as the rental market, while affordable, moves fast.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A dental hygienist in Great Falls has several long-term paths beyond the traditional chairside role.

• Specialty Premiums: While not as high as in major metros, you can command a 5-10% salary premium by specializing. Periodontal and orthodontic practices are the most common. Gaining certification in laser dentistry or local anesthesia can also boost your value.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Lead Hygienist: Oversee the hygiene department in a large practice.
  2. Public Health Administrator: Move into management at GFPH or a non-profit.
  3. Educator: Teach at MSU-Great Falls College of Technology.
  4. Corporate Sales/Training: Work for a dental supply company (e.g., Patterson, Henry Schein) covering the Montana territory.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 9% job growth, the demand will remain steady. The aging population and increased focus on oral health's link to systemic disease will keep hygienists essential. The key to growth here is flexibility. Those willing to work in public health or take on mentoring roles will see the most rapid advancement.

The Verdict: Is Great Falls Right for You?

Great Falls is a hidden gem for dental hygienists who value financial stability, a low cost of living, and a tight-knit community over the bustle of a large city.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Housing: Your salary goes much further here.	Limited Job Market: Only 120 jobs, so openings are rare.
Low Cost of Living: Index of 92.6 vs. US Avg 100.	Remote Location: Far from major cultural hubs (Denver, Seattle).
Stable Job Growth: 9% is a healthy projection.	Harsh Winters: Snow and cold are a reality from Nov-Mar.
Outdoor Access: Immediate access to hiking, fishing, and skiing.	Limited Specialty Opportunities: Fewer high-end specialty practices.
Tight-Knit Community: Easy to network and build a reputation.	Smaller Professional Network: Fewer peers for collaboration.

Final Recommendation: Great Falls is an excellent choice for a dental hygienist who is early to mid-career and wants to build wealth quickly. It's ideal for someone who enjoys outdoor activities and doesn't need big-city amenities. If you're a new grad, consider starting at a corporate chain to gain experience while learning the local market. For experienced hygienists, Great Falls offers a chance to slow down, buy a home, and enjoy a high quality of life without financial stress. It may not be the most dynamic career launchpad, but it's a fantastic place for a stable, fulfilling, and financially sound career.

FAQs

Q: Is the job market really that small?
A: Yes. With only 120 jobs, it's a "who you know" market. This isn't a place for frequent job-hopping. The upside is that once you're in, positions are stable.

Q: What's the best way to find a job before moving?
A: Use LinkedIn to connect with office managers and dentists at local practices. Send a direct, professional inquiry. Also, check the Montana Dental Association job board. Being willing to interview via video while out-of-state can give you an edge.

Q: How do winters affect commuting?
A: Great Falls is well-equipped for winter. Commutes are short (under 20 minutes), and roads are plowed quickly. Invest in a good set of winter tires and a remote start for your car. It's a non-issue for most residents.

Q: Are there opportunities for part-time work?
A: Yes, especially in private practices. Many hygienists work 3-4 days a week. It's a common arrangement that allows for a great work-life balance, which is a major draw of living in Montana.

Q: What's the professional community like?
A: It's very supportive. The Montana Dental Hygienists' Association is active, and local study groups are common. You'll likely run into colleagues at the grocery store. It's a collaborative environment, not a competitive one.

Sources: Salary data from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for Great Falls, MT; job growth projections from Montana Department of Labor & Industry; cost of living data from BestPlaces.net; rental data from local rental listings and Zillow; licensing information from the Montana Board of Dentistry.