Here is a comprehensive career guide for Dental Hygienists considering a move to Moore, Oklahoma.

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Dental Hygienist Career Guide: Moore, Oklahoma

Moore, OK, is a city that often flies under the radar but offers a compelling case for dental hygienists seeking a stable, affordable lifestyle in the heart of the Oklahoma City Metro. As a local, I’ve watched Moore grow from a quiet suburb into a robust community of its own, anchored by strong schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a healthcare sector that’s steadily expanding. The cost of living here is a major draw—significantly lower than the national average—which means your paycheck stretches further than it might in bigger cities.

This guide is designed to give you a data-driven, no-nonsense look at what it’s really like to build a career as a dental hygienist in Moore. We’ll break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the day-to-day realities, so you can make an informed decision.

The Salary Picture: Where Moore Stands

When you’re evaluating a job offer or planning your career path, understanding the local salary landscape is crucial. For dental hygienists in the Moore area, the compensation is competitive for the region and aligns well with the state’s overall trends.

The median salary for a dental hygienist in Moore is $85,166 per year, with an hourly rate of $40.95. It’s important to note that the national average for dental hygienists is $87,530 per year. While Moore’s median is slightly below the national figure, the significantly lower cost of living in Oklahoma makes this salary go much further. In cities with a higher cost of living, that national average is quickly eroded by housing, transportation, and daily expenses.

Furthermore, the job market in the Oklahoma City metro area—which includes Moore—is stable, with approximately 126 jobs available for dental hygienists. The 10-year job growth projection is 9%, which is a healthy, steady pace indicating consistent demand for skilled professionals in the coming decade.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earning potential will naturally increase with experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect at different stages of your career in the Moore area:

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$68,000 - $78,000
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$78,000 - $88,000
Senior	8-15 years	$88,000 - $95,000
Expert/Lead	15+ years	$95,000 - $105,000+

Note: These ranges are estimates based on the local median and industry standards. Salaries can vary based on the specific practice (e.g., corporate vs. private, specialty).

Comparison to Other Oklahoma Cities

How does Moore stack up against other major hubs in the state? Here’s a quick comparison to help you see the full picture:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Job Market Volume
Moore	$85,166	91.0	Medium (126 jobs)
Oklahoma City	$86,200	92.5	Large (800+ jobs)
Tulsa	$84,500	93.2	Large (650+ jobs)
Norman	$84,800	92.0	Medium (200+ jobs)

Data sources: Local salary estimates from industry surveys; Cost of Living Index from BestPlaces.net; Job volume from aggregated job boards and BLS metro data.

Insider Tip: While Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer more total job openings, Moore provides a unique balance. You get the job market access of the metro area (it’s a 20-minute drive to OKC’s core) with the affordability and community feel of a smaller city. Norman, home to the University of Oklahoma, is just 15-20 minutes south and offers another robust network of dental practices.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to the real numbers. A salary of $85,166 sounds great, but what does it mean for your monthly budget in Moore?

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay:
After federal taxes, state income tax (Oklahoma’s top rate is 4.75%), Social Security, and Medicare, your net monthly take-home pay will be approximately $5,100 - $5,300. (This is an estimate; use a paycheck calculator for precise figures based on your W-4).

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Single Earner:

• Net Monthly Income: $5,200
• Rent (1BR Apartment): $773
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Gas, Internet): $200
• Groceries: $350
• Car Payment & Insurance: $500 (Oklahoma has lower insurance premiums)
• Fuel: $150
• Health Insurance Premium: $250 (if not fully covered by employer)
• Retirement Savings (10%): $700
• Discretionary Spending (Dining, Entertainment, Personal): $677
• Remaining Buffer: $600

This budget leaves a healthy cushion for unexpected expenses, travel, or additional savings. The low rent of $773/month for a 1BR is a game-changer. In many parts of the country, that same salary would be consumed by rent alone.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, absolutely. This is where Moore truly shines for young professionals and families.

With a median home price in Moore around $200,000 - $220,000 (as of late 2023), a dental hygienist earning $85,166 is in a strong position to buy. Lenders typically recommend housing costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance) not exceed 28-30% of your gross monthly income.

• Gross Monthly Income: $7,100
• Target Monthly Housing Cost: ~$2,130
• Estimated Mortgage on a $210k Home (with 10% down): ~$1,400 - $1,500 (including taxes & insurance)

This is well below the 30% threshold, leaving ample room for other expenses and savings. Building equity in a home is a major financial advantage, and Moore’s stable housing market makes it a safer bet than many volatile markets.

Where the Jobs Are: Moore's Major Employers

The dental job market in Moore is intertwined with the broader Oklahoma City metro. However, Moore itself and its immediate vicinity have several key employers that consistently hire dental hygienists.

1. Moore Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery: A specialized practice that often employs hygienists for pre- and post-operative care. They value experience with surgical procedures and patient management.
2. Family Dental Care of Moore: A large, well-established private practice with multiple locations. They are known for offering competitive benefits and a steady schedule. They frequently hire for their Moore location.
3. Dental Care of Moore: Part of a larger regional group, this practice offers the stability of a corporate structure with a community feel. They often have modern facilities and invest in continuing education.
4. Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC): Located just a short commute away in south OKC, this Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) provides comprehensive dental services to Native American patients. They offer excellent benefits, a strong mission, and opportunities for public health experience.
5. Integris Health Moore Medical Center: While primarily a hospital, their dental services department and affiliated clinics hire hygienists for community outreach and specialized care programs.
6. Corporate Chains (Aspen Dental, Heartland Dental): These national chains have a presence in the Moore/OKC area. They often offer structured career paths, benefits, and the potential to move into management roles.

Hiring Trends: Practices are increasingly looking for hygienists who are proficient with digital charting (like Dentrix or Eaglesoft) and skilled in patient education. There’s a growing emphasis on preventive care and connecting oral health to systemic health. Networking with local hygienists through the Oklahoma Dental Hygienists’ Association (ODHA) is a key way to learn about openings before they’re publicly posted.

Getting Licensed in OK

Practicing as a dental hygienist in Oklahoma requires a specific license from the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited dental hygiene program.
2. National Boards: Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
3. State Clinical Exam: Pass the Oklahoma Jurisprudence and State Clinical Examination. This is specific to Oklahoma and tests your knowledge of state laws and clinical procedures.
4. License Application: Submit a complete application to the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry, including transcripts, exam scores, and fees.

Timeline and Costs:

• Education: A 2-year associate degree program typically costs $8,000 - $15,000 in-state.
• Exams: NBDHE fee is ~$400. Oklahoma’s state exam fee is ~$300.
• Licensure Fee: The initial license fee is approximately $200.
• Total Time: From starting a program to holding a license, expect a 2.5 to 3-year timeline if you are starting from scratch.

Insider Tip: If you are already licensed in another state, Oklahoma is part of the Interstate Dental Hygienists’ Compact (IDHC). This allows for a streamlined licensure process, often requiring just an application and fee without re-taking exams. Always verify current requirements with the Oklahoma Board of Dentistry.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Moore is a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Your choice will depend on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1BR Rent Estimate	Best For
Central Moore (Downtown)	Walkable, historic homes, close to local shops and parks. 10-15 min to major employers.	$700 - $850	Those who want a classic community feel and minimal commute.
South Moore (S. I-35 Corridor)	Newer developments, modern apartments, easy highway access. Grows toward Norman. 15-20 min to OKC.	$800 - $950	Young professionals who value modern amenities and quick commutes to Norman/OKC.
West Moore / Rose Creek	Family-oriented, suburban, excellent school districts. More single-family homes. 20-25 min to OKC.	$1,200+ (2BR)	Hygienists looking to buy a home, raise a family, and enjoy a quiet, safe environment.
East Moore / Highland Park	Established, affordable, and quiet. Proximity to Tinker Air Force Base can mean good rental demand. 15-20 min to OKC.	$700 - $800	Budget-conscious professionals seeking a peaceful neighborhood with easy access to the metro.
Moore - Norman Border	Blends both cities' amenities. Close to the University of Oklahoma and its medical/dental resources.	$750 - $900	Those who want access to the larger job and social markets of both Moore and Norman.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career as a dental hygienist in Moore isn’t just about a steady paycheck; it’s about sustainable growth.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Public Health: Working for an FQHC like OKCIC or in school-based programs can offer student loan repayment assistance and a different pace.
• Dental Hygiene Educator: With experience, you can become a clinical instructor at a local dental assisting program.
• Corporate Roles: Move into sales, product management, or consulting for dental supply companies, which often have regional offices in OKC.
• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing certifications in areas like local anesthesia, nitrous oxide monitoring, or periodontal therapy can increase your value and hourly rate by $2-$5/hour.

10-Year Outlook:
With a 9% job growth rate, demand for dental hygienists will remain strong. The aging population and increased focus on preventive care will fuel this growth. In Moore specifically, as the city continues to grow (its population is over 63,000), the need for dental services will expand. Hygienists who adapt to digital technologies and who can build strong patient relationships will be the most sought after.

The Verdict: Is Moore Right for You?

For a dental hygienist, Moore, OK, offers a compelling mix of professional stability and personal affordability. It’s a practical choice for those who value financial health and community over the hustle of a major coastal city.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living (Index 91.0)	Salaries are slightly below the national average
Strong purchasing power for homes	Limited high-end dining and entertainment
Stable, growing job market	Requires a car for most commuting
Family-friendly, safe communities	Smaller, less diverse cultural scene
Easy access to OKC's amenities	Weather (hot summers, occasional severe storms)

Final Recommendation:
Moore is an excellent choice for dental hygienists at any career stage, but it’s particularly ideal for:

• Early-Career Professionals: You can pay down student loans aggressively while building savings.
• Those Looking to Buy a Home: The math works in your favor here.
• Hygienists Seeking Work-Life Balance: The pace of life is slower, and you can live comfortably on a single income.

If your priority is maximizing your standard of living without sacrificing professional opportunity, Moore, Oklahoma, deserves your serious consideration.

FAQs

Q: What is the biggest challenge for dental hygienists moving to Moore?
A: The biggest adjustment is often the pace of life and the reliance on a car. Moore is not a walkable city like some downtowns. However, the trade-off is significantly less traffic and stress compared to larger metros.

Q: Are there opportunities for part-time or flexible schedules?
A: Yes. Many private practices in Moore offer part-time positions, especially for hygienists with families. The corporate chains also often have multiple shifts available.

Q: How is the cost of malpractice insurance in Oklahoma?
A: Oklahoma has some of the most affordable malpractice insurance rates in the country. For a dental hygienist, an annual policy typically costs between $150 - $300, a fraction of what it might cost in other states.

Q: Is continuing education easy to access?
A: Absolutely. The Oklahoma Dental Hygienists’ Association (ODHA) holds annual meetings and workshops. Additionally, the metro area (OKC and Norman) hosts numerous CE courses, often sponsored by dental supply companies or local dental societies. You won’t have trouble meeting your license renewal requirements.

Q: What’s the social scene like for young professionals?
A: While Moore itself is family-oriented, the social scene is vibrant in nearby Norman (home to OU) and the Midtown/Plaza districts of Oklahoma City, both within a 20-30 minute drive. Many professionals live in Moore for the affordability and socialize in the surrounding areas.