What is the average Dental Hygenist salary for San Diego, CA?
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As of May 01, 2026, the average Dental Hygenist salary in San Diego, CA is $75,936. The chart below represents localized salaries for some of our most popular Dental Hygenist job titles in San Diego, CA. Salaries can vary greatly depending on numerous factors, including position, location, years of experience, and level of education. Salary.com’s team of Certified Compensation Professionals analyzed survey data collected from thousands of HR departments at companies of all sizes and industries to compile a range of salaries for various Dental Hygenist job titles in San Diego, CA. Apply your personal criteria to one of the job titles below to get your personalized salary estimate.
Dental Hygenist Salaries in San Diego, CA
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
| Dental Hygienist | $93,324 | $44.87 | San Diego, CA | May 01, 2026 |
| Dental Assistant | $53,837 | $25.88 | San Diego, CA | May 01, 2026 |
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Under the direct supervision of a dentist, cleans calcareous deposits, accretions, and stains from teeth and beneath margins of gums using dental instruments. Performs routine examination and assessment of dental health. Feels lymph nodes under patient's chin to detect swelling or tenderness that could indicate presence of oral cancer. Feels and visually examines gums for sores and signs of disease. Provides instruction, guidance, and coaching to patients about methods to improve dental health. May take Radiographs or x-rays. Typically requires an associate degree in dental hygiene. Meets licensing requirements as a dental hygienist for the state. Radiography/x-ray certification per state guidelines. Basic Life Support certification (BLS.) Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Independently performs a wide range of complex duties under general guidance from supervisors. Has gained full proficiency in a broad range of activities related to the job. Typically requires 5-7 years of related experience. Dental Hygienist Salaries in San Diego, CAAlternate Job Titles:Dental Therapist, Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), Dental HygienistCategory : Healthcare - Technicians
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Assists with dental surgical and other procedures under the direct supervision of a dentist. Prepares patient and arranges instruments and supplies used for procedures. Hands instruments to the dentist and helps during treatment. Ensures all instruments are sterile and follows infection control protocols. Records treatment notes and updates patient records. May take and process x-rays. May require an associate degree in dental assisting or equivalent. Has Basic Life Support (BLS) and depending on state, may have licensing requirement. Typically reports to a dentist. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience. Dental Assistant Salaries in San Diego, CAAlternate Job Titles:Dental Assistant (Certified), Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), Dental AssistantCategory : Healthcare - Technicians