Are you searching for dental hygienist jobs in Ireland? Dental hygienists play a crucial role in the nation’s oral health, providing preventive care, patient education, and essential support to dental teams across Dublin, Cork, Galway, and beyond. Dentistry Jobs Ireland connects qualified hygienists and graduates with top employers, helping you secure rewarding roles and progress your career in one of healthcare’s most in-demand professions.
What is a Dental Hygienist?
Dental hygienists are licensed professionals who specialise in the prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Their work focuses on cleaning teeth, scaling and polishing, applying preventive treatments, and educating patients about oral hygiene. Dental hygienists are a vital part of every dental practice, working alongside dentists, dental nurses, and specialists to ensure the highest standards of care.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Curious about what does a dental hygienist do? Their main responsibilities include:
- Conducting dental cleanings (removing plaque, tartar, and stains)
- Performing periodontal therapy and maintenance
- Applying fluoride varnishes and sealants
- Taking dental x-rays and impressions
- Educating patients about proper brushing, flossing, and oral health routines
- Assessing oral conditions and referring patients for specialist treatment when needed
- Supporting dentists during examinations and complex procedures
- Maintaining accurate records and patient charts
Dental hygienists often see patients independently, making their role highly autonomous and rewarding.
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Ireland
Wondering how to become a dental hygienist or how to become a dental hygienist in Ireland? You’ll need to:
- Complete an approved dental hygiene qualification (such as a Level 7 or 8 degree or diploma from a recognised Irish or EU university or college)
- Register with the Dental Council of Ireland as a dental hygienist
- Maintain your skills with continuing education (CE) credits as required by the Dental Council
- Apply for jobs via agencies like Dentistry Jobs Ireland or directly with practices
If you are an overseas candidate, Dentistry Jobs Ireland can guide you through the recognition and registration process and support you with relocation advice.
What to Study to Become a Dental Hygienist
What to study to become a dental hygienist? In Ireland, you should choose a recognised dental hygiene course. University College Cork (UCC) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) offer leading programs. Subjects include anatomy, oral health, periodontology, dental radiography, pharmacology, and clinical skills. You’ll complete clinical placements in dental hospitals and private clinics to gain hands-on experience.
How Many CE Credits Does a Dental Hygienist Need?
To maintain registration with the Dental Council, dental hygienists must complete regular Continuing Education (CE) credits. Typically, you’ll need 20–30 hours of verifiable CPD (continuing professional development) annually. These courses keep you up to date with best practice, new techniques, infection control, and changes in Irish dental regulations.
How Much Does a Dental Hygienist Make in Ireland?
How much does a dental hygienist make? Dental hygienist salaries in Ireland are some of the highest in the health sector, reflecting the level of skill and demand:
- Newly qualified dental hygienist: €38,000–€45,000 per year
- Experienced hygienist (5+ years): €48,000–€62,000 per year
- Locum or mobile hygienists may earn higher hourly rates or premium pay for flexible work
- Many jobs include CPD funding, pension, and flexible or part-time hours
Salary varies depending on location (with Dublin, Cork, and Galway typically offering the best packages) and the type of clinic or dental group.
Why Do You Want to Be a Dental Hygienist?
Dental hygienists are passionate about improving lives through oral health. If you enjoy patient care, education, and working as part of a multidisciplinary team, it’s a deeply rewarding career. You’ll develop long-term relationships with patients and see the impact of your work on their confidence and wellbeing.
Typical reasons people give for wanting to become a dental hygienist include:
- Helping people prevent disease and maintain healthy smiles
- Enjoying a varied and flexible workday
- Appreciating autonomy and professional respect
- Being at the cutting edge of preventive health in Ireland
Types of Dental Hygienist Jobs in Ireland
- General practice dental hygienist – seeing adult and child patients for check-ups, scaling, and education
- Specialist clinic hygienist – working in periodontics, paediatrics, or orthodontics
- Locum dental hygienist – flexible roles covering sick leave or maternity cover across multiple clinics
- Mobile dental hygienist – providing care in schools, nursing homes, or rural communities
- Clinical tutor – teaching in university dental schools
No matter your level of experience, Dentistry Jobs Ireland can help you find the role that matches your career aspirations.
Dental Hygienist Jobs Ireland: Testimonial
“After moving from Spain to Ireland, I was worried about registration and finding work as a dental hygienist. Dentistry Jobs Ireland helped with every step, from paperwork to interview prep, and I now have a great job in Galway with a fantastic team.”
– Lucia, Dental Hygienist, Galway
Dental Hygienist Jobs: Video
Map: Dental Hygienist Jobs Across Ireland
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1gWz8AsF1NqP3R_yQn0BMnkXIG4uRCuA&ehbc=2E312F
How Dentistry Jobs Ireland Helps Dental Hygienists
Dentistry Jobs Ireland supports dental hygienists with:
- Access to the latest dental hygienist jobs in Ireland – including Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and more
- Expert advice on registration, CE credits, and moving to Ireland
- CV support and Irish-standard interview coaching
- Personalised matching with clinics and practices that fit your values
- Replacement guarantees and ongoing career support
Our mission is to help you find a job that lets you thrive, grow, and make a difference every day.
Dental Hygienist Interview Questions & Sample Answers
- Why do you want to be a dental hygienist?
“I’m passionate about helping people prevent dental disease and love educating patients about their health.” - What are the most important skills for a dental hygienist?
“Attention to detail, empathy, and excellent communication with patients of all ages.” - How do you handle nervous patients?
“I explain every step, use gentle techniques, and make sure patients feel comfortable and heard.” - How do you keep your knowledge up to date?
“I regularly attend CE courses and stay informed on the latest research and best practices.” - What to study to become a dental hygienist?
“A recognised dental hygiene qualification from a university or college in Ireland or the EU.”
Apply Now for Dental Hygienist Jobs in Ireland
Ready to advance your dental hygiene career? See the latest dental hygienist jobs or register today for expert support and tailored job matching.
For confidential advice, registration help, or CV and interview support, contact us at any time.
Contact & Socials
- Website: https://dentistryjobs.ie/
- Phone: +353 21 601 0016
- Email: info@dentistryjobs.ie
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