Dental Assistant License in Minnesota

Minnesota requires dental hygienist applicants to graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the NBDHE plus a clinical examination. The Minnesota Board of Dentistry oversees dental hygienist licensing. CE is required for biennial renewal, with a minimum of 25 credit hours per renewal period. Minnesota is notable for being the first state to authorize dental therapists in 2009, and this progressive approach to workforce innovation extends to dental hygiene practice as well. The state allows dental hygienists to practice in collaborative agreements with dentists for certain public health settings, expanding access to preventive services. Minnesota has CODA-accredited programs at the University of Minnesota, Normandale Community College, Minnesota State University Mankato, Century College, and several other institutions. The Twin Cities metro area offers a competitive job market with above-average compensation, while greater Minnesota, particularly the Iron Range, western prairies, and southern counties, faces dental professional shortages that create strong demand for dental hygienists. The state's commitment to oral health innovation has made it a national leader in expanding access through diverse dental workforce models.