Dental Hygienists License in Mississippi

Mississippi requires dental hygienist applicants to graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the NBDHE plus a clinical examination. The Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners oversees dental hygienist licensing. CE is required for annual license renewal, typically 12 hours per year. Mississippi has historically accepted the Southern Regional Testing Agency (SRTA) clinical examination, consistent with southeastern states. The state's dental hygiene scope of practice includes prophylaxis, scaling, sealant application, fluoride treatment, and patient education under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. Mississippi has dental hygiene programs at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Pearl River Community College, and Meridian Community College. Mississippi ranks among the states with the most significant oral health disparities, with high rates of dental disease particularly in the Mississippi Delta region and rural southern counties. This creates strong demand for dental hygienists, though workforce recruitment to these areas remains challenging due to economic and infrastructure factors. The state has explored telehealth and community-based models to extend the reach of dental hygienists in underserved parishes.