Are dental hygienists required to be licensed in Florida?

• A. No; licensing is optional
• B. No; licensure is only for dentists
• C. Yes; dental hygienists must be licensed and practice under the Board's rules and supervision requirements.
• D. Yes; dental hygienists are not required to be licensed in Florida.

Answer: (C)

In Florida, licensure is required to practice dental hygiene and you must work under the supervision rules set by the Florida Board of Dentistry. The state's Dental Practice Act outlines who may provide dental hygiene services and under what level of supervision a licensed dentist must oversee those services. To become licensed, a dental hygienist typically completes an accredited program and passes the approved exams, with ongoing requirements to maintain the license, including continuing education. Because of these standards, practicing without a license isn’t allowed, and supervision by a licensed dentist is a core part of how dental hygiene care is delivered.