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Assistant Hygienist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Dental Hygienist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$36.50 - $48/hr

At the discretion of the Director of Dental Hygiene, the DHF will also assist with student evaluations, counseling, and assessment. This role also assists in preparation and selection of course ...

Dental Hygienist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$36.50 - $48/hr

At the discretion of the Director of Dental Hygiene, the DHF will also assist with student evaluations, counseling, and assessment. This role also assists in preparation and selection of course ...

Dental Hygienist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$36.50 - $48/hr

At the discretion of the Director of Dental Hygiene, the DHF will also assist with student evaluations, counseling, and assessment. This role also assists in preparation and selection of course ...

Dental Hygienist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$110K - $115K/yr

The Dental Hygienist provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services to ... - Assist with dental and medical emergencies within the scope of practice. Patient Care and ...

Dental Hygienist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$110K - $115K/yr

The Dental Hygienist provides comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental hygiene services to ... - Assist with dental and medical emergencies within the scope of practice. Patient Care and ...

Hygiene Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Responsibilities Skills/ Abilities • Provide exceptional customer service, with excellent chair-side manner, while demonstrating teamwork • Assist the doctor and/or hygienist(s), with dental ...

Hygiene Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Responsibilities Skills/ Abilities Provide exceptional customer service, with excellent chair-side manner, while demonstrating teamwork Assist the doctor and/or hygienist(s), with dental procedures ...

Hygiene Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Responsibilities Skills/ Abilities · Provide exceptional customer service, with excellent chair-side manner, while demonstrating teamwork · Assist the doctor and/or hygienist(s), with dental ...

Hygiene Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Skills/ Abilities · Provide exceptional customer service, with excellent chair-side manner, while demonstrating teamwork · Assist the doctor and/or hygienist(s), with dental procedures maintain ...

Hygiene Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Skills/ Abilities · Provide exceptional customer service, with excellent chair-side manner, while demonstrating teamwork · Assist the doctor and/or hygienist(s), with dental procedures maintain ...

This is a modern office with a wonderful staff of assistants, hygienists and front desk. It is also a FFS and PPO office, with no HMOs and no Medicaid. They are seeking a full time dentist ideally.

Dental Assistant

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Dental Assistant supports dental care delivery by preparing treatment rooms, patients ... Instructs patients on oral hygiene * Charts cavities and teeth with doctor * Sterilizes instruments

Dental Assistant

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Dental Assistant supports dental care delivery by preparing treatment rooms, patients ... Instructs patients on oral hygiene * Charts cavities and teeth with doctor * Sterilizes instruments

Dental Assistant

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Dental Assistant supports dental care delivery by preparing treatment rooms, patients ... Instructs patients on oral hygiene * Charts cavities and teeth with doctor * Sterilizes instruments

Dental Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

The Dental Assistant supports dental care delivery by preparing treatment rooms, patients ... Instructs patients on oral hygiene * Charts cavities and teeth with doctor * Sterilizes instruments

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Assistant Hygienist information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$11

$17

$28

How much do assistant hygienist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant hygienist in Rio Rancho, NM is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Hygienist vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectAssistant HygienistDental Hygienist
Required CredentialsUsually certification or training program completionLicensed after completing an accredited dental hygiene program and passing licensing exams
Work EnvironmentAssists dental hygienists, works under supervision, in dental officesPerforms patient cleanings, assessments, and education independently within dental practices
Employer & Industry UsageDental clinics, offices, and some public health settingsPrimarily private dental practices, clinics, and healthcare facilities

Assistant Hygienists support dental hygienists by preparing patients and assisting during procedures, while Dental Hygienists perform independent patient cleanings and assessments. Both roles are essential in dental care, but Hygienists have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What are Assistant Hygienists?

Assistant Hygienists are dental professionals who work under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists or dentists to support oral health care. Their duties typically include preparing exam rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting with dental procedures, and providing patients with basic oral hygiene instructions. While they do not perform advanced dental cleanings or diagnose conditions, Assistant Hygienists play a key role in ensuring smooth workflow and patient comfort in a dental office. They may also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records.

What does a hygienist assistant do?

A hygienist assistant supports dental hygienists by preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, and assisting during dental procedures. They may also handle patient records, provide patient education, and ensure the clinic maintains proper infection control standards.

How much do dental assistants make an hour?

Dental assistants in general earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $25, though this can vary based on experience, location, and certifications. In some regions, wages may be higher for those with specialized skills or additional responsibilities.

Who gets paid more, a dental assistant or dental hygienist?

Dental hygienists typically earn higher salaries than dental assistants due to their advanced training, licensing, and responsibilities such as patient cleaning and education. While dental assistants support the dental team and perform basic procedures, hygienists often work independently and have more specialized skills, leading to higher pay.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Hygienists in a dental practice, and how can they be managed effectively?

Assistant Hygienists often encounter challenges such as managing a busy patient schedule, maintaining strict infection control protocols, and communicating effectively with both patients and the dental team. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. Building good rapport with patients and collaborating closely with dentists and other hygienists can help streamline workflow and improve patient care. Ongoing training in the latest dental technologies and procedures can also make it easier to handle daily tasks efficiently and stay current in the field.

Why are dental hygienists leaving the field?

Dental hygienists are leaving the field due to factors such as high stress levels, physical strain from repetitive motions, limited career advancement opportunities, and concerns about work-life balance. Additionally, some may seek roles with more flexible schedules or better compensation, especially as the profession evolves with new technologies and changing healthcare policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Hygienist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Hygienist, you need knowledge of dental hygiene practices, infection control, and a dental assistant certification or relevant training. Familiarity with dental charting software, sterilization equipment, and digital radiography systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work efficiently with dental teams help you excel in this role. These skills ensure patient safety, effective support for dental hygienists, and a positive experience for patients.
What are the most commonly searched types of Hygienist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Hygienist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Assistant Hygienist jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Assistant Hygienist job openings:

$36.50 - $48/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overview
The Dental Hygienist or Dental Hygiene Faculty (DHF), reporting to the Director of Dental Hygiene, will perform services on patients seen at Touro Dental Health which encompasses traditional and expanded dental hygiene. At the discretion of the Director of Dental Hygiene, the DHF will also assist with student evaluations, counseling, and assessment. This role also assists in preparation and selection of course materials including the didactic, laboratory, and clinical activities for students. The Hygienist will guide and help student dentists to manage, appoint, and recall oral hygiene patients. This position requires OSHA training and is subject to exposure to blood and other bodily fluids, as well as, enforcing HIPAA regulations specifically when accessing Protected Health Information (PHI).
Responsibilities
Responsibilities also include, but not restricted to:
  • Performing routine dental prophylaxis and periodontal maintenances
  • Performing non-surgical periodontal therapy (scaling/root planing)
  • Placing locally applied antimicrobial medicaments
  • Placing sealants/perform polishing
  • Oral Cancer screening
  • Administering local anesthesia
  • Maintaining accurate electronic patients' health records
  • Taking annual digital x-rays
  • Accurately charting periodontal conditions
  • Applying fluoride when appropriate
  • Counselling patients on oral hygiene and nutrition
  • Performing Zoom whitening
  • To teach, guide and work together with students on all procedures listed above
  • To evaluate student progress
  • To teach the Initial Periodontal Treatment Lab Course as a part of student preclinical education
  • Adherence to confidentiality, state, federal, and HIPAA laws and guidelines with regards to patient's records
  • Ability to work equally and collegially with others, consistent with a workplace of dignity and respect and EEO rules and regulations
  • Ability to work in the periodontic, special needs, and complex care dental clinics at the discretion of the Director of Dental Hygiene

Qualifications
Education/Experience
  • BS Dental Hygiene or Allied Health Sciences degree required.
  • Dental Hygienist NM License required
  • Dental Hygienist clinical experience at least 3 years required
  • Teaching experience a plus
  • Experience with dental practice management computers systems such as AxiUm.
  • Basic Life Support/ CPR Certification or recent related course completion.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Knowledge of medications used in conjunction with dental hygiene work.
  • Knowledge of health record keeping and dental charting.
  • Knowledge of OSHA Blood borne Pathogen Standards and adherence to safety standards.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize tasks.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member.
  • Ability to educate patients across the lifespan in all aspects of oral hygiene including consequences and treatment options for periodontal disease
  • Ability to work well in a professional environment
  • Must be high integrity & work ethic, motivated, dependable.
  • Adaptable with learning new technology and techniques.
  • Must be available for work during the hours assigned, for student instruction and practice development.
  • Fluent in English, Spanish speaking a plus.