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July 28, 2025
ADHA and CareQuest Institute partner to launch comprehensive tool consolidating key information to improve navigation of state requirements
July 29, 2025 (Chicago, IL) – The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA®) and CareQuest Institute for Oral Health today announced the launch of the Dental Hygienist Licensure Map, an interactive resource that provides state-by-state licensure information for dental hygienists across the United States. The tool consolidates previously scattered information into one accessible platform, serving the professional needs of more than 220,000 dental hygienists nationwide.
The map provides detailed information across multiple licensure categories, including initial licensure requirements, continuing education renewal requirements, licensure by credentials, specialty licensure, and dental hygiene compact states. It also includes scope of practice information and direct links to state licensing boards, making it a one-stop reference for dental hygienists navigating professional requirements.
“This interactive map represents a significant advancement in supporting our profession's mobility and growth,” said Lancette VanGuilder, ADHA president. “By consolidating essential licensure information into an intuitive, visual format, we’re empowering dental hygienists to make informed decisions about their careers and practice locations.”
The map replaces multiple resources that previously required dental hygienists to search through various pages and documents to find complete licensure information.
CareQuest Institute sponsored this project to fill a critical gap in the oral health workforce infrastructure with a comprehensive resource for dental hygienists whose role is essential in expanding access to care.
"Dental hygienists play a critical role in supporting community oral health by delivering preventive care, promoting health education, and serving as accessible, trusted providers — especially in underserved and high-need populations," said Trenae Simpson, Senior Director, Philanthropy at CareQuest Institute. "Each of these components is essential if we are to reach a point where everyone has the same opportunity to maximize their health through oral health."
The map aligns with CareQuest Institute's mission to improve oral health by promoting equity and access through clearer licensure pathways, supporting workforce development by making licensure requirements more transparent and navigable, and enabling policy advocacy through a centralized, data-driven tool.
Key features of the Dental Hygienist Licensure Map include:
- Initial Licensure Information: Entry-level program requirements, accepted clinical exams, and state-specific scope of practice
- Renewal Requirements: Continuing education requirements, renewal cycles, fees, and special requirements for each state
- Compact Status Visualization: Clear identification of states participating in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Licensure Compact for professional mobility
- Direct State Connections: Links to state licensing boards and regulations for the most current official information
- User-Friendly Interface: Interactive design that makes finding state-specific information quick and easy
Development of the resource was made possible through a grant from CareQuest Institute. The six-month project involved consolidating and updating information from multiple existing ADHA resources and external sources, ensuring accuracy across all 50 states, and US territories.
“ADHA is grateful for CareQuest Institute’s support in making this practical resource available to our profession,” added VanGuilder. “Their partnership enables us to provide dental hygienists with the tools they need to navigate their professional requirements successfully.”
The map will be updated semiannually with current information. Future enhancements are planned to expand the resource’s capabilities and user experience.
For more information about ADHA's Dental Hygienist Licensure Map, visit adha.org/licensuremaps.
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About the American Dental Hygienists’ Association
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is the only organization representing the professional interests of the more than 220,000 dental hygienists in the United States. Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who provide educational, clinical and therapeutic services that support total health through the promotion of optimal oral health. The Journal of Dental Hygiene (JDH), published bi-monthly, is ADHA’s scientific journal and flagship publication. To learn more about the ADHA, dental hygiene or the link between oral health and general health, visit adha.org.
About CareQuest Institute for Oral Health
CareQuest Institute for Oral Health® is a national nonprofit championing a more equitable future where every person can reach their full potential through excellent health. CareQuest Institute does this through their work in philanthropy, analytics and data insights, health transformation, policy and advocacy, and education as well as their leadership in dental benefits and innovation advancements. CareQuest Institute collaborates with thought leaders, health care providers, patients, and local, state, and federal stakeholders, to accelerate oral health care transformation and create a system designed for everyone. To learn more, visit carequest.org and follow them on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Media Contacts
Bronwyn Barrera
ADHA
(312) 440-8911
communications@adha.net
Sara Ward
CareQuest Institute
(314) 276-6727
sward@carequest.org