Objective To investigate the level and factors associated with work engagement among outpatient department nurses in dental hospitals. Methods A total of 801 outpatient department nurses in 7 tertiary dental hospitals filled out a general information questionnaire, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale and the Nursing Work Environment Scale. Results The mean score of work engagement was 3.98±0.97.Hierarchical regression analysis showed that after controlling for the demographic variables, nursing work environment could explain 36.5% of the variance in work engagement. Conclusion Outpatient department nurses in dental hospitals report moderate work engagement, which is affected by work environment.Managers should optimize work environment, create recognition culture, improve basic securities, reasonably allocate nursing workforce, and inspire professional autonomy of nurses, thus to enhance their work engagement.