Dental Hygiene: Introduction

All General Education Credits may not be acceptable for transfer. Therefore, Applicants must contact the affiliate college directly to determine the residency credit requirement for the number of general education credits, which must be taken at that college.

Keystone testing is required as a part of the admissions process. For information please contact the affiliate institution.

The affiliates maintain policies which outline residency requirements regarding transfer credits. Students taking pre-requisite courses will be required to register for the following number of credits at the designated affiliate institutions:

New Jersey Dental School	Scotch Plains Dental Suite

Director:
Carolyn Breen, Ed.D., RDH, RDA

The Dental Hygiene Program prepares individuals interested in providing preventive, educational and therapeutic services to the public. In order to expose students to the most modern equipment and advanced treatment techniques, the facilities of the UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School and the School of Health Related Professions-Scotch Plains Dental Suite are utilized. Prospective dental hygiene students must possess manual dexterity, good vision, optimal oral and personal hygiene habits and good communication skills.

The Dental Hygienist's Scope of Practice

The Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a member of the oral health care team who provides treatment to prevent oral diseases, under the supervision of a dentist. Clinical skills include performing oral health assessments, examining head, neck and oral regions for disease, exposing, processing and mounting x-rays and other diagnostic tests, removing deposits from teeth, applying sealants and fluoride to prevent decay, providing nutritional counseling and patient education and other patient services as delegated by the dentist. Dental hygienists are also involved in community dental education and public health.

Patient education: Oral hygiene	Deposit removal

Commonly Asked Questions about Dental Hygiene

Where do dental hygienists work?

Are there opportunities for career advancement for dental hygienists?

Yes. Registered dental hygienists can further their education beyond the Associate in Applied Science degree level, preparing them for careers as educators, administrators, researchers, and dentists. UMDNJ-SHRP provides opportunities for Registered Dental Hygienists to continue their education in the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences Program.

What are the advantages of a career in dental hygiene?

• High hourly wages
• Good working environment
• Flexible hours
• High-demand profession
• Opportunity to help others
• Member of health care delivery team

What are the employment prospects for dental hygienists?

Dental Hygiene continue to be a fast growing occupation with excellent opportunities.

What is the average salary for dental hygienists?

Most dental hygienists may command a minimum hourly wage of $30 to $34 upon graduation. Some employers offer uniform allowances, reimbursement for continuing education and professional dues, health benefits, and pension plans.