How to Become a Dental Hygienist in New Jersey: A Complete Guide

Looking to start a career in dental hygiene in the Garden State? New Jersey offers excellent opportunities for dental hygienists, with strong demand across its many urban and suburban areas. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of becoming a licensed dental hygienist in New Jersey.

Educational Requirements

Step 1: Complete Prerequisites

Before entering a dental hygiene program, complete these prerequisite courses:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• English Composition
• Psychology
• Mathematics
• Social Sciences

Step 2: Earn Your Degree

New Jersey offers several accredited dental hygiene programs:

• Bergen Community College
• Camden County College
• Middlesex County College
• Rutgers School of Health Related Professions

Programs typically include:

• 2-3 years of study
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree
• Clinical experience
• Laboratory training
• Classroom instruction

Licensing Requirements

Step 3: National Board Examination

Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE):

• Computer-based comprehensive exam
• Tests dental hygiene theory and knowledge
• Covers clinical practice principles
• Required for New Jersey licensure

Step 4: Clinical Examination

Complete one of these clinical examinations:

• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
• Northeast Regional Board (NERB)
• Council of Interstate Testing Agencies (CITA)

Step 5: New Jersey State Licensure

Submit to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry:

• Completed application
• Official transcripts
• National Board scores
• Clinical examination results
• Criminal background check
• CPR certification
• Required fees
• Jurisprudence examination results

Additional Requirements

New Jersey Specific Requirements

• Complete New Jersey jurisprudence examination
• Obtain liability insurance
• Register for controlled substance administration
• Complete infection control requirements
• Maintain CPR certification

Continuing Education

To maintain licensure:

• Complete 20 continuing education credits every two years
• Include specific coursework in:
• Infection control
• Medical emergencies
• Pain management
• Cultural competency

Career Opportunities

Work Settings

New Jersey dental hygienists can work in:

• Private dental practices
• Group dental practices
• Community health centers
• Educational institutions
• Public health clinics
• Corporate dental offices
• Research facilities

Salary and Benefits

As of 2024, New Jersey dental hygienists can expect:

• Average annual salary: $80,000 – $95,000
• Higher wages in metropolitan areas
• Benefits often include:
• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Professional development
• Dental coverage

Professional Development

Career Advancement

Opportunities include:

• Bachelor’s degree completion
• Master’s degree programs
• Teaching positions
• Research roles
• Dental sales
• Practice management
• Public health administration

Professional Organizations

Join these associations:

• New Jersey Dental Hygienists’ Association
• American Dental Hygienists’ Association
• Local dental study clubs

Regional Considerations

Metropolitan Area Practice

• Understanding urban healthcare needs
• Cultural competency
• Multiple practice locations
• Competitive job market

Suburban/Rural Opportunities

• Community health programs
• Mobile dental services
• School-based programs
• Private practice partnerships

Success Strategies

1. Educational Success

• Maintain strong academic performance
• Develop clinical expertise
• Build professional relationships
• Gain hands-on experience

1. Career Launch

• Network actively
• Consider multiple practice settings
• Build a strong resume
• Develop interview skills

1. Professional Growth

• Stay current with technology
• Expand clinical skills
• Pursue specialization
• Maintain work-life balance

Resources and Contacts

Educational Programs

Bergen Community College

• Location: Paramus
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

Camden County College

• Location: Blackwood
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

Middlesex County College

• Location: Edison
• Program: AAS in Dental Hygiene

Rutgers School of Health Related Professions

• Location: Newark
• Program: BS in Dental Hygiene

Regulatory Bodies

• New Jersey State Board of Dentistry
• Department of Consumer Affairs
• New Jersey Dental Association

Special Considerations

Dense Population Impact

• High patient volume
• Diverse patient base
• Multiple practice opportunities
• Competitive salary potential

Geographic Advantages

• Proximity to major cities
• Multiple employment markets
• Professional development opportunities
• Regional networking

Tips for Success

1. During Education

• Join student organizations
• Attend professional conferences
• Seek mentorship opportunities
• Build clinical confidence

1. Starting Your Career

• Research practice locations
• Consider commuting options
• Evaluate benefit packages
• Understand employment contracts

1. Long-term Success

• Develop leadership skills
• Build patient relationships
• Consider practice ownership
• Maintain professional networks

Conclusion

Becoming a dental hygienist in New Jersey offers excellent career prospects with competitive compensation and numerous opportunities for professional growth. While the process requires dedication and hard work, the result is a rewarding career in healthcare with strong demand and advancement potential.

For the most current information, contact:

• New Jersey State Board of Dentistry
• Your chosen educational institution
• New Jersey Dental Hygienists’ Association

Note: Requirements and salary information may change. Always verify current requirements with the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry.