FAQ

How do I register?

To apply for or renew your license to practice as a dental hygienist in Newfoundland and Labrador you will need to apply online using the Newfoundland & Labrador Council of Health Professionals (NLCHP) website. The NLCHP is the regulatory body that handles the registration process and protects the public by ensuring safe and competent practice. Registration occurs on April 1st of each year. If you are having difficulty using the online renewal system check out this step-by-step guide.

If you are new to the registration process in Newfoundland and Labrador please click here for more information.

What is the role of the NL College of Dental Hygienists (NLCDH)?*

The NLCDH functions in union with the NLCHP in regulating the practice of Dental Hygiene in this province.

The public is served and protected by the College by:

  • Approving a program of study and education for the purpose of establishing education requirements;

  • Developing entry to practice requirements for Dental Hygiene including annual renewal or re-certification requirements and continuing competency requirements;

  • Establishing a scope of practice;

  • Establishing standards of practice;

  • Developing a code of ethics;

  • Supporting dental hygienists in their delivery of high quality, safe and ethical care to the public of Newfoundland & Labrador.

It is not a teaching institution. It is a professional, self regulating body with the primary focus of serving and protecting the public interest.

The Chair of the College and one other elected member of the College represent the College as members of the Council and assist the Council in carrying out its duties under the Health Professions Act.

*http://www.nlcdh.com/documents/roleofcouncilandcollege

What is the role of the NL Council of Health Professionals (NLCHP)*

The NLCHP is an independent body established by legislation under the Health Professions Act (2010). The Council is responsible for governing the regulation of seven health groups designated under the Act.

These professions include:

  • Acupuncturists

  • Audiologists

  • Speech Language Pathologist

  • Dental Hygienists

  • Medical Laboratory Technologists

  • Midwives

  • Respiratory Therapists

The NLCHP, in consultation with the Colleges, is responsible for regulating all groups in the areas of registration, professional standards, quality

assurance, and discipline. The NLCHP, with two members from each of the professional groups and six public representatives shall act to:

  • support the quality and safety of health services;

  • enhance public protection;

  • improve patient safety and strengthen the regulatory system;

  • facilitate patient-centered inter-professional collaboration and care.

*http://www.nlcdh.com/documents/roleofcouncilandcollege

What is the difference between continuing education and professional development?

Continuing education (CE) refers to training and/or education that is approved by the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Dental Hygienists (NLCDH). Such training is intended to improve competency and to ensure you are keeping up with the latest knowledge and technology pertaining to dental hygiene. Some examples include local anesthetic modules, orthodontic modules, dental hygiene related courses offered by recognized organizations/educational facilities such as conferences, seminars, e-learning, and webinars related to dental hygiene, etc.

Professional Development (PD) refers to skills and/or knowledge that may be attained from a wide range of formal to informal learning opportunities. Such skills and/or knowledge must be for both personal and career development. Some examples include volunteering, participating in committees, personal development courses not related to dental hygiene, WHIMIS, etc.

For more information please see the NLCDH CE PD Policy.

How many CE/PD credits do I need each year?

Dental hygienists are required to obtain a total of 15 CE/PD credits per calendar year. You must obtain 10-15 CE credits per year. Although PD credits are not mandatory, if you are using PD credits you are only able to use a maximum of 5 per calendar year.

For more information please see the NLCDH CE PD Policy.

What are the CPR requirements?

Please see the NLCDH CPR Policy.