What are the implications of practicing dental hygiene with a lapsed license in New Jersey?

Practicing dental hygiene with a lapsed license in New Jersey has significant legal implications, including potential fines and disciplinary action. In New Jersey, a dental hygienist must maintain an active license to legally provide services. A lapsed license means that the hygienist is not authorized to practice, which can lead to serious consequences.

Regulatory bodies take the matter of unlicensed practice very seriously to ensure public safety and maintain professional standards. Engaging in practice without a valid license exposes the practitioner to penalties that can include monetary fines and possible disciplinary measures such as suspension or revocation of the license upon reinstatement. The implications extend beyond the individual hygienist, as unlicensed practice can also pose risks to patients and the broader healthcare community. Therefore, it is crucial for dental hygienists in New Jersey to stay current with licensure requirements to maintain both their legal standing and professional integrity.