What is required before a dental hygienist can apply fluoride varnish in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, a dental hygienist must complete an approved training course before they are authorized to apply fluoride varnish. This requirement ensures that hygienists have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely administer fluoride varnish and understand its implications for patient care. The training covers the appropriate techniques, indications for use, and potential contraindications, which are critical for ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

While obtaining written consent from the patient and ensuring the approval of the dentist on site are important components of dental practice, they do not constitute the primary requirement for the administration of fluoride varnish specifically. Additionally, holding a certificate in general dentistry is not a prerequisite for hygienists applying fluoride varnish, as their training and certification focus on specialized dental hygiene procedures rather than general dentistry principles. Thus, completion of an approved training course is the essential step that allows a hygienist to proceed with fluoride varnish application.