What is the process for reporting unethical conduct of a dental hygienist in New Jersey?

Filing a complaint with the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry is the proper procedure for reporting unethical conduct of a dental hygienist in New Jersey. This board is responsible for overseeing the practice of dentistry and dental hygiene within the state and is tasked with enforcing regulations, as well as investigating allegations of misconduct. Complaints can be related to violations of professional ethics, licensing issues, or any behavior that jeopardizes public safety or the integrity of the dental profession.

By submitting a complaint to the State Board, you ensure that the matter is handled by the authoritative body that has the power to conduct investigations, hold hearings, and impose disciplinary action if necessary. This process helps maintain standards of practice and protects patients and the community from unethical behavior.

Other options, such as contacting the local police department or notifying the employer, do not have the same authority or structured process for addressing ethical issues in the dental hygiene profession. Although it might seem appropriate to report incidents to the police if they involve criminal activity, the specific concern here is unethical conduct, which is best managed within the relevant professional framework. Submitting a report to the American Dental Association also does not fall under the jurisdictional authority to manage state-specific complaints dealing with unethical practices, as they operate on a national level and