Northeast College of Dental Hygiene
The Dental Hygiene program at Northeast College of Dental Hygiene equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate dental hygiene care for both individual patients and the broader community. Our program emphasizes total wellness through the advancement of oral health across New Hampshire.
Our dedicated faculty foster a well-rounded learning environment that encourages professionalism, independent thinking, and personal accountability. We are proud to offer a collaborative, inclusive educational experience that supports the success of a culturally diverse student body.
Most clinical training takes place at our Dental Hygiene Clinic, located inside practices owned by Dr. Nanarao. In addition to on-site learning, students participate in limited external rotations, all within a five-mile radius. Students are expected to arrange their own transportation for off-campus clinical experiences.
Education is not only the process of learning through formal instruction—it also represents the knowledge gained and the broader mission of teaching as an institution. At Northeast College of Dental Hygiene, we believe the true purpose of education is to support the complete development of each individual—academically, professionally, and personally.
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The Dental Hygiene Clinic consists of the following:
- Six dental units with computer access for patient records and education.
- Two radiography units and three NOMAD handheld units
A panoramic X-ray machine and a cone-beam CT machine
Digital radiography equipment (imaging plates with scanners and corded sensors) - Intraoral cameras
- Ultrasonic and Piezo Scalers
- EMS Airflow Prophylaxis units
Upon successful completion of the program, Dental Hygiene graduates may be eligible to take national, regional, and state board examinations leading to licensure. In most states, licensure results in the Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) credential.
The American Dental Association administers the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination each year. The exam is presented in an electronic format and consists of multiple-choice questions.
Information on applying for licensure in New Hampshire: Applicants for licensure must also successfully pass written, open-book, online exams on jurisprudence and on sterilization and infection control.
Federal law does not allow undocumented individuals to obtain a professional license, including a dental hygiene license in New Hampshire. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or possess resident alien status to be eligible for licensure.
Northeast College of Dental Hygiene academic programs that are designed to lead to professional licenses are tied to New Hampshire or national certifications. If you intend to pursue professional licenses outside New Hampshire once you have completed your academic program at Northeast College of Dental Hygiene, please refer to the Professional Licensure section on the college’s distance education authorization page for additional information.
Career Outlook
Potential employers may post a job opening ad free on Handshake. Postings may be for dental hygienists, dental assistants, front desk, etc.
In addition, as part of a Professional Development course each spring, the program hosts an Employer Engagement Fair where potential employers meet with graduating students. Employers are invited to set up a table where students rotate through and learn about employment opportunities.
With the number of requests received, program staff are unable to schedule individual lunch-and-learns or utilize class time, but are willing to share presentations, fliers, emails, etc., with students.