At present, NJ has DIRECT SUPERVISION in private dental offices. The dentist MUST be on the premises at all times that the hygienist is working. General Supervision means that the dentist is aware of and authorizes the treatment to be performed but does NOT have to be on the premises at all times. This allows greater flexibility accommodating patients. Currently 42 states have general supervision. NJ is only 1 of the remaining 8 states that do not allow for general supervision. The Board of Dentistry is weighing pros and cons of general supervision for New Jersey hygienists. Dentists who support general supervision could write to the Board of Dentistry, PO Box 45005, Newark, NJ 07101.