Division of Dental Hygiene

SADHA

The University of New Mexico, Division of Dental Hygiene

Student American Dental Hygienists' Association

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) was formed in 1923 to develop communication and mutual cooperation among dental hygienists. Today, ADHA is the largest national organization representing the professional interests of the registered dental hygienists (RDHs) in the United States.

Student American Dental Hygienists' Association (SADHA) is a branch of the ADHA. SADHA allows student members to experience being part of their professional organization.

ADHA and SADHA Mission Statement

To improve the public's total health, the mission of the American Dental Hygienists' Association is to advance the art and science of dental hygiene by ensuring access to quality oral health care, increasing awareness of the cost effective benefits of prevention, promotion the highest standards of dental hygiene education, licensure, practice and research, and representing and promotion the interests of dental hygienists.

Benefits of Student Membership in ADHA
As a student member, you are provided with invaluable opportunities to preview your career as a dental hygienist. Your affiliation with ADHA will help secure the success of your future in dental hygiene.

Scholarships - The ADHA Institute for Oral Health offers a variety of scholarship programs and research grants for students seeking careers in dental hygiene.

Recognition in Your Field - Membership in ADHA provides opportunities for professional growth and recognition. Leadership opportunities are available at every level of membership.

Countless Networking Opportunities - Join over 35,000 of your colleagues who have made the commitment to dental hygiene and to ADHA. Members at the state and local levels meet regularly to discuss ideas, information, and to share experiences.

Employment Assistance - ADHA offers national advertising and employment reference materials to assist students upon graduation.

Job Security - Once you've found a job, ADHA is right there helping to monitor legislative efforts to impact government activities that affect the practice of dental hygiene.

Financial Security - ADHA provides members with affordable, professional liability insurance, as well as group health, automobile, term life and disability insurance. You are also eligible to apply for a student MasterCard.

Continuing Education - ADHA helps you stay abreast of the issues affecting the dental hygiene profession. Student Members are eligible to receive a 25% discount on self-study continuing education programs. Students will also receive information about the ADHA's Annual Session.

After Graduation...
Upon graduation from an accredited program in dental hygiene, you will be eligible to become an Active Member of ADHA. Active Membership will entitle you to all the benefits you received as a student, and many more.

The following services were designed especially for you, the dental hygiene professional:

  • Countless educational programs, workshops and conferences to keep you informed of changes and advancements in your profession, and to help keep your license current
  • State constituent and local component member services and benefits
  • Representation of your professional opinions in legislative action affecting your patients as well as your profession
  • Group insurance policies at competitive rates
  • Innovative self-study and continuing education programs

Membership in your professional association demonstrates your commitment to excellence and the highest standards of preventive oral health care.

For more helpful information on SADHA please see ADHA's website.

   

Community and University Service
Graduate students, Diana Burnham, RDH, BS and Irma Poblano, RDH, BS kick of the new school year by informing UNM students, faculty and staff about our Dental Hygiene Program and patient services at UNM's North Campus "Welcome Back Days."

   

SADHA members partner with UNM's School of Medicine medical students and volunteer for community service as they provide oral hygiene instructions and distribute oral health products at a local Health Fair for Head Start Programs

   

SADHA members attend professional conferences