A Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) is a licensed registered dental hygienist with specialized training that holds a specific license to allow him or her to practice in settings outside of the traditional dental office. These alternative settings may include schools, skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, private homes, or their own RDHAP offices. RDHAPs provide the same professional preventive care that patients receive in a dental office, but at a location more convenient for the patient.