HB 970 - This act modifies provisions relating to the licensing of dentists and dental hygienists. The Dental Board shall issue specialist licenses without examination to applicants who have been certified in any specialty by an examining board recognized by the American Dental Association or the Council on Dental Accreditation. The board is authorized to issue specialized licenses for dentists who hold specialty licenses in other states, provided they are licensed in this state and the educational requirements for their specialized licenses are the same or exceed those in this state. The board may create specialization committees for each specialty recognized by the American Dental Association. The committees will assist the board in establishing criteria and evaluating applicants for specialty licenses. All specialty licenses be subject to disciplinary action by the board and required to pay fees as set by the board.

Dentists and dental hygienists are required to complete all continuing education requirements prior to license renewal. Failure to obtain required continuing education hours, submit the hours, or maintain documentation shall subject the licensee to disciplinary action by the board. All dentists and dental hygienists who have allowed their licenses to lapse for more than four years are required to make application and take all licensing examinations required by the board. The act establishes an expedited hearing process before the Administrative Hearing Commission for cases brought by the board concerning licensees who present a clear and present danger to the health and safety of the public.

The act authorizes the practice of dentistry across state lines, as long as the person practicing across state lines is licensed to practice dentistry in another state and the practice is limited to the rendering of documented opinions concerning diagnosis and treatment through electronic means. When receiving consultations across state lines, the ultimate authority and responsibility for the diagnosis and treatment of the patient remains with the primary care dentist licensed in this state.
JIM ERTLE