Mississippi Dental Practice Act: Scope, Definitions, and Board Authority
The Mississippi Dental Practice Act, Miss. Code Ann. § 73-9-1 et seq., is the statutory foundation for dental regulation in the state. The exam tests whether you can identify the Act's broad definition of dentistry, the State Board of Dental Examiners' authority, and the line between licensed practice and unauthorized activity.
Core rules
- The Board licenses dentists and dental hygienists, adopts administrative rules, approves training and sedation permits, inspects practices, investigates complaints, and imposes discipline.
- The practice of dentistry includes diagnosis, treatment planning, surgery, prescribing, radiography, making appliances, and holding out as able to perform dental services.
- A person may not practice dentistry or dental hygiene without a current license, and aiding unlicensed practice is itself a violation.
- Board rules have the force of law when adopted under statutory authority; the Act and rules must be read together.
Worked example
A technician takes alginate impressions and fabricates whitening trays for a customer without a dentist's examination. This is likely unauthorized dentistry: the service involves a dental appliance and treatment based on the patient's oral condition, and it implies diagnosis and professional judgment. A licensed dentist must examine, authorize, and remain responsible for the service.
Traps that cost marks
Do not assume the Board regulates only licensed dentists. It also addresses unlicensed practice, illegal corporate arrangements, and unprofessional conduct. Do not treat the definition of dentistry as limited to surgery or fillings; prevention, appliances, and prescriptions are included. Finally, Board authority comes from statute, so a rule cannot exceed the Act's grants.
Exam focus
Know who may practice, what counts as practice, and which body enforces the Act. When a fact pattern involves a new service or business model, ask whether diagnosis, treatment, or a dental appliance is involved and whether a licensed dentist has accepted responsibility.