Board Structure, Disciplinary Process, and Enforcement
What the exam tests
This domain tests how the Board of Dental Examiners is composed, what authority it has, and how a complaint moves from investigation to sanction.
Core rules
- The Board is appointed by the governor and includes dentist members, dental hygienist members, and public representation. It licenses practitioners, investigates complaints, and imposes discipline.
- A complaint typically leads to investigation, notice to the licensee, an opportunity for a hearing, and a Board order. The Board may impose a reprimand, fine, suspension, revocation, probation, or additional continuing education.
- Emergency action may be taken when continued practice poses an imminent danger to the public.
- Unlicensed practice is separately enforceable and may be referred to the attorney general or law enforcement.
- Board proceedings are administrative, not criminal; a patient lawsuit is not required for discipline.
Worked example
A former patient complains that instruments were not sterilized. Reasoning: the Board may investigate the office's infection control practices and discipline the hygienist individually if the hygienist was responsible, even if the dentist owns the practice. The absence of a lawsuit does not bar Board action.
Traps that cost marks
Treating the Board as a criminal court; assuming a complaint is meaningless without a civil suit; and believing only the practice owner can be disciplined.