citation: BPC § 1753

text:
(a) On and after January 1, 2010, the board may license as a registered dental assistant in extended functions a person who files a completed application, pays the applicable fee, and submits written evidence, satisfactory to the board, of all of the following eligibility requirements:

(1) Current, active, and valid licensure as a registered dental assistant.

(2) A full set of fingerprints for purposes of conducting a criminal history check.

(3) Successful completion of either of the following:

(A) An extended functions postsecondary program approved by the board in all of the procedures specified in Section 1753.5.

(B) An extended functions postsecondary program approved by the board to teach the duties that registered dental assistants in extended functions were allowed to perform pursuant to board regulations prior to January 1, 2010, and a course approved by the board in the procedures specified in paragraphs (1), (2), (5), and (7) to (11), inclusive, of subdivision (b) of Section 1753.5.

(4) Current certification in basic life support issued by American Red Cross, American Heart Association, American Safety and Health Institute, American Dental Association’s Continuing Education Provider Recognition Program, or Academy of General Dentistry’s Program Approval for Continuing Education.

(5) Successful completion of a board-approved pit and fissure sealant course.

(6) Passage of a written examination administered by the board. The board shall designate whether the written examination shall be administered by the board.

(b) A registered dental assistant in extended functions with permits in either orthodontic assisting or dental sedation assisting shall be referred to as an “RDAEF with orthodontic assistant permit,” or “RDAEF with dental sedation assistant permit,” as applicable. These terms shall be used for reference purposes only and do not create additional categories of licensure.

(c) Completion of the continuing education requirements established by the board pursuant to Section 1645 by a registered dental assistant in extended functions who also holds a permit as an orthodontic assistant or dental sedation assistant shall fulfill the continuing education requirement for such permit or permits.

(d) The licensee shall be responsible for complying with all applicable licensure renewal requirements, including continuing education pursuant to Section 1645.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 57. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


kind: section

code: BPC

text:
(a) A registered dental assistant in extended functions licensed on or after January 1, 2010, is authorized to perform all duties and procedures that a registered dental assistant is authorized to perform as specified in and limited by Section 1752.4, and the duties in this section.

(b) A registered dental assistant in extended functions licensed on or after January 1, 2010, is authorized to perform the following additional procedures under direct supervision and pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of a licensed dentist:

(1) Perform oral health assessments, including intraoral and extraoral soft tissue evaluations to identify oral lesions, classifying occlusion, performing myofunctional evaluations, and oral cancer screenings as authorized by the supervising dentist.

(2) Perform oral health assessments in school-based, community health project settings under the direction of a dentist, registered dental hygienist, or registered dental hygienist in alternative practice.

(3) Gingival retraction for impression and restorative procedures.

(4) Size and fit endodontic master points and accessory points.

(5) Cement endodontic master points and accessory points.

(6) Perform post, core, and build-up procedures in conjunction with direct and indirect restorations.

(7) Take final impression for permanent indirect restorations.

(8) Take final impressions for tooth-borne removeable prosthesis.

(9) Place, contour, finish, and adjust all direct restorations.

(10) Adjust and adhere all permanent indirect restorations.

(11) Other procedures authorized by regulations adopted by the board.

(c) A registered dental assistant in extended functions licensed on or after January 1, 2010, may perform a duty specified in this section using contemporary techniques and materials designed for use in the performance of that duty under the direct supervision and pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of a licensed dentist if the registered dental assistant in extended functions has completed the appropriate education and training, and whose skill, knowledge, and education in the use of such contemporary technique or material has been determined clinically competent by the supervising licensed dentist.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 58. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

division: 2. HEALING ARTS

chapter: 4. Dentistry

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 4. Dentistry > 7. Dental Auxiliaries


text:
Each person who holds a license as a registered dental assistant in extended functions on the operative date of this section may only perform those procedures that a registered dental assistant is allowed to perform as specified in and limited by Section 1752.4, and the procedures specified in subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, until the person provides evidence of having completed a board-approved course in the additional procedures specified in Sections 1753.5 and 1753.55:

(a) Gingiva retraction for impression and restorative procedures.

(b) Take final impressions for permanent direct and indirect restorations.

(c) Apply pit and fissure sealants.

(d) Remove excess cement from subgingival tooth surfaces with a hand instrument.

(e) Fit trial endodontic filling points.

(f) Formulate indirect patterns for post and core castings.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 62. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


text:
(a) Unless otherwise specified in this section, a registered dental assistant in extended functions licensed on or after January 1, 2010, who successfully completes a board-approved course in interim therapeutic restoration and radiographic decisionmaking, is authorized to perform the following enhanced duties pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of the supervising licensed dentist:

(1) Under general supervision, determine which radiographs to perform on a patient who has not received an initial examination by the supervising dentist for the specific purpose of the dentist making a diagnosis and treatment plan for the patient. The registered dental assistant in extended functions shall follow protocols established by the supervising dentist.

(2) Under direct supervision, place interim therapeutic restorations to stabilize the tooth until a licensed dentist diagnoses the need for further definitive treatment.

(b) Place interim therapeutic restorations after the supervising dentist confirms a diagnosis and provides instruction to perform the procedure in the following settings:

(1) In a dental office setting, under the direct or general supervision of a dentist.

(2) In public health settings, using telehealth, as defined by Section 2290.5, for the purpose of communication with the supervising dentist, including, but not limited to, schools, Head Start and preschool programs, and community clinics, under the general supervision of a dentist.

(c) The board shall identify, on the statewide license verification internet website, the enhanced duty of interim therapeutic restoration for a registered dental assistant in extended functions who files a completed verification form issued by the board including the applicable fee.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 59. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


text:
(a) On or after January 1, 2026, a provider of a course for instruction in interim therapeutic restorations and radiographic decisionmaking for a registered dental assistant in extended functions shall apply for board approval to offer the course and submit all of the following to the board:

(1) An application prescribed by the board that shall specify the name of the course or educational program administrator or director, the name of the course provider, the name of the course, and the location where the course will be offered.

(2) The application fee prescribed by regulation.

(3) A detailed course curriculum evidencing that the course is sufficient in length for the students to develop competency in placement of protective restorations, but shall be, at a minimum, 16 hours in length and include all of the following:

(A) Four hours of didactic training, which may take place in an in-person or online environment, and shall include:

(i) Review of pulpal anatomy.

(ii) Theory of adhesive restorative materials used in the placement of adhesive protective restorations, including mechanisms of bonding to tooth structure, handling characteristics of the materials, preparation of the tooth prior to material placement, and placement techniques.

(iii) Criteria used in clinical dentistry pertaining to the use and placement of adhesive protective restorations, which shall include:

(I) Patient factors, as follows:

(ia) According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification, the patient is Class III or less.

(ib) The patient is cooperative enough to have the interim therapeutic restoration placed without the need for special protocols, including sedation or physical support.

(ic) The patient, or responsible party, has provided consent for the interim therapeutic restoration procedure.

(id) The patient reports that the tooth is asymptomatic, or if there is mild sensitivity that stops within a few seconds of the removal of the offending stimulus.

(II) Tooth factors, as follows:

(ia) The lesion is accessible without the need for creating access using a dental handpiece.

(ib) The margins of the lesion are accessible so that clean, noninvolved margins can be obtained around the entire periphery of the lesion with the use of hand instrumentation.

(ic) The depth of the lesion is more than two millimeters from the pulp on radiographic examination or is judged by the supervising licensed dentist to be a shallow lesion such that the treatment does not endanger the pulp or require the use of local anesthetic.

(id) The tooth is restorable and does not have other significant pathology.

(iv) The protocols to deal with adverse outcomes used in the placement of adhesive protective restorations, including mechanisms of bonding to tooth structure, handling characteristics of the materials, preparation of the tooth prior to material placement, and placement techniques.

(v) Criteria for evaluating successful completion of adhesive protective restorations, including, but not limited to, restorative material not in hyper occlusion, no marginal voids, and minimal excess material.

(vi) Protocols for adverse outcomes after interim therapeutic restoration placement, including, but not limited to, exposed pulp, tooth fracture, gingival tissue injury, high occlusion, open margins, tooth sensitivity, rough surface, complications, or unsuccessful completion of adhesive protective restorations, including situations requiring immediate referral to a dentist.

(vii) Protocols for followup of adhesive protective restorations, including, but not limited to, at least two followup examinations of the interim therapeutic restoration within a 12-month period.

(B) Four hours of laboratory training, which shall be held at a physical facility, and include placement of 10 adhesive protective restorations where students demonstrate competency in this technique on typodont teeth.

(C) Eight hours of clinical training, which shall be held at a physical facility, and include experiences where students demonstrate, at minimum, placement of five interim therapeutic restorations under direct supervision of faculty.

(4) A detailed course curriculum evidencing that the course is sufficient in length for the students to develop competency in making decisions about which radiographs to expose to facilitate diagnosis and treatment planning by a dentist, but shall be, at a minimum, four hours in length and include all of the following:

(A) Didactic instruction, including all of the following:

(i) The concept of managing caries and individualizing treatment based on a caries risk assessment.

(ii) Guidelines for radiographic decisionmaking, including, but not limited to, both of the following concepts:

(I) The American Dental Association’s Dental Radiographic Examinations: Recommendations for Patient Selection and Limiting Radiation Exposure (Revised 2012).

(II) The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Guidelines on Prescribing Dental Radiographs.

(iii) The guidelines developed by Pacific Center for Special Care at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry (Pacific) for use in training for Health and Workforce Pilot Project No. 172, including both of the following:

(I) Instruction on specific decisionmaking guidelines that incorporate information about the patient’s health, radiographic history, time span since previous radiographs were taken, and availability of previous radiographs.

(II) Instruction pertaining to the general condition of the mouth, including the extent of dental restorations present and visible signs of abnormalities, including broken teeth, dark areas, holes in teeth, demineralization, visible carious lesions, and remineralization.

(B) Laboratory training that includes case-based examination with various clinical situations where trainees make decisions about which radiographs to expose and demonstrate competency to faculty based on these case studies.

(C) Simulated clinical experiences consisting of a review of various clinical cases with instructor-led discussion about radiographic decisionmaking in these clinical situations.

(5) Evidence of student access to adequate equipment and facilities to satisfy the educational requirements as specified in this section.

(6) Evidence that the physical facilities required under this section have all of the following:

(A) A patient clinic area, laboratory, and radiology area.

(B) Access to equipment necessary to develop dental assisting skills in radiographic decisionmaking.

(C) Infection control equipment as required by the board.

(7) Evidence that the physical facilities and equipment are maintained and replaced in a manner designed to provide students with a course that will meet the educational objectives set forth in this section.

(8) Evidence that all students have access to all of the following:

(A) A hazardous waste management plan for the disposal of needles, cartridges, medical waste, and storage of oxygen and nitrous oxide tanks.

(B) A clinic hazard communication plan.

(C) A copy of the course’s bloodborne and infectious diseases exposure control plan, which shall include emergency needlestick information.

(9) Written clinical and laboratory protocols to ensure adequate asepsis, infection and hazard control, and disposal of hazardous wastes, which shall comply with the board’s regulations and other federal, state, and local requirements. The course provider shall provide such protocols to all students, faculty, and appropriate staff to assure compliance with such protocols. Adequate space shall be provided for preparing and sterilizing all armamentaria.

(10) Evidence that the course is established at the postsecondary educational level.

(b) The course content may be incorporated into a current registered dental assistant in extended functions program.

(c) For course enrollment, the course provider shall ensure submission by the student of satisfactory evidence of both of the following requirements:

(1) A current, active license as a registered dental assistant in extended functions issued on or after January 1, 2010.

(2) A current certification in basic life support from American Red Cross, American Heart Association, American Safety and Health Institute, American Dental Association’s Continuing Education Recognition Program, or Academy of General Dentistry’s Program Approval for Continuing Education.

(d) The program or course director shall do both of the following:

(1) Ensure all faculty involved in clinical evaluation of students maintain currency in evaluation protocols for interim therapeutic restoration placement and radiographic decisionmaking.

(2) Ensure that all faculty responsible for clinical evaluation have completed a one-hour methodology course in clinical evaluation for interim therapeutic restoration placement and radiographic decisionmaking before instruction.

(e) Satisfactory completion of a course in interim therapeutic restoration and radiographic decisionmaking is determined using criteria-referenced completion standards, where the instructor determines when the trainee has achieved competency based on these standards, but trainees take varying amounts of time to achieve competency. Any student who does not achieve competency in this duty in the specified period of instruction may receive additional training and evaluation. In cases where, in the judgment of the faculty, students are not making adequate progress, they shall be discontinued from the program.

(f) Each student shall pass a written examination which reflects the entire curriculum content.

(g) Each student shall pass a simulated clinical examination in which the student successfully completes the application of three of the five interim therapeutic restoration placements required for clinical instruction under faculty supervision.

(h) Each approved course shall be subject to board review at any time for compliance with the requirements under this section. The board may withdraw approval at any time that it determines that the course does not meet the requirements set forth in this section.

(i) The program or course director shall be responsible for notifying the board in writing of any changes to the course content, physical facilities, and faculty within 10 days of such changes.

(j) The board may adopt regulations to implement this section.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 60. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


text:
(a) A registered dental assistant in extended functions is authorized to perform the additional duties as set forth in subdivision (b) pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of a supervising dentist, if the licensee meets one of the following requirements:

(1) Is licensed on or after January 1, 2010.

(2) Is licensed before January 1, 2010, and has successfully completed a board-approved course in the additional procedures specified in Section 1753.5.

(b) (1) Determine which radiographs to perform on a patient who has not received an initial examination by the supervising dentist for the specific purpose of the dentist making a diagnosis and treatment plan for the patient. In these circumstances, the dental assistant in extended functions shall follow protocols established by the supervising dentist. This paragraph only applies in the following settings:

(A) In a dental office setting.

(B) In public health settings, using telehealth, as defined by Section 2290.5, for the purpose of communication with the supervising dentist, including, but not limited to, schools, Head Start and preschool programs, and community clinics, under the general supervision of a dentist.

(2) Place protective restorations, which for this purpose are identified as interim therapeutic restorations, and defined as a direct provisional restoration placed to stabilize the tooth until a licensed dentist diagnoses the need for further definitive treatment. An interim therapeutic restoration consists of the removal of soft material from the tooth using only hand instrumentation, without the use of rotary instrumentation, and subsequent placement of an adhesive restorative material. Local anesthesia shall not be necessary for interim therapeutic restoration placement. Interim therapeutic restorations shall be placed only in accordance with both of the following:

(A) In either of the following settings:

(i) In a dental office setting, under the direct or general supervision of a dentist as determined by the dentist.

(ii) In public health settings, using telehealth, as defined by Section 2290.5, for the purpose of communication with the supervising dentist, including, but not limited to, schools, Head Start and preschool programs, and community clinics, under the general supervision of a dentist.

(B) After the diagnosis, treatment plan, and instruction to perform the procedure provided by a dentist.

(c) The functions described in subdivision (b) may be performed by a registered dental assistant in extended functions only after completion of a program that includes training in performing those functions, or after providing evidence, satisfactory to the board, of having completed a board-approved course in those functions.

(d) The board may issue a permit to a registered dental assistant in extended functions who files a completed application, including the fee, to provide the duties specified in this section after the board has determined the registered dental assistant in extended functions has completed the coursework required in subdivision (c).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 61. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


text:
(a) A radiation safety course shall have the primary purpose of providing theory, laboratory, and clinical application in radiographic techniques. The board shall approve only those courses that adhere to the minimum requirements of this section.

(b) A radiation safety course provider applying for initial board approval shall submit a completed application for course approval, on a form provided by the board, accompanied by the applicable fee. The board may approve or deny approval after it evaluates all components of the course.

(c) Continuation of approval will be contingent upon continued compliance with Sections 1070 and 1070.1 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations and all requirements set forth in this section. The board may withdraw approval at any time that it determines that the course does not meet the requirements set forth in this subdivision.

(d) Providers shall make adequate provisions for appropriate supervision, operation, and facilities when used for laboratory and preclinical instruction.

(e) A course in radiation safety shall be of sufficient duration for the student to achieve minimum competence, but in no event less than 32 hours, including at least 8 hours of didactic instruction, at least 12 hours of laboratory instruction, and at least 12 hours of supervised clinical instruction.

(f) A course shall establish specific instructional objectives. The theoretical aspects of the course shall provide the content necessary for students to make safe and ethical judgments regarding radiation safety.

(g) Objective evaluation criteria shall be used for measuring student progress. Students shall be provided with specific performance objectives and the evaluation criteria that will be used for all evaluation and testing procedures.

(h) Areas of didactic instruction shall include, at a minimum, all of the following:

(1) Radiation physics and biology.

(2) Radiation protection and safety.

(3) Recognition of normal intraoral and extraoral anatomical landmarks.

(4) Radiograph exposure and processing techniques.

(5) Radiograph mounting or sequencing, and viewing, including anatomical landmarks of the oral cavity.

(6) Intraoral techniques including holding devices and image receptors.

(7) Proper use of patient protection devices and personal protective equipment for operator use.

(8) Identification and correction of faulty radiographs.

(9) Introduction to contemporary equipment and devices including the use of computerized digital radiography and extraoral imaging that may include panographs or cone-beam imaging.

(10) Techniques and exposure guidelines for a variety of patients including, but not limited to, adult, pediatric, edentulous, partially edentulous, endodontic, and patients with special needs.

(11) Radiographic record management.

(i) For the student to achieve minimum competence in the application of dental radiographic techniques and radiation safety, all the following shall be met by a board-approved course:

(1) Successful completion of laboratory experiences consisting of at least two bitewing radiographic series and two full mouth intraoral radiographic series using an x-ray training mannequin designed for radiographic exposures utilizing any dental radiographic image receptor or device deemed appropriate by the course director.

(2) Successful completion of clinical experiences consisting of at least three full-mouth intraoral radiographic series using any dental radiographic image receptor or device deemed appropriate by the course director or supervising dentist.

(j) All clinical radiographs shall be made using diagnostic criteria established by the course of instruction and shall in no event exceed three reexposures per series.

(k) Before the student’s performance of procedures on patients, the student shall provide evidence to the radiation safety course provider of having completed a board-approved eight-hour course in infection control and current, valid certification in basic life support.

(l) Completion of student and instructor written evaluations of each radiographic series identifying errors, causes of error, correction of errors, and, if applicable, the number of reexposures necessary for successful completion of a series to clinical competency.

(m) The student shall successfully complete a comprehensive written exam prior to the completion of the course. The exam shall include questions specific to items addressed in Article 4 (commencing with Section 30305) of Group 3 of Subchapter 4 of Chapter 5 of Division 1 of Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations relative to the special requirements for the use of x-ray in the healing arts.

(n) Extramural dental facilities may be utilized by a course for the purposes of clinical experiences. Clinical oversight shall be performed under the general supervision of a licensed dentist who shall authorize the student to perform, at minimum, three radiographic series. Didactic and laboratory instruction shall be provided only by course faculty or instructional staff prior to clinical performances.

(o) Programs and courses using extramural dental faculties for dental radiographic clinical experiences shall provide to the board, upon request or renewal of provider status, copies of all contracts of affiliation and documentation demonstrating compliance with board regulations.

(p) Upon successful completion of the course, students shall receive a certificate of completion as defined in subdivision (e) of Section 1741.

(q) The board may adopt regulations to implement this section.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 64. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1755

text:
(a) A course in infection control is one that has as its main purpose providing theory and clinical application in infection control practices and principles where the protection of the public is its primary focus.

(b) An unlicensed dental assistant not enrolled in a board-approved program for registered dental assisting or an alternative dental assisting program as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 1741, shall complete one of the following infection control certification courses:

(1) A board-approved eight-hour course, with six hours being didactic instruction and two hours being laboratory instruction.

(2) A board-approved eight-hour course, with six hours of didactic instruction and at least two hours of laboratory instruction using video or a series of video training tools, all of which may be delivered using asynchronous, synchronous, or online learning mechanisms or a combination thereof.

(c) A course shall establish specific instructional objectives. Instruction shall provide the content necessary for students to make safe and ethical judgments regarding infection control and asepsis.

(d) Objective evaluation criteria shall be used for measuring student progress. Students shall be provided with specific performance objectives and the evaluation criteria that will be used for didactic testing.

(e) Didactic instruction shall include, at a minimum, all of the following as they relate to Cal/OSHA regulations, as set forth in Sections 300 to 344.85, inclusive, of Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations, and the board’s Minimum Standards for Infection Control, as set forth in Section 1005 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations:

(1) Basic dental science and microbiology as they relate to infection control in dentistry.

(2) Legal and ethical aspects of infection control procedures.

(3) Terms and protocols specified in Section 1005 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations regarding the minimum standards for infection control.

(4) Principles of modes of disease transmission and prevention.

(5) Principles, techniques, and protocols of hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, surface barriers and disinfection, sterilization, sanitation, and hazardous chemicals associated with infection control.

(6) Principles and protocols of sterilizer monitoring and the proper loading, unloading, storage, and transportation of instruments to work area.

(7) Principles and protocols associated with sharps management.

(8) Principles and protocols of infection control for laboratory areas.

(9) Principles and protocols of waterline maintenance.

(10) Principles and protocols of regulated and nonregulated waste management.

(11) Principles and protocols related to injury and illness prevention, hazard communication, general office safety, exposure control, postexposure requirements, and monitoring systems for radiation safety and sterilization systems.

(f) Upon successful completion of the course, students shall receive a certificate of completion as defined in subdivision (e) of Section 1741.

(g) The board may adopt regulations to implement this section.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 65. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1765

text:
No person other than a licensed dental hygienist or a licensed dentist may engage in the practice of dental hygiene or perform dental hygiene procedures on patients, including, but not limited to, supragingival and subgingival scaling, dental hygiene assessment, and treatment planning, except for the following persons:

(a) A student enrolled in a dental or a dental hygiene school who is performing procedures as part of the regular curriculum of that program under the supervision of the faculty of that program.

(b) A dental assistant, registered dental assistant, or registered dental assistant in extended functions acting in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

(c) A registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions licensed in another jurisdiction performing a clinical demonstration for educational purposes.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 499, Sec. 42. Effective January 1, 2009.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1767

text: The board shall adopt regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this article.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 31, Sec. 38. Effective January 1, 2009. Operative July 1, 2009, by Sec. 55 of Ch. 31.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1771

text: Any person, other than a person who has been issued a license or permit by the board, who holds himself or herself out as a registered dental assistant, orthodontic assistant permitholder, dental sedation assistant permitholder, or registered dental assistant in extended functions, or uses any other term indicating or implying he or she is licensed or permitted by the board as such, is guilty of a misdemeanor.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 499, Sec. 45. Effective January 1, 2009.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1773

text:
The provisions of Sections 1715, 1718, 1718.1, 1718.2, and 1718.3 shall govern the renewal, restoration, reinstatement, and reissuance of licenses issued under this article.

The license shall continue in effect through the date provided in Section 1715 that next occurs after its issuance, when it shall expire if not renewed.

history: (History: Added by renumbering Section 1766 by Stats. 2002, Ch. 810, Sec. 17. Effective January 1, 2003.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1777

text:
While employed by or practicing in a primary care clinic or specialty clinic licensed pursuant to Section 1204 of the Health and Safety Code, in a primary care clinic exempt from licensure pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 1206 of the Health and Safety Code, or a clinic owned and operated by a hospital that maintains the primary contract with a county government to fill the county’s role under Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, the following shall apply:

(a) A dental assistant, registered dental assistant, or registered dental assistant in extended functions may perform any extraoral duty under the direct supervision of a registered dental hygienist or registered dental hygienist in alternative practice.

(b) A registered dental assistant or a registered dental assistant in extended functions may perform the following procedures under the direct supervision of a registered dental hygienist or a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 1763:

(1) Coronal polishing.

(2) Application of topical fluoride.

(3) Application of sealants, after providing evidence to the board of having completed a board-approved course in that procedure.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 499, Sec. 46. Effective January 1, 2009.)

article: 7. Dental Auxiliaries


citation: BPC § 1800

text: A dental corporation is a corporation that is authorized to render professional services, as defined in Sections 13401 and 13401.5 of the Corporations Code, if that corporation, its shareholders, officers, directors, and employees rendering professional services who are dentists, physicians and surgeons, dental assistants, registered dental assistants, registered dental assistants in extended functions, registered dental hygienists, registered dental hygienists in extended functions, or registered dental hygienists in alternative practice are in compliance with the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Part 4 (commencing with Section 13400) of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), this article, and other statutes, rules, and regulations applicable to a dental corporation and the conduct of its affairs. Subject to all applicable statutes, rules, and regulations, a dental corporation is entitled to practice dentistry. With respect to a dental corporation, the governmental agency referred to in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act is the Dental Board of California.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 549, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2004.)

article: 8. Dental Corporations

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 4. Dentistry > 8. Dental Corporations


citation: BPC § 1804

text: Notwithstanding subdivision (i) of Section 1680 and paragraph (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 1701, the name of a dental corporation and any name or names under which it may be rendering professional services shall include the words “dental corporation” or wording or abbreviations denoting corporate existence.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 66. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 8. Dental Corporations


citation: BPC § 1805

text: Except as provided in Sections 13401.5 and 13403 of the Corporations Code, each director, shareholder, and officer of a dental corporation shall be a licensed person as defined in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 549, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2004.)

article: 8. Dental Corporations


citation: BPC § 1806

text: The income of a dental corporation attributable to professional services rendered while a shareholder is a disqualified person (as defined in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act) shall not in any manner accrue to the benefit of that shareholder or his or her shares in the dental corporation.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 168, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1998.)

article: 8. Dental Corporations


citation: BPC § 1807

text: A dental corporation shall not do or fail to do any act the doing of which or the failure to do which would constitute unprofessional conduct under any statute, rule or regulation now or hereafter in effect. In the conduct of its practice, it shall observe and be bound by such statutes, rules and regulations to the same extent as a person holding a license under Section 1634 of this code. The board shall have the same powers of suspension, revocation and discipline against a dental corporation as are now or hereafter authorized by Section 1670 of this code, or by any other similar statute against individual licensees, provided, however, that proceedings against a dental corporation shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and the board shall have all the powers granted therein.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1968, Ch. 1375.)

article: 8. Dental Corporations


citation: BPC § 1808

text: The board may formulate and enforce rules and regulations to carry out the purposes and objectives of this article and the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act, including rules and regulations requiring (a) that the articles of incorporation or bylaws of a dental corporation shall include a provision whereby the capital stock of that corporation owned by a disqualified person (as defined in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act), or a deceased person, shall be sold to the corporation or to the remaining shareholders of that corporation within the time as the rules and regulations may provide, and (b) that a dental corporation shall provide adequate security by insurance or otherwise for claims against it by its patients arising out of the rendering of professional services.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 168, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 1998.)

article: 8. Dental Corporations


citation: BPC § 1900

text: It is the intent of the Legislature by enactment of this article to permit the full utilization of registered dental hygienists, registered dental hygienists in alternative practice, and registered dental hygienists in extended functions in order to meet the dental care needs of all of the state’s citizens.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2008, Ch. 31, Sec. 47. Effective January 1, 2009. Operative July 1, 2009, by Sec. 55 of Ch. 31.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists

path: 2. HEALING ARTS > 4. Dentistry > 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1901

text:
(a) There is hereby created in the Department of Consumer Affairs a Dental Hygiene Board of California in which the administration of this article is vested.

(b) Whenever the terms “Dental Hygiene Committee of California” or “committee” are used in this article, they mean the Dental Hygiene Board of California.

(c) Whenever the term “Dental Hygiene Committee of California” is used in any other law, it means the Dental Hygiene Board of California.

(d) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed. Notwithstanding any other law, the repeal of this section renders the dental hygiene board subject to review by the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 592, Sec. 5. (SB 861) Effective January 1, 2026. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1902

text:
For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:

(a) “Dental hygiene board” means the Dental Hygiene Board of California.

(b) “Dental board” means the Dental Board of California.

(c) “Direct supervision” means the supervision of dental procedures based on instructions given by a licensed dentist who is required to be physically present in the treatment facility during the performance of those procedures.

(d) “General supervision” means the supervision of dental procedures based on instructions given by a licensed dentist who is not required to be physically present in the treatment facility during the performance of those procedures.

(e) “Oral prophylaxis” means preventive and therapeutic dental procedures that include bacterial debridements with complete removal, supra and subgingivally, of calculus, soft deposits, plaque, and stains, and the smoothing of tooth surfaces. The objective of this treatment is to create an environment in which the patient can maintain healthy hard and soft tissues.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 2. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text: Protection of the public shall be the highest priority for the dental hygiene board in exercising its licensing, regulatory, and disciplinary functions. Whenever the protection of the public is inconsistent with other interests sought to be promoted, the protection of the public shall be paramount.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 3. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) A licensee shall report, upon initial licensure and any subsequent application for renewal or inactive license, the practice or employment status of the licensee, designated as one of the following:

(1) Full-time practice or employment in a dental or dental hygiene practice of 32 hours per week or more in California.

(2) Full-time practice or employment in a dental or dental hygiene practice of 32 hours or more outside of California.

(3) Part-time practice or employment in a dental or dental hygiene practice for less than 32 hours per week in California.

(4) Part-time practice or employment in a dental or dental hygiene practice for less than 32 hours per week outside of California.

(5) Dental hygiene administrative employment that does not include direct patient care, as may be further defined by the dental hygiene board.

(6) Retired.

(7) Other practice or employment status, as may be further defined by the dental hygiene board.

(b) Information collected pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be posted on the internet website of the dental hygiene board.

(c) (1) A licensee may report on an application for renewal, and the dental hygiene board, as appropriate, shall collect, information regarding the licensee’s cultural background and foreign language proficiency.

(2) Information collected pursuant to this subdivision shall be aggregated on an annual basis, based on categories utilized by the dental hygiene board in the collection of the data, into both statewide totals and ZIP Code of primary practice or employment location totals.

(3) Aggregated information under this subdivision shall be compiled annually, and reported on the internet website of the dental hygiene board as appropriate, on or before July 1 of each year.

(d) It is the intent of the Legislature to utilize moneys in the State Dental Hygiene Fund to pay any cost incurred by the dental hygiene board in implementing this section.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 4. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
A registered dental hygienist licensed in another state may teach in a dental hygiene college without being licensed in this state if the person has a special permit. A special permit shall remain valid for a period of four years, subject to subdivision (g), after which time the permit shall not be renewed. The dental hygiene board may issue a special permit to practice dental hygiene in a discipline at a dental hygiene college in this state to any person who submits an application and satisfies all of the following eligibility requirements:

(a) Furnishing satisfactory evidence of having a pending contract with a California dental hygiene college approved by the dental hygiene board as a full-time or part-time professor, associate professor, assistant professor, faculty member, or instructor.

(b) Furnishing satisfactory evidence of having graduated from a dental hygiene college approved by the dental hygiene board.

(c) Furnishing satisfactory evidence of having been certified as a diplomate of a specialty committee or, in lieu thereof, establishing qualifications to take a specialty committee examination or furnishing satisfactory evidence of having completed an advanced educational program in a discipline from a dental hygiene college approved by the dental hygiene board.

(d) Furnishing satisfactory evidence of having successfully completed an examination in California law and ethics developed and administered by the dental hygiene board.

(e) If teaching during clinical practice sessions, furnishing satisfactory evidence of having successfully completed a course in periodontal soft-tissue curettage, local anesthesia, and nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia approved by the dental hygiene board.

(f) Complying with the fingerprint submission requirements as provided by Section 1916.

(g) Paying an application fee, subject to a biennial renewal fee, as provided by subdivision (k) of Section 1944.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 491, Sec. 1. (SB 534) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1903

text:
(a) (1) The dental hygiene board shall consist of nine members as follows:

(A) Seven members appointed by the Governor as follows:

(i) Two members shall be public members.

(ii) One member shall be a practicing general or public health dentist who holds a current license in California.

(iii) Four members shall be registered dental hygienists who hold current licenses in California. Of the registered dental hygienist members, one shall be licensed either in alternative practice or in extended functions, one shall be a dental hygiene educator, and two shall be registered dental hygienists. No public member shall have been licensed under this chapter within five years of the date of their appointment or have any current financial interest in a dental-related business.

(B) One public member appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules.

(C) One public member appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly.

(2) The first appointment by the Senate Committee on Rules or the Speaker of the Assembly pursuant to this subdivision shall be made upon the expiration of the term of a public member that is scheduled to occur, or otherwise occurs, on or after January 1, 2019.

(3) For purposes of this subdivision, a public health dentist is a dentist whose primary employer or place of employment is in any of the following:

(A) A primary care clinic licensed under subdivision (a) of Section 1204 of the Health and Safety Code.

(B) A primary care clinic exempt from licensure pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 1206 of the Health and Safety Code.

(C) A clinic owned or operated by a public hospital or health system.

(D) A clinic owned and operated by a hospital that maintains the primary contract with a county government to fill the county’s role under Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(b) (1) Except as specified in paragraph (2), members of the dental hygiene board shall be appointed for a term of four years. Each member shall hold office until the appointment and qualification of the member’s successor or until one year shall have lapsed since the expiration of the term for which the member was appointed, whichever comes first.

(2) For the term commencing on January 1, 2012, two of the public members, the general or public health dentist member, and two of the registered dental hygienist members, other than the dental hygiene educator member or the registered dental hygienist member licensed in alternative practice or in extended functions, shall each serve a term of two years, expiring January 1, 2014.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of law and subject to subdivision (e), the Governor may appoint to the dental hygiene board a person who previously served as a member of the former committee or dental hygiene board even if the person’s previous term expired.

(d) The dental hygiene board shall elect a president, a vice president, and a secretary from its membership.

(e) No person shall serve as a member of the dental hygiene board for more than two consecutive terms.

(f) A vacancy in the dental hygiene board shall be filled by appointment to the unexpired term.

(g) Each member of the dental hygiene board shall receive a per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103.

(h) Each appointing authority shall have the power to remove from office at any time any member of the dental hygiene board appointed by that authority pursuant to Section 106.

(i) The dental hygiene board, with the approval of the director, may appoint a person exempt from civil service who shall be designated as an executive officer and who shall exercise the powers and perform the duties delegated by the dental hygiene board and vested in the executive officer by this article.

(j) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 592, Sec. 6. (SB 861) Effective January 1, 2026. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1904

text: The dental hygiene board shall meet at least two times each calendar year and shall conduct additional meetings in appropriate locations that are necessary to transact its business.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 7. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1905

text:
(a) The dental hygiene board shall perform the following functions:

(1) Evaluate all registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, and registered dental hygienist in extended functions educational programs that apply for approval and grant or deny approval of those applications in accordance with regulations adopted by the dental hygiene board. Any such educational programs approved by the dental board on or before June 30, 2009, shall be deemed approved by the dental hygiene board. Any dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation may be approved.

(2) Withdraw or revoke its prior approval of a registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions educational program in accordance with regulations adopted by the dental hygiene board. The dental hygiene board may withdraw or revoke a dental hygiene program approval if the Commission on Dental Accreditation has indicated an intent to withdraw approval or has withdrawn approval.

(3) Review and evaluate all registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, and registered dental hygienist in extended functions applications for licensure to ascertain whether the applicant meets the appropriate licensing requirements specified by statute and regulations, maintain application records, cashier application fees, issue and renew licenses, and perform any other tasks that are incidental to the application and licensure processes.

(4) Determine the appropriate type of license examination consistent with the provisions of this article, and develop or cause to be developed and administer examinations in accordance with regulations adopted by the dental hygiene board.

(5) Determine the amount of fees assessed under this article, not to exceed the actual cost.

(6) Determine and enforce the continuing education requirements specified in Section 1936.1.

(7) Deny, suspend, or revoke a license under this article, or otherwise enforce the provisions of this article. Any such proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and the dental hygiene board shall have all of the powers granted therein.

(8) Adopt, amend, and revoke rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this article, including the amount of required supervision by a registered dental hygienist, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or a registered dental hygienist in extended functions of a registered dental assistant.

(b) The dental hygiene board may employ employees and examiners that it deems necessary to carry out its functions and responsibilities under this article.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 592, Sec. 7. (SB 861) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text: The dental hygiene board may contract with the dental board to carry out this article. The dental hygiene board may contract with the dental board to perform investigations of applicants and licensees under this article.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 9. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1906

text:
(a) The dental hygiene board shall adopt, amend, and revoke regulations to implement the requirements of this article.

(b) All regulations adopted by the dental hygiene board shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.

(c) No regulation adopted by the dental hygiene board shall impose a requirement or a prohibition directly upon a licensed dentist or on the administration of a dental office, unless specifically authorized by this article.

(d) Unless contrary to the provisions of this article, regulations adopted by the dental board shall continue to apply to registered dental hygienists, registered dental hygienists in alternative practice, and registered dental hygienists in extended functions until other regulations are adopted by the dental hygiene board. All references in those regulations to “board” shall mean the dental hygiene board, which shall solely enforce the regulations with respect to registered dental hygienists, registered dental hygienists in alternative practice, and registered dental hygienists in extended functions.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 11. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1907

text:
The following functions may be performed by a registered dental hygienist, in addition to those authorized pursuant to Sections 1908 to 1914, inclusive:

(a) All functions that may be performed by a registered dental assistant.

(b) All persons holding a license as a registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions as of December 31, 2005, are authorized to perform the duties of a registered dental assistant specified in this chapter. All persons issued a license as a registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions on or after January 1, 2006, shall apply for and receive a registered dental assistant license in accordance with subdivision (d) of Section 1752.1 and successfully complete any additional education required by subdivision (b) of Section 1752.4 prior to performance of the duties of a registered dental assistant specified in this chapter.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 483, Sec. 67. (SB 1453) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1908

text:
(a) The practice of dental hygiene includes dental hygiene assessment and development, planning, and implementation of a dental hygiene care plan. It also includes oral health education, counseling, and health screenings.

(b) The practice of dental hygiene does not include any of the following procedures:

(1) Diagnosis and comprehensive treatment planning.

(2) Placing, condensing, carving, or removal of permanent restorations.

(3) Surgery or cutting on hard and soft tissue including, but not limited to, the removal of teeth and the cutting and suturing of soft tissue.

(4) Prescribing medication.

(5) Administering local or general anesthesia or oral or parenteral conscious sedation, except for the administration of nitrous oxide and oxygen, whether administered alone or in combination with each other, or local anesthesia pursuant to Section 1909.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1909

text:
A registered dental hygienist is authorized to perform the following procedures under direct supervision of a licensed dentist, after submitting to the dental hygiene board evidence of satisfactory completion of a course of instruction, approved by the dental hygiene board, in the procedures:

(a) Soft-tissue curettage.

(b) Administration of local anesthesia.

(c) Administration of nitrous oxide and oxygen, whether administered alone or in combination with each other.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 12. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1910

text:
A registered dental hygienist is authorized to perform the following procedures under general supervision:

(a) Preventive and therapeutic interventions, including oral prophylaxis, scaling, and root planing.

(b) Application of topical, therapeutic, and subgingival agents used for the control of caries and periodontal disease.

(c) The taking of impressions for bleaching trays and application and activation of agents with nonlaser, light-curing devices.

(d) The taking of impressions for bleaching trays and placements of in-office, tooth-whitening devices.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) In addition to the duties specified in Section 1910, a registered dental hygienist is authorized to perform the following additional duties, as specified:

(1) Determine which radiographs to perform on a patient who has not received an initial examination by the supervising dentist for the specific purpose of the dentist making a diagnosis and treatment plan for the patient. In these circumstances, the dental hygienist shall follow protocols established by the supervising dentist. This paragraph only applies in the following settings:

(A) In a dental office setting.

(B) In a public health setting, using telehealth, as defined by Section 2290.5, for the purpose of communication with the supervising dentist, including, but not limited to, schools, head start and preschool programs, and community clinics.

(2) Place protective restorations, which for this purpose are identified as interim therapeutic restorations, and defined as a direct provisional restoration placed to stabilize the tooth until a licensed dentist diagnoses the need for further definitive treatment. An interim therapeutic restoration consists of the removal of soft material from the tooth using only hand instrumentation, without the use of rotary instrumentation, and subsequent placement of an adhesive restorative material. Local anesthesia shall not be necessary for interim therapeutic restoration placement. Interim therapeutic restorations shall be placed only in accordance with both of the following:

(A) In either of the following settings:

(i) In a dental office setting.

(ii) In a public health setting, using telehealth, as defined by Section 2290.5, for the purpose of communication with the supervising dentist, including, but not limited to, schools, head start and preschool programs, and community clinics.

(B) After the diagnosis, treatment plan, and instruction to perform the procedure provided by a dentist.

(b) The functions described in subdivision (a) may be performed by a registered dental hygienist only after completion of a program that includes training in performing those functions, or after providing evidence, satisfactory to the dental hygiene board, of having completed a dental hygiene board-approved course in those functions.

(c) No later than January 1, 2018, the dental hygiene board shall adopt regulations to establish requirements for courses of instruction for the procedures authorized to be performed by a registered dental hygienist and registered dental hygienist in alternative practice pursuant to Sections 1910.5 and 1926.05, using the competency-based training protocols established by the Health Workforce Pilot Project (HWPP) No. 172 through the Department of Health Care Access and Information. The dental hygiene board shall use the curriculum submitted by the dental board pursuant to Section 1753.55 to adopt regulatory language for approval of courses of instruction for the interim therapeutic restoration. Any subsequent amendments to the regulations for the interim therapeutic restoration curriculum that are promulgated by the dental hygiene board shall be agreed upon by the dental board and the dental hygiene board.

(d) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2018.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 7. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1911

text:
(a) A registered dental hygienist may provide, without supervision, educational services, oral health training programs, and oral health screenings.

(b) A registered dental hygienist shall refer any screened patients with possible oral abnormalities to a dentist for a comprehensive examination, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

(c) In any public health program created by federal, state, or local law or administered by a federal, state, county, or local governmental entity, at a sponsored event by a sponsoring entity or at a nonprofit organization, a registered dental hygienist may provide, without supervision, dental hygiene preventive services in addition to oral screenings, including, but not limited to, the application of fluorides and pit and fissure sealants. A registered dental hygienist practicing as described in this subdivision may submit, or allow to be submitted, any insurance or third-party claims for patient services performed as authorized in this article.

(d) For purposes of this section, the following shall apply:

(1) “Nonprofit organization” means a tax-exempt nonprofit corporation supported and maintained in whole or in substantial part by donations, bequests, gifts, grants, government funds, or contributions, in the form of money, goods, or services, where dental hygiene services are performed. A nonprofit organization shall not be construed to be engaging in the unlicensed practice of dentistry.

(2) “Sponsored event” shall be defined as in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 1626.6.

(3) “Sponsoring entity” shall be defined as in paragraph (6) of subdivision (b) of Section 1626.6.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2020, Ch. 130, Sec. 1. (SB 653) Effective January 1, 2021.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text: Notwithstanding Section 1912, a registered dental hygienist may provide, without supervision, fluoride varnish to a patient.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2020, Ch. 130, Sec. 2. (SB 653) Effective January 1, 2021.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1912

text: Any procedure performed or service provided by a registered dental hygienist that does not specifically require direct supervision shall require general supervision, so long as it does not give rise to a situation in the dentist’s office requiring immediate services for alleviation of severe pain, or immediate diagnosis and treatment of unforeseeable dental conditions that, if not immediately diagnosed and treated, would lead to serious disability or death.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1913

text: Unless otherwise specified in this chapter, a registered dental hygienist may perform any procedure or provide any service within the scope of their practice in any setting under the appropriate level of supervision required by this article, if the registered dental hygienist has completed the appropriate education and training required to perform the procedure or provide the service.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2020, Ch. 312, Sec. 11. (SB 1474) Effective January 1, 2021.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1914

text: A registered dental hygienist may use any material or device approved for use in the performance of a service or procedure within his or her scope of practice under the appropriate level of supervision, if he or she has the appropriate education and training required to use the material or device.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2008, Ch. 31, Sec. 47. Effective January 1, 2009. Operative July 1, 2009, by Sec. 55 of Ch. 31.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1915

text:
No person other than a registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions or a licensed dentist may engage in the practice of dental hygiene or perform dental hygiene procedures on patients, including, but not limited to, supragingival and subgingival scaling, dental hygiene assessment, and treatment planning, except for the following persons:

(a) A student enrolled in a dental or a dental hygiene school who is performing procedures as part of the regular curriculum of that program under the supervision of the faculty of that program.

(b) A dental assistant acting in accordance with the rules of the dental board in performing the following procedures:

(1) Applying nonaerosol and noncaustic topical agents.

(2) Applying topical fluoride.

(3) Taking impressions for bleaching trays.

(c) A registered dental assistant acting in accordance with the rules of the dental board in performing the following procedures:

(1) Polishing the coronal surfaces of teeth.

(2) Applying bleaching agents.

(3) Activating bleaching agents with a nonlaser light-curing device.

(4) Applying pit and fissure sealants.

(d) A registered dental assistant in extended functions acting in accordance with the rules of the dental board in applying pit and fissure sealants.

(e) A registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions licensed in another jurisdiction, performing a clinical demonstration for educational purposes.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 473, Sec. 2. (SB 821) Effective January 1, 2014.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1916

text:
(a) (1) An applicant for licensure under this article shall furnish electronic fingerprint images for submission to state and federal criminal justice agencies, including, but not limited to, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in order to establish the identity of the applicant and for the other purposes described in this section.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an out-of-state applicant or licensee residing out of state for whom an electronic record of the licensee’s fingerprints does not exist shall furnish a hardcopy of the applicant’s or licensee’s fingerprint card if electronic fingerprint images are not available or shared in the applicant’s or licensee’s state of residence.

(b) The dental hygiene board shall submit the fingerprint images or card to the Department of Justice for the purposes of obtaining criminal offender record information regarding state and federal level convictions and arrests, including arrests for which the Department of Justice establishes that the person is free on bail or on their own recognizance pending trial or appeal.

(c) When received, the Department of Justice shall forward to the Federal Bureau of Investigation requests for federal summary criminal history information received pursuant to this section. The Department of Justice shall review the information returned from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and compile and disseminate the response to the dental hygiene board.

(d) The Department of Justice shall provide a response to the dental hygiene board pursuant to subdivision (p) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code.

(e) The dental hygiene board shall request from the Department of Justice subsequent arrest notification service, as provided pursuant to Section 11105.2 of the Penal Code.

(f) The information obtained as a result of the fingerprinting shall be used in accordance with Section 11105 of the Penal Code, and to determine whether the applicant is subject to denial of licensure pursuant to Division 1.5 (commencing with Section 475) or Section 1943.

(g) The Department of Justice shall charge a fee sufficient to cover the cost of processing the request described in this section.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 14. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1917

text:
The dental hygiene board shall grant initial licensure as a registered dental hygienist to a person who satisfies all of the following requirements:

(a) Completion of an educational program for registered dental hygienists, approved by the dental hygiene board, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, and conducted by a degree-granting, postsecondary institution.

(b) Within the preceding three years, a person completed either of the following:

(1) Satisfactory completion of the dental hygiene examination given by the Western Regional Examining Board or any other clinical or dental hygiene examination approved by the dental hygiene board.

(2) Graduation from a California accredited dental hygiene college approved by the dental hygiene board.

(c) Satisfactory completion of the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.

(d) Satisfactory completion of the examination in California law and ethics as prescribed by the dental hygiene board.

(e) Submission of a completed application form and all fees required by the dental hygiene board.

(f) Satisfactory completion of dental hygiene board-approved instruction in gingival soft-tissue curettage, nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia, and local anesthesia.

(g) Current, valid certification in basic life support offered by a course consistent with Section 1016, 1016.2, or 1017 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 677, Sec. 3. (AB 1257) Effective January 1, 2024.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) The dental hygiene board may grant a license as a registered dental hygienist to an applicant who has not taken a clinical examination before the dental hygiene board, if the applicant submits all of the following to the dental hygiene board:

(1) A completed application form and all fees required by the dental hygiene board.

(2) Proof of a current license as a registered dental hygienist issued by another state that is not revoked, suspended, or otherwise restricted.

(3) Proof that the applicant has been in clinical practice as a registered dental hygienist or has been a full-time faculty member in an accredited dental hygiene education program for a minimum of 750 hours per year for at least five years immediately preceding the date of application under this section. The clinical practice requirement shall be deemed met if the applicant provides proof of at least three years of clinical practice and commits to completing the remaining two years of clinical practice by filing with the dental hygiene board a copy of a pending contract to practice dental hygiene in any of the following facilities:

(A) A primary care clinic licensed under subdivision (a) of Section 1204 of the Health and Safety Code.

(B) A primary care clinic exempt from licensure pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 1206 of the Health and Safety Code.

(C) A clinic owned or operated by a public hospital or health system.

(D) A clinic owned and operated by a hospital that maintains the primary contract with a county government to fill the county’s role under Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(4) Satisfactory performance on a California law and ethics examination and any examination that may be required by the dental hygiene board.

(5) Proof that the applicant has not been subject to disciplinary action by any state in which the applicant is or has been previously issued any professional or vocational license. If the applicant has been subject to disciplinary action, the dental hygiene board shall review that action to determine if it warrants refusal to issue a license to the applicant.

(6) Proof of graduation from a school of dental hygiene accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

(7) Proof of satisfactory completion of the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and of a state clinical examination, regional clinical licensure examination, or any other clinical dental hygiene examination approved by the dental hygiene board.

(8) Proof that the applicant has not failed the state clinical examination, the examination given by the Western Regional Examining Board, or any other clinical dental hygiene examination approved by the dental hygiene board for licensure to practice dental hygiene under this chapter more than once or once within five years prior to the date of application for a license under this section.

(9) Documentation of completion of a minimum of 25 units of continuing education earned in the two years preceding application, including completion of any continuing education requirements imposed by the dental hygiene board on registered dental hygienists licensed in this state at the time of application.

(10) Satisfactory evidence of having successfully completed a course or education and training in local anesthesia, nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia, and periodontal soft-tissue curettage approved by the dental hygiene board.

(11) Any other information as specified by the dental hygiene board to the extent that it is required of applicants for licensure by examination under this article.

(b) The dental hygiene board may periodically request verification of compliance with the requirements of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) and may revoke the license upon a finding that the employment requirement or any other requirement of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) has not been met.

(c) The dental hygiene board shall provide in the application packet to each out-of-state dental hygienist pursuant to this section the following information:

(1) The location of dental manpower shortage areas in the state.

(2) Any nonprofit clinics, public hospitals, and accredited dental hygiene education programs seeking to contract with licensees for dental hygiene service delivery or training purposes.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 491, Sec. 2. (SB 534) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text: Notwithstanding Section 135, an examinee for a registered dental hygienist license who either fails to pass the clinical examination required by Section 1917 after three attempts or fails to pass the clinical examination as a result of a single incidence of imposing gross trauma on a patient shall not be eligible for further reexamination until the examinee has successfully completed remedial education at an approved dental hygiene program or a comparable organization approved by the dental hygiene board.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 17. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1918

text:
The dental hygiene board shall license as a registered dental hygienist in extended functions a person who meets all of the following requirements:

(a) Holds a current license as a registered dental hygienist in California.

(b) Completes clinical training approved by the dental hygiene board in a facility affiliated with a dental school under the direct supervision of the dental school faculty.

(c) Performs satisfactorily on an examination required by the dental hygiene board.

(d) Completes an application form and pays all application fees required by the dental hygiene board.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 18. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1920

text:
(a) A person who holds a current and active license as a registered dental hygienist in extended functions or a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice on July 1, 2009, shall automatically be issued a license as a registered dental hygienist, unless the person holds a current and active registered dental hygienist license.

(b) A registered dental hygienist license issued pursuant to this section shall expire on the same date as the person’s registered dental hygienist, registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or registered dental hygienist in extended functions license, and shall be subject to the same renewal and other requirements imposed by law or regulation on a license.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1921

text: In addition to any other duties or functions authorized by law, a registered dental hygienist in extended functions or a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may perform any of the duties or functions authorized to be performed by a registered dental hygienist.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1922

text:
The dental hygiene board shall license as a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice a person who demonstrates satisfactory performance on an examination in California law and ethics required by the dental hygiene board and who completes an application form and pays all application fees required by the dental hygiene board and meets either of the following requirements:

(a) Holds a current California license as a registered dental hygienist and meets the following requirements:

(1) Has been engaged in the practice of dental hygiene, as defined in Section 1908, as a registered dental hygienist in any setting, including, but not limited to, educational settings and public health settings, for a minimum of 2,000 hours during the immediately preceding 36 months.

(2) Has successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, recognized as a minimum of 120 semester credit hours or 180 quarter credit hours in postsecondary education, from a college or institution of higher education that is accredited by a national or regional accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education, and a minimum of 150 hours of additional educational requirements, as prescribed by the dental hygiene board by regulation, that are consistent with good dental and dental hygiene practice, including, but not necessarily limited to, dental hygiene technique and theory including gerontology and medical emergencies, and business administration and practice management.

(b) Has received a letter of acceptance into the employment utilization phase of the Health Workforce Pilot Project No. 155 established by the Department of Health Care Access and Information pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section 128125) of Chapter 3 of Part 3 of Division 107 of the Health and Safety Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 511, Sec. 4. (SB 1495) Effective January 1, 2023.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1924

text: A person licensed as a registered dental hygienist who has completed the prescribed classes through the Health Manpower Pilot Project (HMPP) and who has established an independent practice under the HMPP by June 30, 1997, shall be deemed to have satisfied the licensing requirements under Section 1922, and shall be authorized to continue to operate the practice he or she presently operates, so long as he or she follows the requirements for prescription and functions as specified in Sections 1922, 1925, 1926, 1927, 1928, 1930, and 1931, and subdivision (b) of Section 1929, and as long as he or she continues to personally practice and operate the practice or until he or she sells the practice to a licensed dentist.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1925

text: A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may practice, pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1907, subdivision (a) of Section 1908, subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 1910, Section 1910.5, and Section 1926.05 as an employee of a dentist or of another registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, as an independent contractor, as a sole proprietor of an alternative dental hygiene practice, in a primary care clinic or specialty clinic that is licensed pursuant to Section 1204 of the Health and Safety Code, in a primary care clinic exempt from licensure pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 1206 of the Health and Safety Code, in a clinic owned or operated by a public hospital or health system, in a clinic owned and operated by a hospital that maintains the primary contract with a county government to fill the county’s role under Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, or in a professional corporation under the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (commencing with Section 13400) of Part 4 of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2020, Ch. 130, Sec. 3. (SB 653) Effective January 1, 2021.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1926

text:
In addition to practices authorized in Section 1925, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may perform the duties authorized pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 1907, subdivision (a) of Section 1908, and subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 1910 in the following settings:

(a) Residences of the homebound.

(b) Schools.

(c) Residential facilities and other institutions and medical settings that a residential facility patient has been transferred to for outpatient services.

(d) Dental health professional shortage areas, as certified by the Department of Health Care Access and Information in accordance with existing office guidelines. If the dental health professional shortage area certification is removed, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice with an existing practice in the area may continue to provide dental hygiene services, and shall annually provide patients treated at an existing practice with a list of dentists in the previous dental health professional shortage area who may be able to see the patient for comprehensive services.

(e) Dental offices.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 481, Sec. 6. (SB 1451) Effective January 1, 2025.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) In addition to practices authorized in Section 1925, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may perform the duties authorized pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 1909 with documented consultation with a collaborating dentist in the following settings:

(1) Residences of the homebound.

(2) Residential facilities and other institutions and medical settings that a residential facility patient has been transferred to for outpatient services.

(3) Dental health professional shortage areas, as certified by the Department of Health Care Access and Information in accordance with existing office guidelines.

(4) Dental offices.

(b) The registered dental hygienist in alternative practice shall have all of the following immediately available when services authorized in this section are being performed:

(1) One additional individual trained in basic life support qualified to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation during an emergency.

(2) Equipment and supplies for emergency response, including oxygen.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 511, Sec. 6. (SB 1495) Effective January 1, 2023.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may operate a mobile dental hygiene clinic in the settings listed in Section 1926.

(b) The registered dental hygienist in alternative practice shall register the mobile dental hygiene clinic with the dental hygiene board in compliance with Sections 1926.2 and 1926.3.

(c) The dental hygiene board may conduct announced and unannounced reviews and inspections of a mobile dental hygiene clinic to ensure continued compliance with the requirements for continued approval under this article.

(d) It shall constitute unprofessional conduct if the mobile dental hygiene clinic is found to be noncompliant with any requirements necessary for licensure, and the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may be placed on probation with terms, issued a citation and fine, or have the mobile dental hygiene clinic registration withdrawn if compliance is not demonstrated within reasonable timelines, as established by the dental hygiene board.

(e) The dental hygiene board, by itself or through an authorized representative, may issue a citation containing fines and orders of abatement to the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice for any violation of this section, Section 1926.2, Section 1926.3, or any regulations adopted thereunder. Any fine collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the State Dental Hygiene Fund established pursuant to Section 1944.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 491, Sec. 3. (SB 534) Effective January 1, 2022.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may operate one mobile dental hygiene clinic registered as a dental hygiene office or facility. The owner or operator of the mobile dental hygiene clinic or unit shall be registered and operated in accordance with regulations established by the dental hygiene board, which regulations shall not be designed to prevent or lessen competition in service areas, and shall pay the fees described in Section 1944.

(b) A mobile service unit, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 1765.105 of the Health and Safety Code, and a mobile unit operated by an entity that is exempt from licensure pursuant to subdivision (b), (c), or (h) of Section 1206 of the Health and Safety Code, are exempt from this article. Notwithstanding this exemption, the owner or operator of the mobile unit shall notify the dental hygiene board within 60 days of the date on which dental hygiene services are first delivered in the mobile unit, or the date on which the mobile unit’s application pursuant to Section 1765.130 of the Health and Safety Code is approved, whichever is earlier.

(c) A licensee practicing in a mobile unit described in subdivision (b) is not subject to subdivision (a) as to that mobile unit.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 21. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) Every person who is now or hereafter licensed as a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice in this state shall register with the executive officer, on forms prescribed by the dental hygiene board within 30 calendar days, the physical facility of the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice or, if the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice has more than one physical facility pursuant to Section 1926.4, all of the physical facilities. If the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice does not have a physical facility, the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice shall notify the executive officer.

(b) (1) A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice who utilizes portable equipment to practice dental hygiene shall register with the executive officer, on forms prescribed by the dental hygiene board, the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice’s physical facility where the portable equipment is maintained.

(2) The dental hygiene board may conduct announced and unannounced reviews and inspections of a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice’s physical facilities and equipment described in paragraph (1) to ensure continued compliance with the requirements for continued approval under this article.

(c) It shall constitute unprofessional conduct if the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice’s physical facility or equipment is found to be noncompliant with any requirements necessary for licensure and a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may be placed on probation with terms, issued a citation and fine, or have the owned physical facility registration withdrawn if compliance is not demonstrated within reasonable timelines, as established by the dental hygiene board.

(d) The dental hygiene board, by itself or through an authorized representative, may issue a citation containing fines and orders of abatement to the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice for any violation of this section, Section 1925, Section 1926.4, or any regulations adopted thereunder. Any fine collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited into the State Dental Hygiene Fund established pursuant to Section 1944.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 592, Sec. 8. (SB 861) Effective January 1, 2026.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text: When a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice desires to have more than one place of practice, the person shall, before opening the additional office, apply to the dental hygiene board, pay the fee required by Section 1944, and obtain permission in writing from the dental hygiene board to have the additional place of practice, subject to a biennial renewal fee described in Section 1944.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 23. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


text:
(a) In addition to the duties specified in Section 1926, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice is authorized to perform the duties pursuant to Section 1910.5, in the following settings:

(1) Residences of the homebound.

(2) Schools.

(3) Residential facilities and other institutions.

(4) Dental or medical settings.

(5) Dental health professional shortage areas, as certified by the Department of Health Care Access and Information in accordance with existing office guidelines.

(b) A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice is authorized to perform the duties pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 1910.5 in the settings specified in this section after there has been a diagnosis, treatment plan, and instruction to perform the procedure provided by a dentist.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 511, Sec. 7. (SB 1495) Effective January 1, 2023.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1927

text:
A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice shall not do any of the following:

(a) Infer, purport, advertise, or imply that he or she is in any way able to provide dental services or make any type of dental diagnosis beyond evaluating a patient’s dental hygiene status, providing a dental hygiene treatment plan, and providing the associated dental hygiene services.

(b) Hire a registered dental hygienist to provide direct patient services other than a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2011, Ch. 350, Sec. 7. (SB 943) Effective January 1, 2012.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1928

text: A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may submit or allow to be submitted any insurance or third-party claims for patient services performed as authorized pursuant to this article.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2008, Ch. 31, Sec. 47. Effective January 1, 2009. Operative July 1, 2009, by Sec. 55 of Ch. 31.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1929

text:
(a) A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may hire other registered dental hygienists in alternative practice to assist in his or her practice.

(b) A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may hire and supervise dental assistants performing intraoral retraction and suctioning.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1930

text: A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice shall provide to the dental hygiene board documentation of an existing relationship with at least one dentist for referral, consultation, and emergency services.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 24. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1931

text:
(a) (1) A dental hygienist in alternative practice may provide services to a patient without obtaining written verification that the patient has been examined by a dentist or physician and surgeon licensed to practice in this state.

(2) If the dental hygienist in alternative practice provides services to a patient 18 months or more after the first date that the person provides services to a patient, the person shall obtain written verification that the patient has been examined by a dentist or physician and surgeon licensed to practice in this state. The verification shall include a prescription for dental hygiene services as described in subdivision (b).

(b) A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice may provide dental hygiene services for a patient who presents to the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice a written prescription for dental hygiene services issued by a dentist or physician and surgeon licensed to practice in this state. The prescription shall be valid for a time period based on the dentist’s or physician and surgeon’s professional judgment, but not to exceed two years from the date it was issued.

(c) (1) The dental hygiene board may seek to obtain an injunction against any registered dental hygienist in alternative practice who provides services pursuant to this section, if the dental hygiene board has reasonable cause to believe that the services are being provided to a patient who has not received a prescription for those services from a dentist or physician and surgeon licensed to practice in this state.

(2) Providing services pursuant to this section without obtaining a prescription in accordance with subdivision (b) shall constitute unprofessional conduct on the part of the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, and reason for the dental hygiene board to revoke or suspend the license of the registered dental hygienist in alternative practice pursuant to Section 1947.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 25. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1932

text:
(a) The dental hygiene board may, in its sole discretion, issue a probationary license to an applicant who has satisfied all requirements for licensure as a registered dental hygienist, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice, or a registered dental hygienist in extended functions. The dental hygiene board may require, as a term or condition of issuing the probationary license, that the applicant comply with certain additional requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:

(1) Successfully completing a professional competency examination.

(2) Submitting to a medical or psychological evaluation.

(3) Submitting to continuing medical or psychological treatment.

(4) Abstaining from the use of alcohol or drugs.

(5) Submitting to random fluid testing for alcohol or controlled substance abuse.

(6) Submitting to continuing participation in a dental hygiene board-approved rehabilitation program.

(7) Restricting the type or circumstances of practice.

(8) Submitting to continuing education and coursework.

(9) Complying with requirements regarding notifying the dental hygiene board of any change of employer or employment.

(10) Complying with probation monitoring.

(11) Complying with all laws and regulations governing the practice of dental hygiene.

(12) Limiting the applicant’s practice to a supervised, structured environment in which the applicant’s activities are supervised by a specified person.

(b) The term of a probationary license is three years. During the term of the license, the licensee may petition the dental hygiene board for a modification of a term or condition of the license or for the issuance of a license that is not probationary.

(c) The proceedings under this section shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and the dental hygiene board shall have all the powers granted in that chapter.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 26. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1933

text: A licensee shall be issued a substitute license upon request and payment of the required fee. The request shall be accompanied by an affidavit or declaration containing satisfactory evidence of the loss or destruction of the license certificate.

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1934

text: A licensee who changes their physical address of record or email address shall notify the dental hygiene board within 30 days of the change. A licensee who changes their legal name shall provide the dental hygiene board with documentation of the change within 10 days.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 27. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists


citation: BPC § 1935

text: If not renewed, a license issued under the provisions of this article, unless specifically excepted, expires at 12 midnight on the last day of the month of the legal birth date of the licensee during the second year of a two-year term. To renew an unexpired license, the licensee shall, before the time at which the license would otherwise expire, apply for renewal on a form prescribed by the dental hygiene board and pay the renewal fee prescribed by this article.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 456, Sec. 28. (SB 786) Effective January 1, 2020.)

article: 9. Dental Hygienists