REGULATORY UPDATE
The Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry ( SBOD ) is a separate and distinct entity within the Department of State ’ s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs ( BPOA ), authorized by the state legislature to regulate the dental community .
It is comprised of eight dentists , one hygienist and expanded function dental assistant and two public members , all appointed by the Governor . The board also includes one representative each from the Attorney General ’ s Office and Department of Health and the BPOA Commissioner . The appointment process , and the SBOD itself , operate independently of PDA and other dental membership organizations .
State Board duties and functions are as follows :
• Licenses dentists and hygienists .
• Certifies expanded function dental assistance .
• Issues permits to allow dentists and hygienists to administer various levels of anesthesia .
• Investigates complaints made against licensees or certificate holders .
• Suspends and revokes licenses and certificates when disciplinary action occurs .
• Levies fines and penalties on licensees when disciplinary action occurs .
• Supervises dentists , hygienists and EFDAs to ensure compliance with licensure and certification requirements .
• Develops standard of professional conduct , including continuing education requirements .
• Promulgates regulations and policy statements to govern the dental profession .
22 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL