North Dakota Administrative Code Title 20 - State Board of Dental Examiners
1. Licensing of a New Dentist
Case Scenario:
A dentist who recently graduated from an accredited dental school wants to practice in North Dakota.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
The applicant must submit:
Official transcripts from a dental school
National Board Dental Examination results
Proof of good moral character
NDAC requires verification of any previous disciplinary history in other states.
An application review ensures the candidate meets educational and ethical standards.
Outcome:
If all criteria are met, the Board issues a license to practice dentistry.
If there are deficiencies, the Board may require remedial courses, additional exams, or deny the license.
2. Disciplinary Action for Malpractice
Case Scenario:
A dentist is found to have caused patient harm due to negligence in performing a root canal.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
The Board investigates complaints alleging professional misconduct, incompetence, or negligence.
Investigations include reviewing patient records, expert opinions, and the dentist’s explanation.
Possible disciplinary measures include:
Reprimand or censure
Probation with supervision
Suspension or revocation of license
Outcome:
The dentist may be required to take remedial training or undergo monitoring.
Severe or repeated offenses can result in permanent license revocation.
3. Approval of Dental Hygienist Licenses
Case Scenario:
A dental hygienist trained out-of-state applies for licensure in North Dakota.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
The applicant must meet educational requirements equivalent to those in North Dakota.
Completion of the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam and a clinical board examination is required.
The Board reviews background checks and prior professional conduct.
Outcome:
Upon approval, the dental hygienist is licensed to practice under the supervision of a dentist.
Any discrepancies may result in conditional licensure or denial.
4. Continuing Education Compliance
Case Scenario:
A licensed dentist fails to submit documentation of required continuing education (CE) hours for license renewal.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
NDAC mandates a specific number of CE hours within a renewal cycle to ensure competency.
The Board audits CE compliance during license renewal.
Dentists failing to comply may face:
Late fees or penalties
Requirement to complete additional CE
Suspension of license until compliance is met
Outcome:
Compliance must be met before practicing.
Repeated failure can trigger stricter disciplinary action.
5. Scope of Practice Violation
Case Scenario:
A dental hygienist performs a procedure legally restricted to licensed dentists.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
NDAC clearly defines the scope of practice for dentists, hygienists, and assistants.
Performing procedures outside this scope constitutes unauthorized practice.
The Board may:
Issue a warning or reprimand
Require remedial training
Suspend or revoke the license in serious cases
Outcome:
The professional may be restricted from performing certain procedures until corrective measures are completed.
Patient safety is prioritized.
6. Unprofessional Conduct: Substance Abuse
Case Scenario:
A dentist is found to be practicing under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
The Board treats substance abuse as unprofessional conduct.
Investigation includes evidence collection, peer review, and possible drug testing.
Corrective actions may include:
Mandatory participation in rehabilitation programs
Probation with strict monitoring
Suspension or revocation of license for safety reasons
Outcome:
Rehabilitation may allow the dentist to return to practice under supervision.
Failure to comply or repeated offenses results in permanent loss of licensure.
7. Patient Complaint Regarding Infection Control
Case Scenario:
A patient reports unsanitary conditions during treatment.
Key Points under NDAC Title 20:
NDAC requires compliance with infection control and sterilization standards.
The Board may conduct an on-site inspection of the dental office.
Violations can lead to:
Fines
Corrective action plans
Temporary closure until compliance is verified
Outcome:
The dentist must implement proper sterilization procedures and maintain records.
Repeat violations could lead to more severe disciplinary actions.
Summary
NDAC Title 20 ensures dental professionals in North Dakota maintain high standards of education, competency, ethics, and patient safety. Cases typically fall into:
Licensing new dentists or hygienists
Disciplinary action for malpractice or negligence
Continuing education compliance
Scope of practice enforcement
Substance abuse or unprofessional conduct
Patient safety and infection control violations
Each scenario demonstrates how the Board balances professional standards, public safety, and due process.
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