HB 305 -- Denturists

Sponsor:  Skaggs

This bill gives the Dental Board authority to oversee and
regulate the practice of denturity.  The practice of denturity,
as defined by the bill, is the taking of denture impressions and
bite registrations for the purpose of producing and fitting of
prosthetic dentures.

The bill contains provisions regarding the duties of the board
which include, adopting rules, establishing continuing education
requirements, issuing prelicensure permits, keeping records,
giving examinations, determining eligibility of applicants,
issuing and renewing licenses, collecting fees, and establishing
reciprocity.

The bill also prohibits denturists from holding themselves out
as being a dentist without being duly licensed.  Denturists
cannot make denture impressions without first receiving a
statement from a licensed dentist stating the oral condition of
the patient.  Denturists are also prohibited from performing
tasks beyond their competence level and from administering,
dispensing, or prescribing medication or controlled substances.
Licensed denturists will also be subject to mental and physical
examinations deemed necessary by the board.

As a condition of license renewal, denturists must provide the
board with evidence that they have completed at least 24 hours
of continuing education within a 2 year period.

Nothing in this bill prohibits a duly qualified dental surgeon,
dental laboratory, or dental hygienist from performing work or
services that could be performed by a denturist.