Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 034 - Dental Examiners, Board of
1. What it is
The Wyoming Board of Dental Examiners is a state agency responsible for regulating the practice of dentistry in Wyoming. Its authority and rules are codified in the Wyoming Administrative Code (WAC), Agency 034. The purpose is to protect the public by ensuring that dentists, dental hygienists, and related professionals are competent, follow ethical practices, and comply with state laws.
2. Who the Board Regulates
The Board oversees:
Dentists – licensed to perform dental procedures such as exams, fillings, extractions, and surgeries.
Dental Hygienists – licensed to perform teeth cleanings, preventative care, and education under certain supervision rules.
Dental Assistants – may be regulated for certain tasks or require certification, depending on their duties.
3. Key Areas Covered in WAC Agency 034
The code covers rules in several areas:
A. Licensing
Requirements for dentists:
Graduation from an accredited dental school.
Passing written and clinical exams (national and state-specific exams).
Good moral character.
Requirements for dental hygienists:
Graduation from an accredited dental hygiene program.
Passing the national and state exams.
Renewals: Licenses must be renewed periodically (usually every 2 years), and continuing education is often required.
B. Scope of Practice
Defines what dentists, hygienists, and assistants are legally allowed to do.
Specifies tasks that require supervision (direct or general) and those professionals can do independently.
Limits procedures based on education, training, and licensure.
C. Continuing Education
Licensed professionals must complete a certain number of continuing education (CE) hours in approved courses.
CE ensures that professionals stay updated on new techniques, safety, and regulations.
D. Professional Conduct and Ethics
Sets standards of ethical behavior.
Prohibits fraudulent practices, patient exploitation, and unsafe care.
Professionals must follow infection control and safety standards.
E. Disciplinary Actions
Lists actions that can lead to warnings, fines, suspension, or revocation of a license.
Common reasons for discipline include:
Practicing without a license.
Substance abuse affecting patient care.
Gross negligence or malpractice.
Misrepresentation or fraud.
F. Administrative Procedures
Procedures for applying for a license, renewing, and appealing Board decisions.
How complaints are filed and investigated.
4. Board Structure and Authority
Composed of appointed members, including dentists and sometimes public members.
Board members set rules, approve licenses, and hear disciplinary cases.
They have the legal authority to enforce the rules in the WAC and issue fines or revoke licenses when necessary.
5. Key Goals
The purpose of these rules is to:
Protect public health and safety.
Ensure competency of dental professionals.
Maintain professional ethics in dental practice.
Provide clear guidance on legal and professional expectations.
6. Summary
In short, WAC Agency 034 is Wyoming’s official set of rules for dental professionals. It ensures that:
Only qualified individuals practice dentistry.
Practices meet ethical and safety standards.
The public is protected from unsafe or unqualified practitioners.
Think of it as a “rulebook” for dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants in Wyoming.
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