State regulation of the practice of dentistry

Dentistry in today's world is a highly regulated industry. It is governed primarily by the state, but the federal government also controls certain aspects of a dental practice. This article focuses on the ways in which state government regulates the practice of dentistry. It explains the purpose of a state licensing board, as well as the authority a licensing board derives from state statute--including the authority to take disciplinary action against practitioners who engage in misconduct, and the authority to promulgate rules.