What is the penalty for practicing dentistry with a suspended or expired license?

Practicing dentistry with a suspended or expired license is considered a serious violation of the law, reflecting the importance of adhering to licensing regulations within the dental profession. The appropriate penalty for this offense is classified as a third-degree felony. This classification underscores the severity with which such violations are viewed, as they can potentially jeopardize patient safety and undermine the integrity of the dental profession.

This penalty serves as a deterrent to ensure that dental professionals maintain their licensure and adhere to the legal requirements to provide safe and effective care. Such regulations are in place not only to protect the public but also to uphold the standards of professional practice.

In contrast, other penalties pertaining to different degrees of misdemeanors or felonies do not adequately reflect the seriousness of practicing without a valid license, which is why the classification as a third-degree felony is the correct response in this context.