Who can the Board of Dentistry limit in a private practice?

In Florida, the Board of Dentistry has the authority to establish regulations regarding the number of dental assistants and dental hygienists that a dentist can employ in their private practice. This regulation is primarily aimed at ensuring that sufficient oversight and professional standards are maintained, as well as safeguarding patient care quality. By limiting the number of assistants and hygienists, the Board helps ensure that dental professionals can adequately manage their staff and maintain proper levels of supervision and care.

The reasons for the Board's focus on assistants and hygienists compared to other options include the recognition of their significant role in the delivery of dental care and the necessity for a clear structure in employing support staff. Limiting only non-licensed personnel helps to ensure that licensed professionals have the necessary support to provide safe and effective care to patients.

Other options do not align with the Board's regulatory focus: the dentist remains the primary licensed professional managing practice operations, and while dental procedures might be subject to rules and regulations, they are not limited in the same manner by the Board regarding the number performed.