Bill > H209

This bill establishes a framework for the regulation and licensing of denturists, who are professionals specializing in the creation, fitting, and repair of prosthetic dentures. It defines the "practice of denturitry" to include recognizing oral conditions related to denture care, referring patients for other professional services, taking radiographs, and managing temporomandibular joint dysfunction in relation to dentures, as well as the technical processes of creating and fitting complete or partial dentures. The bill outlines requirements for both a "limited scope denturist license," which allows for complete dentures, relines, and repairs, and a "full scope denturist license," which permits the provision of all services within the defined practice, including partial dentures. To obtain these licenses, applicants must meet specific educational and experiential criteria, including training in dental mechanics or technology, graduation from approved denturist programs, completion of relevant post-secondary courses in anatomy, pathology, radiology, and ethics, and certification in CPR. The bill also details the examination process, including written and practical tests for both license scopes, and allows for exemptions for out-of-state licensees. Furthermore, it establishes provisions for license renewal, fees, duplicate licenses, and mental or physical examinations for licensees, and mandates continuing education requirements for license renewal. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not prohibit dentists, dental laboratories, or dental hygienists from performing services they are already authorized to do, nor does it prevent dental students from practicing under supervision.