216-RICR-40-05-2
216-RICR-40-05-2. Dentists, Dental Hygienists, and Dental Assistants (version Amendment, 06/04/2017 to 06/04/2017)
216-RICR-40-05-2
TITLE 216 – DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
CHAPTER 40 – PROFESSIONAL LICENSING AND FACILITY REGULATION
SUB CHAPTER 5 – Professional Licensing
PART 02 – RULES AND REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO DENTISTS, DENTAL
HYGIENISTS, AND DENTAL ASSISTANTS
2.1 Authority
These amended Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Dentists - Dental Hygienists -and Dental
Assistants are promulgated pursuant to the authority conferred under R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter
5-31.1, as amended, and are established for the purpose of adopting prevailing standards
governing the licensure of dentists, dental hygienists, Public Health Dental Hygienists and
DAANCE assistants; the practice of dentistry as it pertains to dentists, dental hygienists and
dental assistants; continuing education for dentists and dental hygienists; the administration
of general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation and/or nitrous
oxide analgesia; and to establish administrative procedures for the implementation of the
statutory and regulatory provisions.
2.2 Incorporated Materials
A.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate by reference the Center for Disease
Control and Prevention’s “Summary of Infection Prevention Practices in Dental Health
Care Settings” (2016), not including any further editions or amendments thereof and
only to the extent that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
B.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate 29 C.F.R. § 1910 by reference, not
including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent that the
provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
C.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate by reference the American Dental
Association’s “Guidelines for the Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia by Dentists”
(2016), not including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent
that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
D.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate by reference the American Dental
Association’s “Guidelines for Teaching Pain Control and Sedation to Dentists and
Dental Students” (2016), not including any further editions or amendments thereof and
only to the extent that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
E.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate 21 C.F.R. §§ 1300-1316 by reference,
not including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent that the
provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
F.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate by reference the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health’s “Controlling Exposures to Nitrous Oxide during
Anesthetic Administration”, not including any further editions or amendments thereof
and only to the extent that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with these
regulations.
G.
These regulations hereby adopt and incorporate by reference the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health’s “Control of Nitrous Oxide in Dental Operatories”, not
including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent that the
provisions therein are not inconsistent with these regulations.
2.3 Definitions
H.
Wherever used in these rules and regulations the following terms shall be construed to
mean:
1.
"Act" refers to R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 5-31.1, as amended, entitled “Dentists
and Dental Hygienists". Also known as the Dental Practice Act.
2.
"Advisory consultants" means those individuals appointed by the Board to serve
as advisory consultants to the Board in determining compliance with the
statutory and regulatory provisions herein, of applicants seeking a permit to
administer or to permit the administration of general anesthesia/deep sedation,
moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia. Such
consultants may be Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial
Surgery, Members or Fellows of the American Association of Oral and
Maxillofacial Surgeons, or Fellows of the American Dental Society of
Anesthesiology, and may include a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and a
licensed dentist with experience in the administration of general anesthesia/deep
sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia.
3.
"Biennial" means occurring every second (2nd) year.
4.
"Board" refers to the Board of Examiners in Dentistry, or any committee or
subcommittee thereof, established in the Rhode Island Department of Health
pursuant to the provisions of the Act.
5.
“DAANCE-certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant” means a person currently
certified by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons to
provide supportive anesthesia care.
6.
"DANB-Certified assistant" means a person currently certified by the Dental
Assisting National Board, Inc. (DANB), or its successor agency, holding the
certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification in general dental assisting duties or
another DANB certification in a specific area of advanced or specialty practice,
and employed for the purpose of assisting a dentist in the performance of
procedures/duties related to dental care in accordance with the provisions of this
Part.
7.
“Dental administrator” means the Administrator of the Rhode Island Board of
Examiners in Dentistry.
8.
“Deep sedation” means a drug-induced depression of consciousness during
which patients cannot be easily aroused but respond purposefully following
repeated or painful stimulation. The ability to independently maintain ventilatory
function may be impaired. Patients may require assistance in maintaining a
patent airway, and spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate. Cardiovascular
function is usually maintained.
9.
“Dental assistant" means a person not currently certified by the Dental Assisting
National Board, Inc. (DANB) holding the certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
certification in general dental assisting duties or another DANB certification in a
specific area of advanced or specialty practice, and employed for the purpose of
assisting a dentist in the performance of procedures/duties related to dental care
in accordance with the provisions of this Part.
10.
"Dental auxiliary personnel" refers to a dental hygienist, a public-health dental
hygienist, a DANB-certified assistant, a DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery
assistant or a dental assistant.
11.
"Dental hygienist" means an individual licensed under the provisions of the Act
to practice dental hygiene.
12.
"Dental office or Facility" means a place, however named, where a dentist
actively, regularly, and personally practices dentistry, pursuant to the provisions
of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-1(g).
13.
"Dentist" means an individual licensed under the provisions of the Act to practice
dentistry in Rhode Island.
14.
“Dentistry" means the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (non-
surgical, surgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions
of the oral cavity, cranio-maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated
structures and their impact on the human body, including any service or product
that may change the anatomy, appearance or arrangement of teeth provided by
a dentist, within the scope of his or her education, training and experience, in
accordance with the ethics of the profession and applicable law.
15.
“Digital Scan” means a virtual computer generated replica of the hard and soft
tissue of the mouth using lasers or other optical scanning devices.
16.
“Director” means the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health
17.
"General anesthesia" means a drug-induced loss of consciousness during which
patients are not arousable, even by painful stimulation. The ability to
independently maintain ventilatory function is often impaired. Patients often
require assistance in maintaining a patent airway, and positive pressure
ventilation may be required because of depressed spontaneous ventilation or
drug-induced depression of neuromuscular function. Cardiovascular function
may be impaired.
18.
“Homebound” means an individual “confined to his or her home” if the individual
has a condition, due to illness or injury, that restricts the ability of the individual
to leave his or her home except with the assistance of another individual or the
aid of a supportive device or if an individual has a condition such that leaving his
or her home is medically contraindicated. While an individual does not have to
be bedridden to be considered “confined to his home”, the condition of the
individual should be such that there exists a normal inability to leave home and
that leaving home requires a considerable and taxing effort by the individual
and/or others.
19.
“Impression” means an imprint or negative likeness of teeth and/or other tissues
of the oral cavity from which a positive reproduction may be made.
20.
“Infection Control” refers to policies and procedures used to minimize the risk of
spreading infections, within the dental healthcare setting. Compliance is based
on conformance with current recommendations developed by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and published in the document entitled
“Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings” and
incorporated herin.
21.
“Inhalation” means a technique of administration in which a gaseous or volatile
agent is introduced into the pulmonary tree and whose primary effect is due to
the absorption through the pulmonary bed.
22.
"License", as used in these Regulations, is not synonymous with “registration.”
23.
"Local anesthesia" means the injection of a local anesthetic agent (e.g.,
Lidocaine) into and around the operative site to eliminate sensory perception in
the area where a procedure(s) is to be performed. This type of anesthesia does
not involve any systemic sedation.
24.
"Minimal sedation" means a minimally depressed level of consciousness,
produced by a pharmacological method, which retains the patient’s ability to
independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond normally to
tactile stimulation and verbal command. Although cognitive function and
coordination may be modestly impaired, ventilatory and cardiovascular functions
are unaffected.
25.
“Mobile Dental Facility” (MDF) means any self-contained facility where dentistry
will be practiced which may be driven, moved, towed, or transported from one
location to another. See related definition under Portable Dental Operation.
26.
“Mobile Dental Facility (MDF) or Portable Dental Operation (PDO) Director”:
means a dentist who is currently licensed to practice dentistry in the State of
Rhode Island or a public health dental hygienist practicing pursuant for the
purposes of providing dental hygiene services in public health settings who is
responsible for dental services provided by the MDF or PDO.
27.
“Mobile Dental Facility (MDF) or Portable Dental Operation (PDO) Permit
Holder”: means a dentist who is currently licensed to practice dentistry in the
State of Rhode Island or a public health dental hygienist in whose name the MDF
and/or PDO Facility Permit is issued. Where the MDF or PDO is not wholly
owned by a dentist(s) or public health dental hygienist licensed to practice in the
State of Rhode Island, the owner(s) shall apply for a license to operate as a clinic
unless the entity is exempt from such licensure.
28.
"Moderate sedation" means a drug-induced depression of consciousness during
which patients respond purposefully to verbal commands, either alone or
accompanied by light tactile stimulation. No interventions are required to
maintain a patent airway, and spontaneous ventilation is adequate.
Cardiovascular function is usually maintained.
29.
"Nitrous oxide analgesia" means the administration of nitrous oxide to diminish
or eliminate the sensibility to pain in the conscious patient, designating in
particular the relief of pain without loss of consciousness.
30.
“Portable Dental Operation” (PDO) means any non-facility where dental
equipment utilized in the practice of dentistry is transported to and utilized on a
temporary basis at an out-of-office location. See related definitions under Mobile
Dental Facility (MDF).
31.
“Public Health Dental Hygienist” (PHDH) means a registered dental hygienist
who holds a valid license to practice in the State of Rhode Island and who has a
minimum of three (3) years of full-time or an equivalent 4500 hours of clinical
experience and who has the fulfilled the necessary training requirements and
who works in a public health setting pursuant to a written collaborative
agreement with a local or state government agency or institution or a dentist who
holds a valid license issued in the State of Rhode Island.
32.
“Public Health Setting” includes, but is not limited to, residences of the
homebound, schools, Head Start programs, nursing homes and long-term care
facilities, licensed clinics, community health centers, hospitals, medical facilities,
prisons, residential treatment facilities, federal, state or local public health
programs, mobile dental facilities and portable dental programs.
33.
“R.I. Gen. Laws” means the General Laws of Rhode Island, as amended.
34.
"Supervision" includes four (4) types of supervision for all dental auxiliary
personnel as follows:
a.
"Direct supervision" means the dentist is in the dental office, personally
diagnoses the condition to be treated, personally authorizes the
procedure(s)/duty(ies),
remains
in the dental office
while
the
procedure(s)/duty(ies) are being performed and examines the patient
before his/her dismissal.
b.
"General
supervision"
means
the
dentist
has
authorized
the
procedure/duty and such is being carried out in accordance with his/her
diagnosis and treatment plan. The dentist does not have to be physically
present in the dental office when such treatment is being performed under
general supervision.
c.
"Indirect supervision" means the dentist is in the dental office, personally
diagnoses the condition to be treated, personally authorizes the
procedure(s)/duty(ies), and remains in the dental office while the
procedure(s)/duty(ies) is being performed by the dental auxiliary.
d.
“Direct visual supervision” means supervision by an oral and maxillofacial
surgeon (with a permit to administer deep sedation and general
anesthesia) by verbal command and under direct line of sight.
35.
“These Regulations” mean all parts of Rhode Island Rules and Regulations
Pertaining to Dentists, Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistants.
36.
"Unprofessional conduct" shall include, but not be limited to, the provisions of
R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-10, and is further defined as failure to conform to the
Category IC recommendations of the Centers of Disease Control Guidelines for
Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, or its amendments.
37.
“Written Collaborative Agreement” (WCA) means a written agreement that
complies with R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-39. Written Collaborative Agreement
(WCA) with a Public Health Dental Hygienist and is between a public health
dental hygienist and a local or state government agency or institution or with a
licensed dentist who holds a valid Rhode Island license and who agrees to
provide the appropriate level of communication and consultation with the public
health dental hygienist to ensure patient health and safety.
2.4 Dentists/Licensing Requirements
2.4.1 License Requirements
A.
No person shall perform any act which constitutes the practice of dentistry in Rhode
Island unless such person is duly licensed in accordance with the regulatory and
statutory provisions of the Act as a dentist, dental hygienist, a public health dental
hygienist, or a DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant. Furthermore, dental
hygienists, public health dental hygienists, or a DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery
assistant, dental assistants and DANB-certified assistants shall perform only those
auxiliary dental services, procedures and duties, and under the specified type of
supervision, as set forth in § 0 of this Part. Exempt from these requirements are those
persons listed in R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-37
2.4.2 Pain Assessment
A.
All health care providers licensed in Rhode Island to provide health care services and
all health care facilities licensed under R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-17 shall assess patient pain
in accordance with the requirements of 216-RICR-20-20-4, the Rules and Regulations
for Pain Management, Opioid Use and the Registration of Distributors of Controlled
Substances in Rhode Island promulgated by the Department.
2.4.3 Latex
A.
Any dentist who utilizes latex gloves shall do so in accordance with the provisions of
216-RICR-20-15-3, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Use of Latex Gloves
by Health Care Workers, in Licensed Health Care Facilities, and by Other Persons,
Firms, or Corporations Licensed or Registered by the Department promulgated by the
Department.
2.4.4 Scheduled Controlled Substances
A.
All actions related to the ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administration, inventory and
storage or administration of controlled substances shall be in conformity with the
provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 21-28 and 21 CFR sections 1300-1316, the
“Controlled Substances Act” Inspections incorporated herein.
2.4.5 Volunteer Dental/Dental Hygiene Permit
A.
Notwithstanding any other provision of the Act or these Regulations, the Board may
issue a volunteer dental/dental hygiene permit that allows an out-of-state dentist/dental
hygienist to provide dental or dental hygiene services in Rhode Island without obtaining
a Rhode Island license.
1.
Services provided pursuant to a volunteer dental/dental hygiene permit shall be
limited to:
a.
A free clinic or similar charitable medical event providing free health care
services; or
b.
The Special Olympics or similar athletic event attracting a large number
of out-of- state participants; or
c.
Participation in A Mission of Mercy program.
2.
Application: An applicant for a volunteer dental/ dental hygiene permit shall
submit the following information to the Board at least sixty (60) days prior to the
event:
a.
A copy of the applicant formation to the Board at least sixty (60) da a letter
of good standing from the state where the applicant is currently licensed:
and
b.
A letter, signed by an authorized representative of the sponsoring agency,
which specifies the date(s) and location(s) of the event, and the type(s) of
volunteer dental or dental hygiene services that will be provided; and
c.
A notarized statement, signed by both the applicant and an authorized
representative of the sponsoring agency, which specifies that it has been
agreed between the parties that no compensation shall be paid for any
dentistry or dental hygiene services rendered in Rhode Island while in
possession of a volunteer dental permit.
2.4.6 Qualifications for Licensure for Dentists
A.
An applicant seeking licensure to practice dentistry in the state of Rhode Island shall:
1.
Be of good moral character;
2.
Be eighteen (18) years of age or over;
3.
Be a graduate of a school of dentistry accredited by the American Dental
Association Commission on Dental Accreditation or its designated agency and
approved by the Board;
4.
Have passed to the satisfaction of the Board the required examinations in
accordance with § 0 of this Part or met the requirements for endorsement
stipulated in § 1.1.1A.1.c(3) of this Part; and
5.
Be in good standing in each state in which he/she holds a license, which shall
include a Board query to the National Practitioners Databank.
2.4.7 Application for License and Fee
A.
Application for license shall be made on forms provided by the Board, which shall be
completed and submitted to the Board thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled date of
the Board meeting. Such application shall be accompanied by the following documents
(non-returnable):
1.
A state driver’s license, a state-issued identification card or such other
identification papers acceptable to the Director that include birthdate and a
picture;
2.
Supporting official transcript of grades and/or verification of graduation signed
by the dean or registrar of the dental school;
3.
National board results in accordance with § 1.1.1A.1.b of this Part submitted
either with application or submitted by the National Dental Examination
Commission to the Board;
4.
The results of the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) examination or
other dental examination organizations (as required in § 0 of this Part) submitted
directly to the Board by the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment. or
by the board of the other dental examination organizations;
5.
Verification that the licensee is in good standing in state(s) where licensed [if
licensed in another state(s)];
6.
The application fee (non-refundable) as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules
and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health in accordance
with R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6.
2.5 Examination for Licensure as a Dentist
A.
By Examination: Applicants shall be required to pass such examination(s) as the Board
deems most practical and expeditious to test the applicant's knowledge and skills to
practice dentistry in this Rhode Island pursuant R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6; and:
1.
The Board requires each applicant to:
a.
Have graduated from a school of dentistry in accordance with § 1.1.1A.3
of this Part; and
b.
Have successfully passed the national examination of the Joint
Commission on National Dental Examination (Parts I and II); and
c.
Have successfully passed the ADEX exam, including the periodontal
examination portion within five (5) years from the date of application for
licensure in Rhode Island; or
(1)
Have successfully passed an examination, approved by the Board,
other than a regional board that is similar to the examination for
which the applicant is seeking waiver, with an earned score of
seventy-five percent (75%) in each discipline, clinical skill,
procedure or knowledge area that is tested on the ADEX
Examination, including the periodontal examination portion using
the internal weighting and scoring methods the CDCA uses to
score the ADEX Examination in Dentistry; and
(2)
Have successfully passed a comprehensive examination in
applied clinical diagnosis and treatment planning (CDCA Dental
Simulated Clinical Exercise {DSCE} written) with an earned score
of seventy-five percent (75%); or
(3)
Hold a current license in good standing to practice dentistry in
another state for five (5) years immediately prior to submitting an
application for licensure in RI; Said state shall have required
successful completion of a clinical exam, not part of the applicant’s
training program, to be considered for RI licensure .
2.
Applicants shall submit to the Board, the application accompanied with the
appropriate documentation as set forth in §0 of this Part.
3.
Sites and schedules of examinations may be obtained directly from the
examination service(s) referred to above or from the Board.
2.6 Continuing Education—Dentists
A.
Continuing education for dentists requires those professionals to maintain a systematic
course of continual learning as a condition to maintain their professional license. In
addition, continuing education is an effective way for dental professionals to sustain
knowledge of current and evolving tools, techniques, technology, innovative
medications and in-depth information on emerging topics that will enhance their
professional skills and abilities.
B.
Pursuant to the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-7, all dentists licensed to practice
in Rhode Island under the provisions of the Act and these Regulations, on or before the
first (1st) day of May of each even-numbered year shall maintain evidence that in the
preceding two (2) years he or she has satisfactorily completed at least forty (40) hours
of continuing dental education courses, according to the criteria established by the
Rhode Island Dental Association and approved by the Board. Continuing education
requirements cited in these Regulations shall be prorated for a licensee whose license
is in effect for a period of less than two (2) years (i.e., an average of twenty (20) hours
of continuing education shall be required each year the license is in effect).
C.
It shall be the sole responsibility of the individual dentist to obtain documentation from
the approved sponsoring or co-sponsoring organization, agency or other, of his or her
participation in a learning experience, including the date, and number of hours earned.
D.
At the time of license renewal, each licensee shall be required to attest to the fact that
he/she has complied with the continuing education requirements established by these
Regulations. Course descriptions, proof of attendance, or other documentation of
completion shall be retained by the licensee for a minimum of five (5) years and is
subject to random audit by the Board. Failure to produce satisfactory documentation of
completion of requirements upon request of the Board may constitute grounds for
disciplinary action.
E.
All dentists practicing in a dental setting shall receive a minimum of one (1) hour per
year of training on the CDC Infection Control Guidelines.
F.
All dentists practicing in a dental setting shall hold a current certificate of completion
from an approved course in Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers that
includes a hands-on skill component and conforms to the current American Heart
Association Guidelines Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and
Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC), and is offered by any accredited agency
approved by the Board.
G.
If the applicant attests to completion of the prescribed course(s) of continuing dental
education as set forth in Appendix A of this Part, as approved by the Board, and is in
compliance with the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-7, the Board shall issue the
applicant a license registration for a two (2) year period in accordance with the
requirements of § 2.6.2 of this Part.
H.
Licensure renewal shall be denied to any applicant who fails to attest to completion
continuing dental education as required by these Regulations.
I.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 0 of this Part, no license to practice dentistry in
Rhode Island shall be refused, nor shall any license be suspended or revoked except
as: (1) provided in the Act; and (2) for failure to attest to completion of continuing dental
education as required by these Regulations.
J.
The Board may, however, extend for only one (1) six (6) month period such educational
requirements, if the Board is satisfied that the applicant has suffered hardship which
prevented him/her from meeting the requirements of this Part.
2.6.2 Issuance and Renewal of License
A.
A license shall be issued by the Board to an applicant found to have satisfactorily met
all requirements of this Part. Said license, unless sooner suspended or revoked, shall
expire biennially on the 30th of June of the even numbered years.
B.
Every person so licensed who desires to renew his or her license must file with the
Board before the first (1st) of May in each even-numbered year, a renewal application
duly executed together with attestation to completion of continuing education
requirement and the renewal fee as determined biennially by the Director of Health in
consultation with the Board, and as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and
Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health. Upon receipt of such
application and payment of such fee, a license renewal shall be granted effective for
the biennial licensure period unless sooner suspended or revoked.
1.
For those licensees who have attained the age of not less than seventy (70)
years ("emeritus active") as of June 30th of the year of licensure, the renewal
fee (non- refundable) shall be as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and
Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health.
C.
Pursuant to the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-21, the registration certificate of
all dentists whose renewals accompanied by the prescribed fee are not filed on or
before the first day of July of the even numbered years shall be automatically revoked.
The Board may in its discretion and upon the payment by the dentist of the current
licensure (registration) fee plus an additional fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health, reinstate any license
(certificate) revoked under the provisions of the Act and these Regulations.
D.
Inactive Status
1.
Dentists not intending to practice in Rhode Island may request on a biennial
basis to be placed on inactive status. Such requests shall be made in writing to
the dental administrator and shall be accompanied by a fee as set forth in 216-
RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for
Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services Provided by the Department
of Health.
2.
Persons on inactive status may be reinstated by paying the current annual
registration fee and shall meet such requirements established by the Act and as
prescribed in these Regulations, including attesting to completion of the required
continuing dental education courses as specified in § 0 of this Part.
2.7 Dental Hygienists Licensing Requirements
2.7.1 License Requirements
A.
No person shall perform any act which constitutes the practice of dental hygiene or
public health dental hygiene in Rhode Island unless such person is duly licensed in
accordance with the Act and these regulations as a dentist, dental hygienist, or a public
health dental hygienist.
1.
Furthermore, dental hygienists, dental assistants and DANB-certified assistants,
DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants or dental assistants, shall
perform only those auxiliary dental services, procedures/duties, and under the
specified type of supervision, as set forth in § 1.10.2 of this Part. Exempt from
these requirements, are those persons listed in R.I. Gen. Laws §5-31.1-37.
2.7.2 Qualifications for Licensure for Dental Hygienists
A.
An applicant seeking licensure to practice dental hygiene in Rhode Island shall:
1.
Be of good moral character;
2.
Be eighteen (18) years of age or over;
3.
Have graduated from a program for dental hygienists accredited by the
Commission on Dental Accreditation or its designated agency and approved by
the Board;
4.
Have passed to the satisfaction of the Board the required examinations in
accordance with § 0 of this Part or met the requirements for endorsement
stipulated in § 1.1.1A.1.c(3) of this Part; and
5.
Be in good standing in each state in which he/she holds a license.
2.7.3 Application for Licensure and Fee
A.
Application for licensure must be made on forms provided by the Board which shall be
completed and submitted to the Board thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled date of
the Board meeting. Such application shall be accompanied by the following documents
(non-returnable):
1.
A state driver’s license, a state-issued identification card or other such
identification papers acceptable to the Director that include birthdate and a
picture.
2.
Supporting official transcript of education credentials signed by the dean or
registrar of the program of dental hygiene;
3.
National board results in accordance with § 1.1.1A.1.a of this Part, (submitted
either with the application or submitted by the National Board Dental Hygiene
Examination to the Board);
4.
The results of the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) examination
(formerly Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners, Inc., examination
(NERB)) or other dental examination organizations (as required in § 0 of this
Part) submitted directly by the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment
(CDCA) (formerly the Board of Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners,
Inc.) or by the board of the other dental examination organizations;
5.
Verification that the licensee is in good standing in state(s) where licensed [if
licensed in another state(s)]; and
6.
The application fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations
Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative
Services Provided by the Department of Health in accordance with R.I. Gen.
Laws § 5-31.1-6.
2.7.4 Examination for Licensure as a Dental Hygienist
A.
By Examination: Applicants shall be required to pass such examination(s) as the Board
deems most practical and expeditious to test the applicant's knowledge and skills to
practice dental hygiene in Rhode Island pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6, and:
B.
The Board requires each applicant to:
1.
Have graduated from an accredited program for dental hygienists in accordance
with § 1.1.1A.3 of this Part; and
2.
Have passed the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination; and
3.
Have passed ADEX examination given by the Commission on Dental
Competency Assessment (CDCA) on Dental Hygiene (formerly the Northeast
Regional Board Examination in Dental Hygiene (NERB)) including the computer
simulation Northeast Regional Board Examination in Dental Hygiene within five
(5) years prior to from the date of application for licensure in Rhode Island; or
4.
Have passed an examination, approved by the Board, other than a regional
board that is similar to the examination for which the applicant is seeking waiver,
with an earned score of seventy-five percent (75%) using the internal weighting
and scoring methods that the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment
(CDCA, formerly NERB uses to score the ADEX Examination in Dental Hygiene,
and
5.
Have passed a simulated patient clinical exercise (CDCA Computer Simulated
Clinical Examination {CSCE} written) with an earned score of seventy-five
percent (75%);or
6.
Hold a current license in good standing to practice dental hygiene in another
state for five (5) years that required the successful completion of a clinical board
examination in order to be eligible for licensure;
C.
Applicants shall submit to the Board, the application accompanied with the appropriate
documentation as set forth in § 2.7.3 of this Part.
D.
Sites and schedules of examinations may be obtained directly from the examination
service(s) referred to above.
2.7.5 Continuing Education--Dental Hygienists
A.
Continuing education for dental hygienists requires those professionals to maintain a
systematic course of continual learning as a condition to maintain their professional
license. In addition, continuing education is an effective way for dental professionals to
obtain knowledge of current and evolving tools, techniques, technology, innovative
medications and in-depth information on emerging topics that will enhance their
professional skills and abilities. Pursuant to the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-
7, all dental hygienists licensed to practice in Rhode Island under the provisions of the
Act and these Regulations, shall, on or before the first (1st) day of May of each even-
numbered year maintain evidence that in the preceding two (2) years he or she has
satisfactorily completed at least twenty (20) hours of continuing education courses
relevant to the practice of dental hygiene, according to the criteria in Appendix A of this
Part and approved by the Board. Continuing education requirements cited in these
Regulations shall be prorated for a licensee whose license is in effect for a period of
less than two (2) years (i.e., an average of ten (10) hours of continuing education shall
be required each year the license is in effect).
B.
All dental hygienists practicing in a dental setting shall receive a minimum of one (1)
hour per year of training on the CDC Infection Control Guidelines.
C.
All dental hygienists practicing in a dental setting shall hold a current certificate of
completion in Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider that includes a
hands-on skill component and conforms to the current American Heart Association
Guidelines Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency
Cardiovascular Care (ECC) offered by any accredited agency approved by the Board.
D.
If the applicant attests to completion of prescribed course(s) of continuing education
and is in compliance with the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6, the Board shall
issue the applicant a license registration for a two (2) year period in accordance with
the requirements of this Part.
E.
It shall be the sole responsibility of the individual dental hygienist to obtain
documentation from the approved sponsoring or co-sponsoring organization, agency
or other, of his or her participation in the learning experience, including the date and
number of hours earned.
1.
These documents shall be safeguarded by the dental hygienist for a minimum of
five (5) years for random audit by the Board, if requested. At the time of license
renewal, each licensee shall be required to attest that he/she has complied with
the continuing education requirements stated herein. Failure to produce
satisfactory documentation of completion of continuing education requirements
upon request by the Board may constitute grounds for disciplinary action.
F.
Licensure renewal shall be denied to any applicant who fails to attest to completion of
continuing education courses relevant to the practice of dental hygiene as required by
these Regulations.
1.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 1.1.1G of this Part, no license to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene in Rhode Island shall be refused, nor shall any license
be suspended or revoked, except as: (1) provided for in the Act; and (2) failure
to attest to completion of continuing education as provided by these Regulations.
G.
The Board may, however, extend for only one (1) six (6) month period such educational
requirements, if the Board is satisfied that the applicant has suffered hardship which
prevented the applicant from meeting the requirements of this Part.
2.7.6 Continuing Education and Training of Dental Assistants
A.
All dental assistants practicing in a dental setting shall hold a current certificate of
completion. Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider that includes a hands-
on skill component and conforms to the current American Heart Association Guidelines
Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
(ECC) offered by any accredited agency approved by the Board. Additionally, all dental
assistants practicing in a dental setting shall receive a minimum of one (1) hour per
year of training on the CDC Infection Control Guidelines.
B.
Issuance and Renewal of License – Dental Hygienists
C.
A license shall be issued by the Board to an applicant found to have satisfactorily met
all the requirements of this Part. Said license unless sooner suspended or revoked shall
expire biennially on the 30th of June of each even-numbered year.
D.
Every person so licensed who desires to renew his or her license shall file with the
Board by the 1st of May in each even-numbered year, a renewal application duly
executed together with attestation to completion of continuing education requirements
and the renewal fee as determined biennially by the Director of Health in consultation
with the Board, and as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations
Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services
Provided by the Department of Health. Upon receipt of such application and payment
of said fee, a license renewal shall be granted effective for the biennial licensure period
unless sooner suspended or revoked.
1.
For those licensees who shall have attained the age of not less than seventy
(70) years ("emeritus active") as of June 30th of the year of licensure, the
renewal fee (non- refundable) shall be as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory
and Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health.
E.
Pursuant to the provisions of section R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-21 of the Act, the
registration certificate of all dental hygienists whose renewals accompanied by the
prescribed fee are not filed on or before the first day of July of each even numbered
year, shall be automatically revoked. The Board may in its discretion and upon the
payment by the dental hygienist of the current licensure (registration) fee plus an
additional fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining
to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services Provided by
the Department of Health, reinstate any license (certificate) revoked under the
provisions of the Act and these Regulations.
2.7.7 Inactive Status
A.
Dental hygienists not intending to practice in this state may request on a biennial basis
to be placed on inactive status. Such requests shall be made in writing to the dental
administrator and shall be accompanied by a fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health.
B.
Persons on inactive status may be reinstated by paying the current annual registration
fee and shall meet such requirements established by the Act and as prescribed in these
Regulations, including attesting to completion of the required continuing dental
education courses relevant to the practice of dental hygiene as specified in § 0 of this
Part.
2.8 DAANCE-Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant
Licensing Requirements
2.8.1 License Requirements
A.
No person shall perform any act which constitutes the practice of certified maxillofacial
surgery assisting in Rhode Island unless such person is duly licensed in accordance
with the Act and these Regulations as a DAANCE- certified maxillofacial surgery
assistant.
1.
Furthermore, dental hygienists, public health dental hygienists, DAANCE-
certified maxillofacial surgery assistants, DANB-certified assistants and dental
assistants, shall perform only those auxiliary dental services, procedures/duties,
and under the specified type of supervision, as set forth in § 0 of this Part. Those
persons listed in R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-37 are exempt from these
requirements.
2.8.2 Qualifications for Licensure- DAANCE-certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant
A.
An applicant seeking licensure to practice maxillofacial surgery assisting in Rhode
Island shall:
1.
Be of good moral character;
2.
Be eighteen (18) years of age or over;
3.
Have successfully completed an approved program for Dental Anesthesia
Assistants National Certification Examination (DAANCE) accredited by the
American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons or its designated
agency;
4.
Be certified as a dental anesthesia assistant by the American Association of Oral
and Maxillofacial Surgeons or its designated agency;
5.
Hold a current certificate of completion of an approved course in Advanced
Cardiac Life Support (ACLS); and be in good standing in each state in which
he/she holds a license.
2.8.3 Application for Licensure and Fee
A.
Application for licensure shall be made on forms provided by the Board which shall be
completed and submitted to the Board thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled date of
the Board meeting. Such application shall be accompanied by the following documents
(non-returnable):
1.
a state driver’s license, a state-issued identification card or such other
identification papers acceptable to the Director that include birthdate and a
picture;
2.
Supporting official documentation of certification by Dental Anesthesia
Assistants National Certification Examination;
3.
Supporting documentation of certificate of completion of an approved course in
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
4.
Verification that the licensee is in good standing in state(s) where licensed [if
licensed in another state(s)]; and
5.
The application fee as set forth in the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the
Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services Provided by
the Department in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6.
2.8.4 Continuing Education--DAANCE-Certified maxillofacial surgery assistants
A.
Continuing education for DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants requires
those professionals to maintain a systematic course of continual learning as a condition
to maintain their professional license. In addition, continuing education is an effective
way for dental professionals to sustain knowledge of current and evolving tools,
techniques, technology, innovative medications and in-depth information on emerging
topics that will enhance their professional skills and abilities.
B.
Pursuant to the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-7, all DAANCE-certified
maxillofacial surgery assistants licensed to practice in Rhode Island under the
provisions of the Act and these Regulations, shall, on or before the first (1st day of May
of each even-numbered year, maintain evidence that in the preceding two (2) years he
or she has satisfactorily completed at least twenty (20) hours of continuing education
courses relevant to the practice of certified maxillofacial surgery assistants, according
to the criteria in Appendix A of this Part. Continuing education requirements cited in
these Regulations shall be pro-rated for a licensee whose license is in effect for a period
of less than two (2) years (i.e., an average of ten (10) hours of continuing education
shall be required each year the license is in effect).
C.
All DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants practicing in a dental setting shall
receive a minimum of one (1) hour per year of training on the CDC Infection Control
Guidelines.
D.
All DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants practicing in a dental setting shall
hold a current certificate of completion of an approved course in Basic Life Support
(BLS) for the Healthcare Provider that includes a hands-on skill component and
conforms to the current American Heart Association Guidelines Update for
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC)
offered by any accredited agency approved by the Board..
E.
If the applicant attests to completion of prescribed course(s) of continuing education
and is in compliance with the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6, the Board shall
issue the applicant a license registration for a two (2) year period in accordance with
the requirements of § 2.6.2 of this Part.
F.
It shall be the sole responsibility of the individual DAANCE-certified maxillofacial
surgery assistant to obtain documentation from the approved sponsoring or co-
sponsoring organization, agency or other, of his or her participation in the learning
experience, including the date and number of hours earned.
G.
These documents shall be safeguarded by the DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery
assistant for a minimum of five (5) years for random audit by the Board, if requested.
At the time of license renewal, each licensee shall be required to attest that he/she has
complied with the continuing education requirements stated in these Regulations.
Failure to produce satisfactory documentation of completion of continuing education
requirements upon request by the Board may constitute grounds for disciplinary action.
H.
Licensure renewal shall be denied to any applicant who fails to attest to completion of
continuing education courses relevant to the practice of maxillofacial surgery assisting
as required by these Regulations.
I.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 1.1.1F and 1.1.1G of this Part, no license to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene or maxillofacial surgery assisting in Rhode Island shall be
refused, nor shall any license be suspended or revoked, except as:
1.
Provided for in the Act; and
2.
Failure to attest to completion of continuing education as provided by these
Regulations.
J.
The Board may, however, extend for only one (1) six (6) month period such educational
requirements, if the Board is satisfied that the applicant has suffered hardship which
prevented the applicant from meeting the requirements of this Part.
2.8.5 Issuance and Renewal of License – DAANCE- Certified Maxillofacial Surgery
Assistant
A.
A license shall be issued by the Board to an applicant found to have satisfactorily met
all the requirements of this Part. Said license unless sooner suspended or revoked shall
expire biennially on the 30th of June of each even-numbered year.
B.
Every person so licensed who desires to renew his or her license shall file with the
Board by the 1st of May in each even-numbered year, a renewal application duly
executed together with attestation to completion of continuing education requirements
and the renewal fee as determined biennially by the Director in consultation with the
Board, and as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to
the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services Provided by
the Department of Health. Upon receipt of such application and payment of said fee, a
license renewal shall be granted effective for the biennial licensure period unless
sooner suspended or revoked.
1.
For those licensees who shall have attained the age of not less than seventy
(70) years ("emeritus active") as of June 30th of the year of licensure, the
renewal fee (non-refundable) shall be as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory
and Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health.
C.
Pursuant to the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-21, the registration certificate of
all DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants whose renewals accompanied by
the prescribed fee are not filed on or before the 1st day of July of each even numbered
year, shall be automatically revoked. The Board may in its discretion and upon the
payment by the DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant of the current
licensure (registration) fee plus an additional fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health, reinstate any license
(certificate) revoked under the provisions of the Act and these Regulations.
D.
Inactive Status
1.
DAANCE-Certified maxillofacial surgery assistants not intending to practice in
Rhode Island may request on a biennial basis to be placed on inactive status.
Such requests shall be made in writing to the dental administrator and shall be
accompanied by a fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and
Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health.
2.
Persons on inactive status may be reinstated by paying the current annual
registration fee and shall meet such requirements established by the Act and as
prescribed in these Regulations, including attesting to completion of the required
continuing dental education courses relevant to the practice of maxillofacial
surgery assisting as specified in § 0 of this Part.
2.9 Public Health Dental Hygiene Practice
2.9.1 Qualifications
A.
A public health dental hygienist may provide dental services which are educational,
preventive, therapeutic, prophylactic and intra-oral in nature as may be authorized by
the Board and may perform all tasks as set forth under the Act and these Regulations.
B.
Educational requirements for the Public Health Dental Hygiene Practitioner
1.
Prior to practicing as a public health dental hygienist a dental hygienist shall
complete a minimum of twelve (12) hours of continuing education as follows:
a.
A minimum of six (6) hours of hands-on experience in a public health
setting.
b.
Successful completion of the following courses within twenty-four (24)
months prior to license issuance: Public Health Fundamentals, CDC
Guidelines (Infection Control), Risk management for practice in a public
health setting and Management of medical emergencies, which are
offered by an educational institution with a program accredited by the
Commission on Dental Accreditation.
2.
The public health dental hygienist shall permanently retain documentation
demonstrating compliance of continuing educational requirement including a
signed affidavit that confirms successful completion.
C.
A public health dental hygienist practicing in a public health setting may perform those
services which are authorized by the Board to be provided in a public health setting,
pursuant to a written collaborative agreement (WCA).
D.
A registered dental hygienist practicing in a public health setting may provide dental
hygiene services including placement of sealants, without first having a dentist examine
the patient, pursuant to a written collaborative agreement (WCA).
E.
Public health dental hygienists shall maintain current malpractice insurance.
2.9.2 Application Process
A.
Application for licensure shall be made on forms provided by the Board
B.
Rhode Island Registered Dental Hygienists shall provide the following documents with
their application:
1.
Verification that their license is in good standing in state(s) where licensed [if
licensed in another state(s)];
2.
Verification that they have worked full time as a Registered Dental Hygienist for
at least three (3) years full time or have completed at least 4500 hours of clinical
experience;
3.
Verification of additional training as set forth in § 1.9 of this Part;
4.
The application fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations
Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative
Services Provided by the Department of Health in accordance with R.I. Gen.
Laws § 5-31.1-6.
C.
Applicants holding a Dental Hygienist License from another state shall provide the
following documents with their application:
1.
A state driver’s license, a state-issued identification card or such other
identification papers acceptable to the Director that include birthdate and a
picture;
2.
Supporting official transcript of education credentials signed by the dean or
registrar of the program of dental hygiene; National board results in accordance
with § 7.3 of this Part, (submitted either with the application or submitted by the
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination to the Board);
3.
The results of the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) examination
(formerly Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners, Inc., examination
(NERB) or other dental examination organizations (as required in § 7.3 of this
Part) submitted directly by the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment
(CDCA) (formerly the Board of Northeast Regional Board of Dental Examiners,
Inc. or by the board of the other dental examination organizations;
4.
Verification that the licensee is in good standing in state(s) where licensed [if
licensed in another state(s)];
5.
Verification that they have worked full time as a Registered Dental Hygienist for
at least three (3) years full time or have completed at least 4500 hours of clinical
experience;
6.
Verification of additional training as set forth in § 1.9 of this Part; and the
application fee as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations
Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative
Services Provided by the Department of Health in accordance with R.I. Gen.
Laws § 5-31.1-6.
2.9.3
Written Collaborative Agreement (WCA) with a Public Health Dental Hygienist
A.
A public health dental hygienist shall:
1.
Enter into a written collaborative agreement (WCA) which complies with the
requirements before rendering treatment to provide any dental hygiene services
in a public health setting pursuant to the collaborative agreement;
2.
Maintain contact and document communication with the dentist with whom the
public health dental hygienist has entered into a written collaborative agreement
(WCA) as set forth within that agreement.
3.
Practice in accordance with these Regulations;
4.
Practice in accordance with systems, policies and procedures established
pursuant to the Board, the Act and these Regulations.
5.
Obtain written and signed informed consent from the patient or legal
representative which complies with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-4.6-1 and the Board
regulations which informs the patient or legal representative that the services
provided by the public health dental hygienist are not a substitute for a dental
examination by a dentist and informs the patient that the patient or legal
representative should obtain, or should have had a dental examination by a
dentist within ninety (90) days.
6.
Provide each patient with a written Information Sheet at the conclusion of the
patient’s visit. Said Information Sheet shall, at a minimum, include the following:
a.
Results of the dental hygiene evaluation;
b.
The name(s) of the public health dental hygienists and any licensed
dentist and other dental auxiliaries who provided services;
c.
A description of the treatment rendered including, but not limited to,
billable service codes and fees associated with treatment, and tooth
numbers, when appropriate;
d.
Information on how to contact the public health dental hygienist, public
health setting’s program director, mobile dental facility or portable dental
operation permit holder;
e.
If necessary, provide a referral for emergency assessment by a dentist;
f.
When a referral is made, the patient or legal representative shall be
referred to the patient’s regular dentist if one is identified. If none is
identified, then the patient or legal representative shall be provided with
the names of dentist(s), community health center(s) or dental school
clinic(s) located within a reasonable geographic distance from the
patient’s home and with whom the public health dental hygienist or dental
health services program has communicated with regarding the
acceptance of referrals;
g.
The name and signature of the public health dental hygienist; and
h.
If the patient or legal representative has given consent for an institutional
facility (e.g. school, nursing home) to access the patient’s dental health
records, then the dental hygienist shall also provide the institution with a
copy of the Information Sheet for each patient.
B.
A dentist entering into a written collaborative agreement (WCA) with a public health
dental hygienist may, but is not required to, provide subsequent dental treatment to
patients served under said agreement.
C.
Written Collaborative Agreement (WCA). A collaborative agreement between a public
health dental hygienist and a municipality or state agency or institution, or with a
licensed dentist who holds a valid Rhode Island dental license shall, at a minimum
address all of the following:
1.
Identify by name(s) the dentist(s) who shall be available to provide the
appropriate level of communications and consultation with the public health
dental hygienist to ensure patient health and safety;
2.
Describe, with specificity how communication and consultation between the
dentist and public health dental hygienist will be accomplished including the
frequency and arrangements for back-up coverage when the dentist is not
accessible to provide communication and consultation (e.g. during vacation,
illness);
3.
Provide the names, license numbers, address(es), telephone and facsimile
number(s) and emergency contact information for the dentist(s) and public
health dental hygienist;
4.
Identify entity(ies) and geographic area(s) where public health dental hygienist
services will be provided pursuant to the collaborative agreement;
5.
Specify the dental hygiene procedures to be provided and the populations to be
served pursuant to the collaborative agreement;
6.
Specify and describe responsibilities for creating, maintaining, storing, retrieving
and providing for the confidentiality of patient records;
7.
Specify and describe responsibilities for establishing systems, policies and
procedures to ensure compliance with Board regulations, including but not
limited to requirements of Mobile and Portable Dentistry as may be applicable;
8.
Specify and describe responsibilities for developing, implementing, and
maintaining emergency medical protocols and for the provision of periodic
review and training on same;
9.
include any considerations for age-related procedure-specific protocols as may
be deemed necessary by the dentist or public health dental hygienist;
10.
Include any considerations for medically-compromised patients as may be
deemed necessary by the dentist or public health dental hygienist;
11.
Outline responsibilities for billing and reimbursement for services rendered by
the dental hygienist in the public health setting, if indicated;
12.
Identify a process for the public health dental hygienist to legally obtain
prescription products (e.g. chemotherapeutics, fluoride varnish) pertinent to the
provision of dental hygiene services and which are to be utilized when rendering
services in a public health setting; and
13.
Term of the collaborative agreement, if applicable.
D.
The dentist and public health dental hygienist shall review and update the written
collaborative agreement on an annual basis, as a minimum frequency.
E.
The dentist and public health dental hygienist shall immediately notify each other and,
if applicable, the municipality, state agency or institution involved in the collaborative
agreement of any disciplinary action imposed by the Board or any other governmental
agency against his/her license to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in the State of
Rhode Island.
F.
A copy of the written collaborative agreement shall be maintained by the municipality,
state agency or institution, licensed dentist and the public health dental hygienist. Upon
written request, said agreement shall be made available to the Board, or to a patient
who received treatment pursuant to the agreement or his/her legal representative.
G.
Each public health dental hygienist shall maintain the following data to be reported to
the Rhode Island Department of Health Oral Health Program on forms and in
accordance with procedures and timelines established by that program:
1.
The dates of each session with name and address of the site where public health
dental hygiene services were provided; and
2.
The number of patients served.
2.9.4 Availability of Dental Records
A.
Request for Copy of Dental Record. The public health dental hygienist shall provide
upon request by a patient or a specifically authorized person, a complete copy of the
patient’s dental record in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-10 (10) A copy of
the patient record including radiographs and other images, shall be provided within a
reasonable amount of time not to exceed thirty (30) calendar days from the date of the
request. The public health dental hygienist may charge a reasonable fee for the
expense of providing a patient’s dental record, not to exceed the cost of either labor
and/or material incurred in the copying of the patient record, radiographs and models.
The Public Health Dental Hygienist shall not require payment for dental services
rendered as a condition of providing a copy of the dental record.
B.
Treatment in a School Setting. Where consent has been granted by the patient or legal
representative, a copy of the patient’s summary of care or other written summary of the
screening, examination, or treatment shall be provided to the official designated by the
school.
C.
Treatment in a Nursing Home or Residential Treatment Facility. A copy of the patient’s
summary of care or other written summary of the screening, examination, or treatment
shall be provided to the official designated by the facility or institution and shall be made
part of the patient record maintained by the nursing home or residential facility
D.
Electronic patient records shall comply with the requirements of HIPAA (Public Law
104-191 and the Confidentiality of Health Care Communications and Information Act,
R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-37.3 and shall be unalterable and producible in paper form upon
request.
2.9.5 Content of Patient Records
A.
The patient record shall be a complete record of all patient contact, including, but not
limited to, a general description of the patient’s medical and dental history and status
at time of examination, assessments and /or diagnosis provided by a dentist, patient
education, treatment plan, referral for specialty treatment, medications administered
and prescribed, pre- and post-treatment instructions and information conveyed to the
patient. Patient records shall be legible and clear in meaning to a subsequent examining
or treating dentist, the patient, dental auxiliary or other authorized persons.
B.
Public health dental hygienist proprietary forms shall include language as approved by
the Board:
2.9.6 Required Referrals.
Public health dental hygienists will refer patients without a dental provider to a public or
private dentist with the goal of establishing a dental home for the patient. When the
public health dental hygienist determines at a subsequent appointment that there are
conditions present which require evaluation for treatment, and the patient has not seen
a dentist as referred, the dental hygienist will make every practical or reasonable effort
to schedule the patient with a Rhode Island dentist or local private dentist volunteer for
an examination, treatment plan and follow up care, or a community health center if
available.
2.9.7 Radiograph
Digital radiographs are recommended and follow the current ADA guidelines for taking
radiographs. The collaborating and currently licensed Rhode Island dentist shall
evaluate the radiographs within thirty (30) days of exposure.
2.9.8 Temporary Restorative Procedures
A public health dental hygienist, as defined by these Regulations may perform
reversible procedures including but not limited to temporary restorative procedures
without a dentist present under protocols developed by the Board of Dentistry as
outlined in Appendix B –titled ”Protocols for the Placement of Temporary Restorations
by a Public Health Dental Hygienist.
2.9.9
Continuing Education Requirements
A.
Public health dental hygienists; shall obtain a minimum of six (6) hours of continuing
education in courses related to public health. These six (6) hours are included in the
required twenty (20) hours of continuing education required every two (2) years
following the criteria listed in Appendix A. The following public health topics are
recommended:
1.
Home & Community – Based Care
a.
Youth Services
(1)
School-based care
(2)
Head Start & Early Head Start
(3)
Day Care
2.
Eldercare Services
3.
Community- based settings (e.g. nursing homes, assisted living)
4.
Homebound – All Populations (including individuals with disabilities)
B.
Third Party Payment Models & Business 101
C.
Grant Writing 101
D.
Diversity Training & Case Management Concepts
2.10 Delegable Procedures/Duties to Dental Hygienists, Public
Health Dental Hygienists, DANB-Certified Assistants ,
DAANCE-Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistants and
Dental Assistants with Specific Type of Supervision
2.10.1 General Requirements
A.
Dental Hygienists. Pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-33, any licensed dentist, public
institution or school authority may employ any licensed dental hygienist whose activities
shall be confined to those dental services, procedures/duties that licensed dental
hygienist he/she has been educated to perform and which are authorized by the Board,
and under the specific type of supervision as set forth in § 0 of this Part. Such dental
procedures/duties may be delegated by the dentist and performed under the direction
of the dentist, in accordance with the provisions of the Act and these Regulations.
1.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize a licensed dental hygienist
or public health dental hygienist to perform any of the non-delegable
(exclusionary) procedures/ duties as set forth in § 0 of this Part.
B.
DANB-Certified Assistants, DAANCE-Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistants and
Dental Assistants. A dentist may delegate to a DANB-certified assistant, DAANCE-
certified maxillofacial surgery assistant or a dental assistant, based on the individual's
competency and/or training, reversible intraoral dental services, procedures or duties
which are to be performed under the supervision of the dentist as approved by the
Board and set forth in § 0 of this Part. Provided, however, oral prophylaxis shall be
performed only by a licensed dentist or a licensed dental hygienist.
1.
Nothing in this section shall authorize a DANB- certified assistant or a dental
assistant to perform any of the non-delegable (exclusionary) procedures/duties
as set forth in § 0 of this Part.
C.
All procedures/duties performed by dental auxiliaries shall be performed under the
direct supervision of a dentist, unless otherwise specified in § 0 of this Part.
D.
Any reversible intraoral procedure not specifically enumerated as delegable or non-
delegable (exclusionary) pursuant to § 0 and § 0 of this Part, may be delegated to any
category of dental auxiliary, (dental hygienist, public health dental hygienist, DANB-
certified assistant, DAANNCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant and dental
assistant) based on the discretion of the delegating dentist, the education and training
and competency of the dental auxiliary.
E.
The supervising dentist shall be accountable and fully responsible for all dental
services, procedures and duties performed by any dental auxiliary under his or her
supervision. However, a dental auxiliary is responsible for his/her own professional
behavior and shall be guided by existing professional standards.
2.10.2 Delegable Procedures/Duties
A.
A dentist may delegate to auxiliary personnel those procedures which the dentist may
deem advisable, except for those procedures excluded in § 0 of this Part. Any delegated
procedures shall be both the responsibility of and under the specified supervision of the
dentist.
1.
Dental Hygienist and Public Health Dental Hygienist. A dental hygienist or a
public health dental hygienist, may remove calculus, accretions and stains from
both supragingival and subgingival tooth surfaces by scaling and root planing,
as well as any duties performed by a DANB-certified assistant or a dental
assistant. These procedures may be accomplished under general supervision,
in a dental office, and under general supervision of the dentist.
2.
DANB-Certified Assistant
a.
A DANB-certified assistant may perform reversible intraoral procedures
under the direct supervision of the dentist.
b.
Such procedures may include the application of pit and fissure sealants,
coronal polishing, placing and/or removing retraction cord; fluoride
treatments; and placement or removal of bonded orthodontic attachments
and/or cementation or removal of orthodontic bands provided:
(1)
Such procedures were incorporated into the academic training
from which the DANB- certified assistant graduated; OR
(2)
Provided he/she has completed academic clinical training to
clinical competence.
3.
The DANB- certified assistant may not perform any of the procedures specifically
listed for a dental hygienist, nor any irreversible intraoral procedures.
4.
Dental Assistant. A dental assistant may perform reversible intraoral procedures
under the direct supervision of the dentist. He/she may not perform any of the
procedures listed specifically for a licensed dental hygienist or DANB-certified
assistant nor any irreversible intraoral procedures.
a.
A dental assistant may perform a final digital scan with final inspection
and approval of the dentist.
B.
Dentists licensed pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6 may delegate to any dental
hygienists licensed pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6 who are employed on a
regular basis by such dentists any procedures which he or she may deem advisable;
including those procedures specified under § 0 of this Part pertaining to dentists and
dental hygienists and any such dental hygienists may engage in the practice of dental
hygiene outside of such dentists' office in order to render to residents of nursing facilities
licensed pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-17 without the on-site direct
supervision of a dentist licensed pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-6, those dental
services, procedures and duties that he or she has been educated to perform and which
are authorized by the Board or through R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-39.
2.10.3 Non-Delegable (Exclusionary) Procedures/Duties
A.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 1.14 of this Part, nothing in these Regulations
authorize a dental hygienist, public health dental hygienist, DANB- certified assistant or
dental assistant, to perform any of the following procedures or duties:
B.
Diagnosis and treatment planning;
1.
Surgical procedures on hard or soft tissue;
2.
Prescribing medications;
3.
Administering general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation and/or
minimal sedation, or nitrous oxide plus medication;
4.
Administering inhalants ;
5.
Taking conventional/ physical impressions for models upon which full or partial
dentures, or permanent crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, posts and cores will be
fabricated;
6.
Adjusting occlusion of fixed and removable prosthodontic appliances;
7.
Final cementation of permanent crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays and posts and
cores; and insertion of final prosthesis.
8.
Condensing and carving restorative materials in teeth, except temporary
restoratives;
9.
Placement of sutures;
10.
Exposure of radiographs without successful completion of a course in dental
radiography which is offered by an education institution with a program
accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and which fulfills
institutional requirements as set forth in R.I. Gen. Laws § 40-20-1;
11.
Perform direct pulp capping procedures;
12.
Orthodontic arch wire activation with the exception of minor adjustments to
eliminate pain or discomfort;
13.
Flush root canal;
14.
Temporary wire ligation; and
15.
Use of a rotary instrument in the oral cavity unless licensed or certified under the
provisions of the Act and these Regulations. (See also § 1.1.1E.2.b of this Part).
2.11 Administration of Anesthesia in Dental Offices
2.11.1 General Requirements
A.
Any dentist licensed in Rhode Island who is administering, permitting the administration
of, or intending to administer general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation,
minimal sedation, or nitrous oxide analgesia in his or her dental office, shall meet the
statutory and regulatory requirements herein, and shall hold a permit granted by the
Board to administer or to permit the administration of general anesthesia/deep
sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia in his or her
dental office.
B.
Any licensed dentist permitted to administer general anesthesia/deep sedation,
moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia who intends to do so
in a dental office in this state that does not have a facility permit allowing the
administration of these anesthesia services on the premises, as required by § 2.13.2 of
this Part, shall be allowed to do so only with prior approval of the Board.
C.
As a condition for this approval, the Board, or its designee, may inspect all equipment
utilized for the purpose of administering general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate
sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia. Said equipment shall meet all
applicable requirements of § 0 and § 0 of this Part.
D.
The Board’s written approval shall be obtained by the licensed dentist prior to
commencing the anesthesia services described in this section.
E.
Those licensed dentists approved by the Board to engage in the practice of
administering general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation
or nitrous oxide analgesia in those dental offices that do not possess a facility permit
allowing the administration of these anesthesia services on the premises shall submit
a written schedule at intervals required by the Board describing the frequency and
location(s) of anesthesia services rendered.
2.11.2 Qualifications for Permit
A.
An applicant seeking a permit to administer or to permit the administration of general
anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide
analgesia shall:
1.
For General Anesthesia/Deep Sedation:
a.
Be licensed as a dentist in Rhode Island; and
b.
Have completed an advanced training program in anesthesia and related
subjects beyond the undergraduate dental curriculum that satisfies the
requirements described in the American Dental Association Guidelines
for Teaching Pain Control and Sedation to Dentists and Dental Students
(October 2007); or
c.
Have completed an American Dental Association accredited post-
doctoral training program (e.g., oral and maxillofacial surgery) which
affords comprehensive and appropriate training necessary to administer
and manage deep sedation/general anesthesia, commensurate with the
American Dental Association Guidelines for Teaching Pain Control and
Sedation to Dentists and Dental Students (October 2007); or
d.
Be employed or practice in conjunction with a Board certified or Board
eligible anesthesiologist.
2.
For Moderate Sedation:
a.
Be licensed as a dentist in Rhode Island; and
b.
Satisfy one of the following education and training requirements:
c.
Completion of a comprehensive training program in moderate sedation
consistent with that prescribed in the ADA Guidelines for Teaching Pain
Control and Sedation to Dentists and Dental Students (October 2007); or
d.
Completion of an ADA accredited post-doctoral training program which
affords comprehensive and appropriate training necessary to administer
and manage moderate sedation; or,
e.
Meet one of the requirements as set forth in §§ 1.b1.1.1E.1.b through
1.1.1E.1.d of this Part.
3.
For Minimal Sedation:
a.
Be licensed as a dentist in Rhode Island; and
b.
Satisfy one of the following education and training requirements:
c.
Completion of a comprehensive training program in minimal sedation that
satisfies the requirements described in the ADA Guidelines for Teaching
Pain Control and Sedation to Dentists and Dental Students (October
2007);
d.
Completion of an ADA accredited post-doctoral training program (e.g.,
general practice residency) which affords comprehensive and appropriate
training necessary to administer and manage minimal sedation; or,
e.
Meet one of the requirements as set forth in §§ 1.1.1E.1.b through
1.1.1E.1.d or §§ 1.1.1E.2.b through 1.1.1E.2.d of this Part.
4.
For Nitrous Oxide Analgesia:
a.
Be licensed as a dentist in Rhode Island; and
b.
Meet one of the requirements as set forth §§ 1.1.1E.1.b through
1.1.1E.1.d or §§ 1.1.1E.2.b through 1.1.1E.2.d or §§ 1.1.1E.3.b through
1.1.1E.3.d of this Part; or
c.
Have satisfactorily completed a nitrous oxide analgesia training program
from a school accredited by the American Dental Association, and whose
training program is consistent with the provisions of the Guidelines for
Teaching Pain Control and Sedation to Dentists and Dental Students
(October 2007) of the American Dental Association, Council on Dental
Education and which includes clinical experience in the administration of
nitrous oxide analgesia.
2.11.3 Application
A.
Application for a permit shall be made on forms provided by the Board which shall be
completed and submitted to the Board thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled date of
the Board meeting. Such application shall be accompanied by the following documents
(non-returnable and non-refundable):
B.
Supporting official transcripts of verification of the qualification requirements as set forth
in § 1.1.1E.1 or § 1.1.1E.2 or § 1.1.1E.3 or § 1.1.1E.4 of this Part;
C.
A statement attesting that he or she has or has not been involved in any morbidity or
mortality secondary to the administration of general anesthesia/deep sedation,
moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia; and
D.
The permit fee, where applicable, as determined annually by the Director of Health in
consultation with the Board and as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and
Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health; and
E.
Such other information as may be deemed necessary and as may be requested by the
Board.
2.11.4 Issuance and Renewal of Permit
A.
Upon receipt of an application for a permit to administer or to permit the administration
of general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous
oxide analgesia, the Board with the advice of the advisory consultant(s), may issue a
permit to an applicant found to meet all the prescribed requirements herein. Said permit
unless sooner suspended or revoked shall expire on June 30 of each even numbered
year.
B.
Every person issued a permit who desires to renew his or her permit shall file with the
Board one (1) month before the date of expiration of permit, a renewal application duly
executed together with the renewal fee, where applicable, as determined biennially by
the Director in consultation with the Board and as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health. Upon receipt of such
renewal application and payment of any fee, a renewal shall be issued effective for two
(2) years from the date of renewal, unless sooner suspended or revoked.
C.
Any person who allows his or her permit to lapse through accident, mistake or
unforeseen cause by failing to renew the permit on or before the expiration date, may
be reinstated upon filing an application with payment of the current renewal fee, where
applicable, in accordance with § 0 of this Part.
2.11.5 Inspections
A.
The Board may, through appointed advisory consultants, conduct such inspections and
investigations as deemed necessary by the Board to ensure compliance with the
requirements of this Part.
B.
Refusal to permit inspection shall constitute a valid ground for permit denial, suspension
or revocation.
C.
Every applicant shall be given notice by the Board of all deficiencies reported as a result
of an inspection or investigation.
2.11.6 Inactive Status
A.
A dentist who holds a permit for the administration of or to permit the administration of
general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous
oxide analgesia in his or her dental office and who desires to withdraw from the practice
of dental anesthesia in his or her office, may request from the Board that his or her
permit be withdrawn and placed on an inactive status.
B.
A dentist whose permit has been inactive for more than one (1) year may be reactivated
upon application to the Board and submission of any current application fee, as set forth
in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for
Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services Provided by the Department of
Health. The Board shall determine, at its discretion, whether or not to reactivate the
permit or require renewed proof of competency or need for additional educational
requirements.
2.11.7 General Anesthesia/Deep Sedation, Moderate Sedation, Minimal Sedation, or
Nitrous Oxide Analgesia Services
A.
Personnel
1.
A dentist administering or permitting the administration of general
anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide
analgesia shall ensure that there is a sufficient number of members on the ”team
of auxiliary personnel" to assist in handling procedures and emergencies.
2.
The dentist administering or permitting the administration of general anesthesia/
deep sedation shall hold a current certificate in Advanced Cardiac Life Support,
as described in the Guidelines for the Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia
by Dentists (October 2007).
3.
The dentist administering or permitting the administration of moderate sedation
shall hold a current certificate in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, as described
in the most current version of the American Dental Association, Guidelines for
the Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia by Dentists (October 2007).
4.
The dentist administering or permitting the administration of minimal sedation
shall hold a current certificate in Basic Cardiac Life Support, as described in the
American Dental Association, Guidelines for the Use of Sedation and General
Anesthesia by Dentists (October 2007).
5.
The dentist administering or permitting the administration of nitrous oxide
analgesia shall hold a current certificate in Basic Life Support.
6.
Each member of the “team of auxiliary personnel" shall hold a current certificate
in Basic Life Support.
B.
Management of Services:
1.
Written policies and procedures shall be established regarding: (1) the
administration of general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal
sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia; (2) maintenance of safety controls; (3)
qualifications and supervision of the “team of auxiliary personnel" involved in the
general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or
nitrous oxide analgesia service. In addition, the policies shall include provisions
for no less than the following:
a.
Pre-anesthesia evaluation;
b.
Safety of the patient during the anesthesia period;
c.
Review of patient's condition prior to induction of general anesthesia/deep
sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia,
and post-anesthetic evaluation;
d.
Signed informed consent obtained prior to the administration of general
anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or
nitrous oxide analgesia. In the case of a minor, consent from a parent or
legal guardian shall be obtained; in case of emergency, an oral permit will
be acceptable;
e.
Recording of all events related to the administration of general
anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or
nitrous oxide analgesia;
f.
Written report(s) of any morbidity requiring hospitalization or mortality
occurring in the dental office as a result of general anesthesia/deep
sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia,
and/or Board certified or Board eligible anesthesiologists, employed by or
practicing in conjunction with a dentist shall remain on the premises of the
dental office until the patient has been discharged from the dentist’s (or
anesthesiologist’s) care.
C.
Monitoring and Documentation
1.
A dentist administering or permitting the administration of general
anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation or minimal sedation shall ensure
that the following monitoring and documentation requirements are met:
a.
Monitoring: direct clinical observation of the patient during administration
shall occur.
b.
Oxygenation: the color of mucosa, skin or blood should be continually
evaluated. Oxygen saturation shall be evaluated continuously by pulse
oximetry.
c.
Ventilation: chest excursion shall be observed. The dentist shall
auscultate breath sounds or monitor end-tidal CO2.
d.
Circulation: The dentist shall continually evaluate blood pressure and
heart rate (unless the patient is unable to tolerate such monitoring).
e.
Documentation: An appropriate time-oriented anesthetic record shall be
maintained. The dentist shall document individuals present during the
administration of anesthesia.
f.
Recovery and Discharge: Oxygen and suction equipment shall be
immediately available in the recovery area and/or operatory. There shall
be continual monitoring of oxygenation, ventilation, and circulation when
the anesthetic is no longer being administered. The patient shall have
continuous supervision until oxygenation, ventilation, and circulation are
stable and the patient is appropriately responsive for discharge from the
facility. The dentist shall determine and document that oxygenation,
ventilation, and circulation are stable prior to discharge. The dentist shall
provide explanation and documentation of postoperative instructions to
the patient and/or a responsible adult at the time of discharge. The dentist
shall determine that the patient has met discharge criteria prior to leaving
the office.
2.
The anesthesia permit holder shall be responsible for the anesthetic
management, adequacy of the facility/office, and treatment of emergencies
associated with the administration of anesthesia, including immediate access to
pharmacologic antagonists, if any, and appropriately sized equipment for
establishing a patent airway and providing positive pressure ventilation with
oxygen.
2.12 Administration of Local Anesthesia by Dental Hygienists
A.
A dental hygienist shall be qualified to administer local anesthesia only after
successfully completing a course in local anesthesia that:
1.
Is offered by an institution accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation
of the American Dental Association;
2.
Is a minimum of twenty (20) didactic hours and twelve (12) clinical hours;
3.
Includes no less than the following topics:
a.
Neurophysiology of pain and pain control;
b.
Pharmacology of local anesthetic solutions and drug interactions;
c.
Potential local and systemic complications;
d.
Medical and dental indications and contraindications and emergency
management;
e.
Medical and dental history and assessment;
f.
Safe assembly and handling of a syringe;
g.
Location of anatomical landmarks associated with local anesthesia;
h.
Injection techniques;
i.
Clinical experience with maxillary and mandibular injections by
administering infiltration and block injections;
j.
Legal issues associated with local anesthesia administration by a dental
hygienist;
k.
Record keeping.
4.
Provides written evidence of successful course completion provided by the
sponsoring organization; and
5.
Current certification in basic life and cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the “health
care provider” level by a nationally recognized organization.
B.
A dental hygienist qualified to administer local anesthesia shall have successfully
completed a local anesthesia examination administered by the CDCA.
C.
A dental hygienist qualified to administer local anesthesia shall do so only under the
indirect supervision of a dentist. Dental hygiene faculty members who are licensed to
administer local anesthesia may do so within the scope of the academic setting of which
they are employed under the general supervision of the program’s consulting dentist in
the event that a supervising dentist is not available.
D.
If a dental hygienist graduated from an American Dental Association accredited school
of dental hygiene that did not include a course in local anesthesia that meets the
requirements of § 0 of this Part, a course that meets such requirements shall be
successfully completed before local anesthesia may be administered by the dental
hygienist.
E.
A dental hygienist who has qualified to administer local anesthesia in another
jurisdiction may qualify for endorsement by the Board to perform that function by
presenting written documentation of training equivalent to § 0 of this Part, including
successful completion of the local anesthesia portion of the CDCA examination or
successful completion of a substantially similar examination in the alternate jurisdiction.
2.12.2 Application for Permit
A.
Application for a two-year permit shall be made on forms provided by the Board which
shall be completed and submitted to the Board thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled
date of the Board meeting. Such application shall be accompanied by the following
documents (non-returnable and non-refundable):
1.
Local anesthesia. Supporting official transcripts of verification of the qualification
requirements as set forth in § 0 of this Part;
2.
Nitrous Oxide. Supporting official transcripts of verification of the qualification
requirements as set forth in § 1.13.3 of this Part;
3.
Local anesthesia. A statement attesting that he or she has or has not been
involved in any morbidity or mortality secondary to the administration of local
anesthesia;
4.
Nitrous Oxide. A statement attesting that he or she has or has not been involved
in any morbidity or mortality secondary to the administration of nitrous oxide;
5.
Local anesthesia. A payment as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and
Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health for a two (2) year
permit;
6.
Nitrous Oxide. A payment as set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and
Regulations Pertaining to the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and
Administrative Services Provided by the Department of Health for a two (2) year
permit; and
7.
Such other information as may be deemed necessary and as may be requested
by the Board.
2.12.3 Administration of Nitrous Oxide by Dental Hygienists
A.
A dental hygienist shall be qualified to administer nitrous oxide only after successfully
completing a course in nitrous oxide administration that:
1.
Is offered by an institution accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation
of the American Dental Association;
2.
Is a minimum of fifteen (15) didactic hours and five (5) clinical hours;
3.
Includes no less than the following topics:
a.
Nitrous oxide techniques;
b.
Pharmacology of nitrous oxide;
c.
Nitrous oxide analgesia medical emergency techniques; and
d.
Selection of pain control modalities, if available.
4.
Provides written evidence of successful course completion provided by the
sponsoring organization; and
5.
Current certification in basic life and cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the “health
care provider” level by a nationally recognized organization.
B.
A dental hygienist qualified to administer nitrous oxide shall have successfully
completed a nitrous oxide examination administered by the CDCA
C.
A dental hygienist qualified to administer nitrous oxide shall do so only under the direct
supervision of a dentist.
D.
If a dental hygienist graduated from an American Dental Association accredited school
of dental hygiene that did not include a course in nitrous oxide that meets the
requirements of § 0 of this Part, a course that meets such requirements shall be
successfully completed before nitrous oxide may be administered by the dental
hygienist.
E.
A dental hygienist who has qualified to administer nitrous oxide in another jurisdiction
may qualify for endorsement by the Board to perform that function by presenting written
documentation of training equivalent to § 0 of this Part, including successful completion
of the nitrous oxide portion of the CDCA examination or successful completion of a
substantially similar examination in the alternate jurisdiction.
2.13 Physical Facility, Equipment and Safety
A.
In order to ensure the protection and safety of patients receiving general
anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation or minimal sedation in a dental office,
the following standards shall be applied in determining the adequacy and safety of the
physical facility and equipment.
1.
The current standards of the American Dental Association, Guidelines for the
Use of Sedation and General Anesthesia by Dentists (October 2007) including
but not limited to the following equipment requirements:
a.
equipment shall have a fail-safe system that is appropriately checked and
calibrated;
b.
equipment shall have an appropriate scavenging system; and,
c.
if nitrous oxide and oxygen delivery equipment capable of delivering less
than 25% oxygen is used, an in-line oxygen analyzer shall be used;
2.
The standards for ”Occupational Exposure to Waste Anesthetic Gases and
Vapors" of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH);
and
3.
The Rhode Island Fire Safety Code where flammable anesthetics are present.
B.
In order to ensure the protection and safety of patients receiving nitrous oxide analgesia
in a dental office, the following requirements shall be applied in determining the
adequacy and safety of the physical facility and equipment:
1.
Equipment shall have a fail-safe system that is appropriately checked and
calibrated;
2.
Equipment shall have an appropriate scavenging system;
3.
If nitrous oxide and oxygen delivery equipment capable of delivering less than
twenty- five percent (25%) oxygen is used, an in-line oxygen analyzer shall be
used;
4.
Facilities and equipment shall conform to the standards for “Occupational
Exposure to Waste Anesthetic Gases and Vapors" of the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH); a
5.
Where flammable anesthetics are present, facilities and equipment shall
conform to the Rhode Island Fire Safety Code.
2.13.2 Facility Permit
A.
Prior to the administration of general anesthesia/deep sedation, moderate sedation,
minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia in a dental office by a qualified dentist as
described in § 0 of this Part and/or a Board certified or Board eligible anesthesiologist
employed by or practicing in conjunction with a dentist, each office site shall obtain a
facility permit to allow the administration of these anesthesia services on the premises.
1.
A facility permit is issued for one office site, and is non-transferable.
a.
Those dental office sites in which all anesthesia services are administered
by a licensed dentist approved by the Board to administer anesthesia
services as described in § 0 of this Part are exempt from the requirements
of § 2.13.2 of this Part.
2.
Application for a permit shall be made on forms provided by the Board. These
forms shall be completed, notarized and submitted to the Board thirty (30) days
prior to the scheduled date of the Board meeting. Such application shall be
accompanied by:
a.
The permit fee (non-refundable and non-returnable) as determined
annually by the Director of Health in consultation with the Board, and as
set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to
the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services
Provided by the Department of Health; and
b.
Such other information as may be deemed necessary and as may be
requested by the Board.
3.
Upon receipt of an application for a facility permit as described above, the Board,
with the advice of the advisory consultant(s), may issue a permit to an applicant
found to meet all the prescribed requirements of this Part. Said permit unless
sooner suspended or revoked will expire five (5) years from the date of issuance.
a.
To renew such permit, the applicant will file with the Board a renewal
application at least one (1) month before the date of expiration of the
permit, duly executed together with the renewal fee as determined
annually by the Director of Health in consultation with the Board, and as
set forth in 216-RICR-10-05-2, the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to
the Fee Structure for Licensing, Laboratory and Administrative Services
Provided by the Department of Health. Upon receipt of such renewal
application and payment of any fee, a renewal shall be issued effective
for five (5) years from the date of renewal, unless sooner suspended or
revoked.
b.
Any applicant allowing this permit to lapse through accident, mistake or
unforeseen cause by failing to renew the permit on or before the
expiration date, may be reinstated upon filing an application with payment
of the current renewal fee in accordance with § 1.1.1A.3 of this Part.
4.
Those dental offices holding facility permits as described above may be subject
to inspections as described in § 0 of this Part.
2.13.3 Violations & Sanctions
A.
Failure to comply with any of the provisions of § 0 of this Part shall be cause for denial,
revocation or suspension of permit for the administration of general anesthesia/deep
sedation, moderate sedation, minimal sedation or nitrous oxide analgesia, and of
disciplinary action in accordance with § 2.15.1 of this Part.
B.
Furthermore, all hearings and reviews pertaining to the requirements as set forth in
these Regulations, will be subject to the provisions of § 0 of this Part.
2.14 Record Keeping and Disclosure
2.14.1 Availability of Dental Records
A.
A licensed dentist and/or other licensee shall maintain a dental record for each patient
which is adequate to enable the licensee and/or another licensee to provide proper
diagnosis and treatment. The dentist shall maintain a patient's written dental record
and radiographs (x-rays) for a minimum of five (5) years from the date of the last dental
visit, in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-3-26, entitled ”Vital Records." Records
of minors shall be kept for at least five (5) years after such minor will have reached the
age of eighteen (18) years. Records shall be maintained in a manner which permits
the patient and/or successor dentist access to these records.
B.
At a minimum, said records shall be legible and include:
1.
The name, address and date of birth of the patient and, if a minor, the name of
the parent or guardian and any disclosure statements, authorizations and/ or
consent forms;
2.
The patient’s medical history;
3.
A record of results of a clinical examination, where appropriate, or an indication
of the patient’s chief complaint;
4.
A treatment plan, where appropriate;
5.
The dates of each patient visit and a description of the treatment or services
rendered at each visit;
6.
A description of all radiographs taken and of diagnostic models made;
7.
The date, dosage and amount of any medication or drug prescribed, dispensed
or administered to the patient and Prescription Drug Monitoring Program query
results, if appropriate; and,
8.
A record of any recommendations or referrals for treatment or consultation by a
specialist, including those which were refused by the patient.
C.
Upon a patient's written request, a dentist shall provide a patient or another specifically
authorized person with a complete copy of and a detailed summary of the patient's
dental record, which includes all relevant data.
D.
A dentist may charge a reasonable fee for the expense of providing a patient's dental
record, not to exceed cost. The dentist shall not require prior payment of charges for
dental services as a condition for providing a copy of the dental record.
E.
Dentists shall maintain patient confidentiality in the storage and transfer of records
pursuant to the provisions of R.I. Gen Laws § 5-37.3,”Confidentiality of Health Care
Information Act."
F.
A dentist or other licensee treating the patient shall sign or initial the patient’s dental
record after each procedure or visit.
2.15 Violations, Sanctions, Severability
2.15.1 Denial, Revocation or Suspension of License/Violations and Sanctions
A.
Any dentist, dental hygienist, public health dental hygienist, or DAANCE-certified
maxillofacial surgery assistant may have his or her license revoked or suspended by
the Board: if said person has been found guilty of unprofessional conduct, which will
include, but not be limited to those items listed in R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-31.1-10 and as
stated below:
1.
Fraudulent or deceptive procuring or use of a license or limited registration;
2.
All advertising of dental or dental hygiene business which is intended or has a
tendency to deceive the public or a dentist advertising as a specialty in an area
of dentistry unless the dentist:
3.
Is a diplomate of or a fellow in a specialty board accredited or recognized by the
American Dental Association; or
4.
Has completed a post graduate program approved by the Commission on Dental
Accreditation of the American Dental Association;
5.
Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude; conviction of a felony; conviction
of a crime arising out of the practice of dentistry or of dental hygiene;
6.
Abandonment of patient;
7.
Dependence upon controlled substances, habitual drunkenness or rendering
professional services to a patient while the dentist or dental hygienist, or limited
registrant is intoxicated or incapacitated by the use of drugs;
8.
Promotion by a dentist, dental hygienist, limited registrant or DAANCE-certified
maxillofacial surgery assistant of the sale of drugs, devices, appliances, or goods
or services provided for a patient in a manner as to exploit the patient for the
financial gain of the dentist, dental hygienist, public health dental hygienist, or
limited registrant DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant;
9.
Immoral conduct of a dentist, dental hygienist, limited registrant, DAANCE-
certified maxillofacial surgery assistant in the practice of dentistry dental
hygiene, public health dental hygiene, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery
assisting;
10.
Willfully making and filing false reports or records in the practice of dentistry or
dental hygiene;
11.
Willful omission to file or record, or willfully impeding or obstructing a filing or
recording, or inducing another person to omit to file or record dental or other
reports as required by law;
12.
Failure to furnish details of a patient's dental record to succeeding dentists, or
dental care facility upon proper request pursuant to the Act;
13.
Solicitation of professional patronage by agents or persons or profiting from acts
of those representing themselves to be agents of the licensed dentist, dental
hygienist, public health dental hygienist, limited registrant, or DAANCE-certified
maxillofacial surgery assistant;
14.
Division of fees or agreeing to split or divide the fees received for professional
services for any person for bringing to or referring a patient;
15.
Agreeing with clinical or bioanalytical laboratories to accept payments from those
laboratories for individual tests or test series for patients, or agreeing with dental
laboratories to accept payment from those laboratories for work referred;
16.
Willful misrepresentation in treatments;
17.
Practicing dentistry with an unlicensed dentist or practicing dental hygiene with
an unlicensed dental hygienist except in an accredited training program, or with
a dental assistant in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Board or
aiding or abetting those unlicensed persons in the practice of dentistry or dental
hygiene;
18.
Gross and willful overcharging for professional services; including filing of false
statements for collection of fees for which services are not rendered or willfully
making or assisting in making a false claim or deceptive claim or misrepresenting
a material fact for use in determining rights to dental care or other benefits;
19.
Offering, undertaking, or agreeing to cure or treat disease by a secret method,
procedure, treatment, or medicine;
20.
Professional or mental incompetence;
21.
Incompetent, negligent, or willful misconduct in the practice of dentistry or dental
hygiene, which includes the rendering of unnecessary dental services and any
departure from or the failure to conform to the minimal standards of acceptable
and prevailing dental or dental hygiene practice in his or her area of expertise as
is determined by the Board. The Board need not establish actual injury to the
patient in order to adjudge a dentist, dental hygienist, public health dental
hygienist, limited registrant, or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistant
guilty of the previously named misconduct;
22.
Failure to comply with the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-4.7;
23.
Revocation, suspension, surrender, or limitation of privilege based on quality of
care provided or any other disciplinary action against a license to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene or DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assisting
in another state or jurisdiction, or revocation, suspension, surrender, or other
disciplinary action as to membership on any dental staff or in any dental or
professional association or society for conduct similar to acts or conduct which
would constitute grounds for action as prescribed in the Act;
24.
Any adverse judgment, settlement, or award arising from a dental liability claim
related to acts or conduct similar to acts or conduct which would constitute
grounds for action as defined in the Act or these Regulations;
25.
Failure to furnish the Board, its dental administrator, investigator, or
representatives, information legally requested by the Board;
26.
Violation of any provision(s) of the Act or the rules and regulations of the Board
or any rules and regulations promulgated by the Director or of an action,
stipulation or agreement of the Board;
27.
Cheating on or attempting to subvert the licensing examination;
28.
Violating any state or federal law or regulation relating to controlled substances;
29.
Failure to maintain standards established by peer review boards, including, but
not limited to, standards related to proper utilization of services, and use of non-
accepted procedure and/or quality of care;
30.
Malpractice as defined in R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-37-1(8).
31.
No person licensed to practice dentistry in the state of Rhode Island may permit
a non-dentist who operates a dental facility in the form of a licensed out-patient
health care center or management service organization to interfere with the
professional judgment of the dentist in the practice.
32.
Failure to follow current minimum infection control recommendations developed
by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published in the
document entitled Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings
and weekly spore testing.”
B.
Any disciplinary and/or criminal action shall be reported to the Board within twenty (20)
days of adjudication
C.
Furthermore, any violation pursuant to any provisions of the Act and these Regulations,
may be cause for denial, revocation or suspension of license or for imposing such other
penalties as prescribed in the Act.
D.
Any hearings or reviews required under statutory or regulatory provisions herein shall
be held in accordance with the provisions of the Act and of the Administrative
Procedures Act, R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-35.
2.15.2 Rules Governing Practices and Procedures
All hearings and reviews required under the provisions of the Act shall be held in
accordance with the provisions of 216-RICR-10-05-4, Practices and Procedures Before
the Rhode Island Department of Health.
2.15.3 Severability
If any provisions of this Part or the application thereof to any person or circumstance
will be held invalid such invalidity will not affect the provisions or application of this Part
which can be given effect, and to this end the provisions of this Part are declared to be
severable.
2.16 APPENDIX A
2.16.1 RHODE ISLAND BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN DENTISTRY CONTINUING
EDUCATON CRITERIA (Criteria for continuing education credits developed by
the Rhode Island Dental Association and approved by the Board)
INTRODUCTION
Dentist licensees shall obtain a total of forty (40) continuing education credits every two years.
Dental hygienist and public health dental hygienist licensees shall obtain a total of twenty (20)
continuing education credits every two years. Certified maxillofacial surgery assistant
licensees shall obtain a total of twenty (20) continuing education credits every two years.
Continuing education is reported biennially. The biennial accrual period for continuing
education is July 1st.
Definition of Continuing Education Credit (Credit will be given only for the time the course was
attended.)
One (1) continuing education credit for each hour of attendance at lectures, seminars,
institutes, meetings approved for credit by:
Accredited educational institutions.
Board recognized professional associations and societies. Accredited post-doctoral
programs.
Federal, state, local governmental health agencies and health institutions.
Accredited community and teaching hospitals. Credit will be given only for the time the course
was attended.
Two (2) continuing education credits for each hour of attendance at clinical or laboratory
participating courses approved for credit by:
Accredited educational institutions.
Board recognized professional associations and societies (Accredited post-doctoral
programs.
Federal, state, local governmental health agencies and health institutions.
Accredited community and teaching hospitals.
Responsibility of the Licensee
It is the responsibility of each licensee to maintain an authenticated record of all continuing
education activities completed, and to submit documentation as evidence of completion of the
above requirement, when requested.
CATEGORIES OF CREDIT
The following guidelines will assist the licensee in identifying acceptable courses of continuing
education activity. The licensee is free to select areas of study from within the stated
categories, keeping in mind the restriction of minimum/maximum number of hours allowed in
each category.
Educational and Scientific Courses
100% (40 hours for dentists, 20 hours for dental hygienists and 20 hours for certified
maxillofacial surgery assistants) of continuing education credits per biennial accrual period
may be obtained in this category. This category includes educational and scientific courses
sponsored by or approved by any of the following:
Accredited educational institutions.
Board recognized professional associations and societies. Accredited post-doctoral programs.
Federal, state, local governmental health agencies and health institutions.
Accredited community and teaching hospitals.
Self-instructed Courses (Successful completion of a post-test is necessary to obtain credit for
self-instructional courses. The number of continuing education credits will be determined by
sponsor.)
100% (40 hours for dentists, 20 hours for dental hygienists and 20 hours for certified
maxillofacial surgery assistants) of continuing education credits per biennial accrual period
may be obtained in this category. This category includes home study courses, correspondence
courses, educational television courses, audio, and video cassettes, and Internet (web-based)
courses sponsored by or approved by any of the following:
Accredited educational institutions.
Board recognized professional associations and societies.
Accredited post-doctoral programs.
Federal, state, local government health agencies and health institutions.
Accredited community and teaching hospitals.
Papers, Publications and Scientific Presentations
A maximum of twenty-eight (28) continuing education credits per biennial accrual period may
be obtained in this category.
Eight (8) continuing education credits for authoring an original scientific paper published in a
scientific professional journal.
Two (2) continuing education credits for each hour of a presentation (paper, essay or formal
lecture) to a recognized group of health professionals.
Teaching and Research Appointments
A maximum of twelve (12) continuing education credits per biennial accrual period may be
obtained in this category. Any dental professional involved in teaching or research activities
may receive two (2) continuing education credits for each one (1) hour of documented teaching
or research time per semester in an accredited dental or dental auxiliary educational program.
Table Clinics, Scientific and Product Exhibits
A maximum of six (6) continuing education credits per biennial accrual period may be obtained
in this category.
Two (2) continuing education credit hours for each presenter in a table clinic.
One (1) continuing education credit hour for attendance at product exhibits. Examples of
product exhibits include Yankee Dental Conference Exhibits.
Community Service
A maximum of six (6) continuing education credits per biennial accrual period may be obtained
in this category. The number of continuing education credits will be approved in advance by:
Accredited educational institutions.
Board recognized professional associations and societies. Accredited post-doctoral programs.
Federal, state, local governmental health agencies and health institutions.
Accredited community and teaching hospitals.
Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
A maximum of three (3) continuing education credits per biennial accrual period – one (1)
continuing education credit for each hour of participation – may be obtained by completion of
the CPR for Healthcare Providers course.
1.2 APPENDIX B - PROTOCOLS FOR THE PLACEMENT OF
TEMPORARY RESTORATIONS BY A PUBLIC HEALTH
DENTAL HYGIENIST