N.J. Stat. tit. 45, ch. 6

N.J. Stat. tit. 45, ch. 6
in effect

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-1 State board of dentistry; membership; appointments; terms

The State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry in the Division of Professional Boards of the Department of Law and Public Safety, hereinafter in this chapter designated as the "board," created and established by an act entitled "An act to regulate the practice of dentistry in the State of New Jersey, and to repeal certain acts now relating to the same," approved March 31, 1915 (L.1915, c. 146, p. 261), as amended and supplemented, is continued, and shall hereafter be known and designated as the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry. Wherever in any law, rule, regulation, judicial or administrative proceeding or otherwise, reference is made to the State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry, the same shall mean and refer to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry. In addition to two public members, the board shall consist of nine members, eight of whom shall have resided and practiced dentistry in this State for at least 10 years each immediately preceding their appointments and one of whom shall be a dental hygienist appointed by the Governor for a term of 4 years. In appointing such dental hygienist, the Governor shall give due consideration to, but shall not be bound by, the recommendation of the New Jersey Dental Hygienists Association. Upon the expiration of the term of office of any member, his successor shall be appointed by the Governor, subject to the provisions of section 45:1-2 of this Title, for a term of 4 years, except that the successors of the members whose terms will expire on June 4, 1949, shall be appointed each for a term expiring on August 31, 1952; the successors of the members whose terms will expire on November 9, 1949, and January 7, 1950, respectively, shall be appointed each for a term expiring on August 31, 1953; the successors of the members whose terms will expire on July 31, 1950, and October 8, 1950, respectively, shall be appointed each for a term expiring on August 31, 1954; and the successors of the members whose terms will expire on July 30, 1951, and November 4, 1951, respectively, shall be appointed each for a term expiring on August 31, 1955. Each member shall hold his office until his successor is appointed and qualifies. Any vacancy in the membership of the board, occurring from any cause, shall be filled by the Governor for the unexpired term only. Upon cause being shown before him, the Governor may remove a member from office upon proven charges of inefficiency, incompetency, immorality or professional misconduct. Amended by L.1938, c. 277, p. 599, s. 3; L.1949, c. 52, p. 339, s. 1; L.1963, c. 20, s. 1; L.1979, c. 46, s. 22, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-1a Additional board member.

10. In addition to the current membership of the board as prescribed by R.S.45:6-1, the Governor shall appoint, in the same manner as presently prescribed by law for the appointment of members, one additional member to the board who shall have resided and practiced dentistry in this State for at least 10 years immediately preceding his or her appointment . L.2007, c.259, s.10.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-1.1 Compensation for participation in examinations

In addition to traveling and other expenses incurred in the performance of his duties by a member of the State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry to which said member is entitled pursuant to the provisions of section 45:1-3 of the Revised Statutes, each such member shall be entitled to $225.00 for each of the examination parts of 2 clinical practical tests each, conducted outside the city of Trenton, in which he participates, but to no more than $1,125.00 in any 1 year, which sum shall be paid from the license fees and other sources of income of the said board. L.1959, c. 152, p. 598, s. 1. Amended by L.1960, c. 150, p. 679, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-2 Officers; meetings; quorum; rating of dental schools, etc.; reports; seal

The board shall, at its annual meeting, elect from its members a president, and an officer to be known as secretary-treasurer, which officer may or may not be a member of the board; and it shall hold at least two meetings annually for examining and licensing persons to practice dentistry, at which meetings five members shall constitute a quorum. The board shall have power to determine the good standing and repute of any dental school, college or department of a university, and may from time to time designate, in a public manner, schools, colleges or departments of universities, whose diplomas will be received by it; and it shall annually make a report of its proceedings to the governor and to the New Jersey State Dental Society. The seal heretofore adopted by it shall continue to be the common seal of the board.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-3 Rules; examinations; qualifications of applicants for examination

The board shall from time to time adopt rules for its own government and for the examination of candidates for licenses to practice dentistry. Any rule altering the nature or increasing the severity of the examination or the subjects to be included therein shall not be enforced until six months after its adoption and public promulgation. The examination of applicants shall be confined to written or oral, or both written and oral, examinations upon subjects properly relating to the science of dentistry, the knowledge of which is necessary to the proper and skillful practice of said science. The board may also require from applicants, as part of the examination, demonstration of their skill in operative and prosthetic dentistry. No person shall be examined by the board unless he is at least 18 years of age, of good moral character, and shall present to the board a certificate from the Commissioner of Education of this State, showing that before entering a dental college he had obtained an academic education consisting of a four years' course of study in an approved public or private high school or the equivalent thereof, unless he has been graduated in course with a dental degree from a dental school, college or department of a university approved by the board, or holds a diploma or license conferring full right to practice dentistry in some foreign country and granted by some authority recognized by the board. Any member of the board may inquire of any applicant for examination concerning his qualifications, and may take testimony of anyone in regard thereto, under oath, which he is hereby empowered to administer. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, no person who is a graduate of an unapproved dental school shall be examined by the board unless he has successfully completed at least two years of study of a board approved curriculum at a dental school, college or department of a university approved by the board, with a dental degree having been conferred by the school. Amended by L.1939, c. 108, p. 389, s. 1; L.1983, c. 541, s. 1, eff. Jan. 17, 1984.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-4 Application and fee

Every applicant for a license shall file his application with and pay a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) to the secretary-treasurer of the board and present himself for examination at the first regular meeting of the board after such application, due notice of which shall be given. Such fee shall not be refunded, unless from sickness or other good cause appearing to the satisfaction of the board such applicant was prevented from attending and completing such examination. Further or subsequent examinations under such application may be given to applicants, in the discretion of the board, upon payment of an additional fee of twenty dollars ($20.00). Amended by L.1949, c. 52, p. 340, s. 2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-5 Receipts and expenditures; secretary-treasurer's bond

All moneys received shall be held by the secretary-treasurer and paid out only upon resolution of the board and warrant of its president. The secretary-treasurer shall give bond in such sum and with such surety as the board may, from time to time, direct and approve. A statement of all moneys received and disbursed by the board shall be annually submitted to the governor in the annual report of the board.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-6 Issuance of licenses; reciprocal licenses; fees

The board shall register as licensed dentists, and, under its seal and the hand of its president and secretary-treasurer, shall issue to all persons who successfully pass said examination its license to practice dentistry. The board may, in its discretion, without such examination, issue its license to practice dentistry to any applicant therefor who desires to remove to this state from another state of the United States or from a foreign country, in which he was licensed to practice dentistry and has conducted the practice of dentistry for at least five years immediately preceding the application to the board for such license, if such applicant presents proof, by affidavit or otherwise, of the facts above mentioned, and presents a certificate from the board of dental examiners or from the board or official exercising similar powers of the state or county from which he desires to remove, certifying that he is a competent dentist or dental surgeon, and of good moral character, and if such certificate is presented to the board of this state not more than six months after its date of issue, and if the board or official issuing such certificate recognizes, in like manner, certificates issued by the board of this state and presented to them by licensed practitioners of dentistry of this state. The board may, in its discretion, refuse to issue licenses under this section without examination to any person not qualified under this chapter for admission to examination for license to practice dentistry. The fee for issuing any such license without examination shall be fifty dollars, which shall be paid before its issuance. The board may issue to any person known to it to be competent and of good moral character, who is licensed to practice dentistry in this state, and who desires to change his residence to another state or foreign country, a certificate over the signature of its president and secretary-treasurer, authenticated with its seal, which shall attest the facts above mentioned and give the date upon which such person was licensed to practice dentistry. The fee for issuing such certificate shall be five dollars, which shall be paid before its issuance.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-7.1 Pharmacists informed of dentist's license and medical status

2. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry shall notify each pharmacy owner in the State in writing of any dentist permitted to prescribe or administer a controlled dangerous substance in the course of professional practice whose license to practice has been suspended, revoked, or voluntarily surrendered, or who has been ordered to cease and desist from prescribing or administering certain substances. The board shall also notify the pharmacy owners when the dentist's license to practice or authority to prescribe or administer certain substances has been reinstated. Pursuant to section 4 of P.L.1991, c.304 (C.45:14-3.2), the board shall request the Board of Pharmacy of the State of New Jersey to provide the board with a list of names and addresses of the pharmacy owners in the State. L.1991,c.304,s.2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10 Annual certificate of registration; nonactive certificate; branch offices; retired dentists

Every licensed dentist shall procure from the secretary-treasurer of the board on or before November 1 each year an annual certificate of registration. Such certificate shall be issued by the secretary-treasurer upon payment of a fee of $8.00 for those in active practice within the State or $4.00 for those not practicing within the State; provided, however, that any dentist licensed after July 1 in any year shall only pay a registration fee of $2.00 for the remainder of such year. A nonactive registration certificate shall be issued to those not practicing within the State and should a nonactive registrant desire to practice during the registration year he may upon payment of an additional $4.00 to the secretary-treasurer with the return of the nonactive registration certificate for cancellation, be issued an active certificate of registration. All active certificates so issued shall be prima facie evidence of the right of the holder to practice dentistry in this State. Every licensee holding an active registration certificate who may practice at any place other than that address for which his active registration certificate is issued shall be required to obtain from the secretary-treasurer for a fee of $2.00 a branch office registration certificate for each and every location wherein he practices; provided, that nothing herein contained, shall be construed to require an active licensee to obtain a branch office certificate for the purpose of serving on the staff of a hospital or institution which receives no fees (other than entrance registration fees) for the services rendered by the dentist and that the dentist receives no fees or compensation directly or indirectly for such services rendered; and further provided, that nothing herein contained shall be construed to require an active licensee to obtain a branch office certificate for the purpose of rendering necessary dental services for their patients confined to their homes, hospitals or institutions. The secretary-treasurer of the board shall, on or before October 1 each year, mail to each licensed dentist, a printed blank form to be properly filled out and returned by such licensed person to said secretary-treasurer, together with the fee herein fixed for such annual registration. Upon receipt of such form and fee, the annual certificate of registration shall be issued and transmitted. The board shall cause a notice to be inserted in not less than 3 newspapers, 1 in the city of Trenton, 1 in the city of Camden, and 1 in the city of Newark, to the effect that such annual registration will be required. Such notice shall be printed in such papers, once a week for 3 consecutive weeks between September 1 and October 1, each year. Any person who, for at least 25 years, shall have been licensed to practice dentistry in New Jersey and who desires to retire from the practice thereof, and during his retirement to refrain from practicing dentistry, upon application to the secretary-treasurer of the board, may be registered annually, without the payment of any registration fee, as a retired dentist. The certificate of registration which shall be issued to a retired dentist shall state, among other things, that the holder has been licensed to practice dentistry in New Jersey but that during his retirement he shall not practice dentistry. The holder of a certificate of registration as a retired dentist shall be entitled to resume the practice of dentistry at any time; provided, he first shall have obtained from the secretary-treasurer an annual certificate of registration as hereinbefore provided. The license of any person who fails to procure any annual certificate of registration, or in lieu thereof an annual certificate of registration as a retired dentist, at the time and in the manner required by this section may be suspended by the board in the manner provided by sections 45:6-7 to 45:6-9 of this Title. Any license so suspended shall be reinstated at any time within 3 years from the date of such suspension upon the payment of all past due annual registration fees and an additional reinstatement fee of $25.00. Any person whose license shall have been suspended for such cause shall, during the period of such suspension, be regarded as an unlicensed person and, in case he shall continue or engage in the practice of dentistry during such period, shall be liable to the penalties prescribed by section 45:6-13 of this Title for practicing dentistry without a license. Any person to whom a certificate of registration as a retired dentist shall have been issued who shall continue or engage in the practice of dentistry without first having obtained a certificate of registration authorizing him to resume the practice of dentistry, shall be liable to the penalties prescribed by section 45:6-13 of this Title for practicing dentistry without a license. Amended by L.1939, c. 108, p. 390, s. 2; L.1942, c. 62, p. 300, s. 1; L.1951, c. 291, p. 1067, s. 1; L.1959, c. 151, p. 595, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.1 Continuing dental education required.

1. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry shall require each person licensed as a dentist, as a condition for biennial registration pursuant to R.S.45:6-10 and P.L.1972, c.108 (C.45:1-7), to complete a requisite number of credits of continuing dental education, as determined by the board pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.490 (C.45:6-10.2) during each biennial registration period. L.1991, c.490, s.1; amended 2009, c.221, s.2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.2 Standards for continuing education.

2. a. The board shall: (1) Establish standards for continuing dental education, including the subject matter and content of courses of study, and may establish any core continuing dental educational requirements pursuant to subsection c. of this section that all licensees shall complete as a condition of biennial licensure; (2) Accredit educational and other programs offering credit towards the continuing dental education requirements; and (3) Accredit other equivalent educational programs, including, but not limited to, meetings of constituents and components of dental professional associations recognized by the board, examinations, papers, publications, scientific presentations, teaching and research appointments, table clinics and scientific exhibits, and shall establish procedures for the issuance of credit upon satisfactory proof of the completion of these programs. b. In the case of education courses or programs, each hour of instruction shall be equivalent to one credit. c. The board may, in its discretion, delineate specific topics of dental education for any biennial renewal period or periods as core continuing dental education requirements that the board deems necessary to address developments in science or technology or particular issues or problems. The board shall provide notification of the specific topics and the registration periods to which those requirements apply by direct communication to licensees or through electronic media. L.1991, c.490, s.2; amended 2009, c.221, s.3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.2a Continuing education for dentists relative to opiods.

18. a. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry shall require that the number of credits of continuing dental education required of each person licensed as a dentist, as a condition of biennial registration pursuant to R.S.45:6-10 and section 1 of P.L.1972, c.108 (C.45:1-7), include one credit of educational programs or topics concerning prescription opioid drugs, including responsible prescribing practices, alternatives to opioids for managing and treating pain, and the risks and signs of opioid abuse, addiction, and diversion. The continuing dental education requirement in this subsection shall be subject to the provisions of P.L.1991, c.490 (C.45:6-10.1 et seq.), including, but not limited to, the authority of the board to waive the provisions of this section for a specific individual if the board deems it is appropriate to do so. b. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), shall adopt such rules and regulations as are necessary to effectuate the purposes of this section. L.2017, c.28, s.18.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.3 Compliance and evaluation.

3. The board may: a. Establish procedures for monitoring compliance with the continuing dental education requirements; and b. Establish procedures to evaluate and grant approval to providers of continuing dental education courses and programs. L.1991, c.490, s.3; amended 2009, c.221, s.4.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.4 Hardship waivers, waivers for certain volunteers.

4. a. The board may in its discretion, waive requirements for continuing dental education on an individual basis for reasons of hardship such as illness or disability, retirement of the license, or other good cause. b. The board may, in its discretion, waive up to one half of the biennial continuing dental education requirements for a licensee who renders volunteer dental services to eligible persons, provided that core continuing dental educational requirements, if any, shall not be waived for this purpose; and one half-hour of one continuing dental education credit hour shall be waived for each hour of volunteer dental service. L.1991, c.490, s.4; amended 2009, c.221, s.5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.5 Initial registration

5. The board shall not require completion of continuing dental education credits for initial registration. L.1991,c.490,s.5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.6 Phase-in of requirements

6. a. The board shall not require completion of continuing dental education credits for any registration periods commencing within 12 months of the effective date of this act. b. The board shall require completion of continuing dental education credits on a pro rata basis for any registration periods commencing more than 12 but less than 24 months following the effective date of this act. L.1991,c.490,s.6.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.7 Proof of credits

7. The board shall accept as proof of completion of continuing education program credits documentation submitted by a person licensed as a dentist or by any entity offering a continuing education program approved by the board pursuant to section 2 of this act. L.1991,c.490,s.7.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.8 Enforcement of requirements

8. Any person who fails to complete the continuing dental education requirements established pursuant to section 1 of this act shall be liable to a civil penalty of not more than $500 or additional hours of continuing dental education, or both, as imposed by the board, for a first offense. A second or subsequent offense by a licensee shall be considered professional misconduct pursuant to the provisions of chapter 6 of Title 45 of the Revised Statutes and P.L.1978 c.73 (C.45:1-14 et seq.). L.1991,c.490,s.8.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.9 Differential fees of dental associations

9. The board shall permit any dental association offering a continuing education program approved by the board pursuant to section 2 of this act to impose a reasonable differential in registration fees for courses upon licensed dentists who are not members of that dental association. L.1991,c.490,s.9.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-10.10 Definitions relative to continuing education for dentists.

1. For the purposes of P.L.1991, c.490 (C.45:6-10.1 et seq.) and this 2009 amendatory and supplementary act: "Core continuing dental education" means any minimum continuing education hours in specified subjects determined by the board that shall be completed to satisfy the biennial continuing education requirement applicable to dentists pursuant to P.L.1991, c.490 (C.45:6-10.1 et seq.). "Eligible person" means: (1) any person under the age of 19 whose parent or guardian attests that he meets the eligibility requirements for, and is enrolled in, the NJ FamilyCare Program established pursuant to P.L.2005, c.156 (C.30:4J-8 et seq.); (2) a child who is in the custody of the Division of Youth and Family Services in the Department of Children and Families; or (3) any person who attests that he meets the eligibility requirements for, and is enrolled in, the Medicaid program established pursuant to P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D-1 et seq.), the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled program established pursuant to P.L.1975, c.194 (C.30:4D-20 et seq.), or the Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program established pursuant to P.L.2001, c.96 (C.30:4D-43 et seq.). "Volunteer dental service" means dental care provided, without charge, to an eligible person, or to a minor in a primary school, secondary school, or other school setting, or to a patient through a dental clinic as defined by section 1 of P.L.1951, c.199 (C.45:6-15.1), in accordance with the standards, procedures, requirements, and limitations as may be established by the board. L.2009, c.221, s.1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-11 Licensees to furnish names of practitioners or assistants in office; display of certificate; inspection of offices, etc.

Every person practicing dentistry in this state shall, upon demand in writing made by the secretary-treasurer of the board, furnish, within thirty days after said demand to the secretary-treasurer, the name and address of each and every person practicing dentistry, or assisting in the practice thereof, in the office of such person. For failure so to do, he shall be liable to a penalty of twenty-five dollars, and costs. Every person practicing dentistry in this state shall at all times display his registration certificate for the current year in a conspicuous place in his main operating room where the same shall be in plain view of patients, and every person who practices dentistry within the meaning of this chapter without having such certificate on display as herein required shall be liable to a penalty of fifty dollars, besides costs. Every member and employee of the board, when identified as herein provided, shall be authorized during ordinary business hours to enter and inspect any dental office or dental laboratory for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this chapter. Each member and employee of the board shall, when inspecting any dental office or laboratory, carry and exhibit when properly requested, a card stating his name and connection with the board, verified by the signatures of the president and secretary-treasurer of the board and by its seal.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-12 Practice of dentistry by corporations prohibited; practice under firm name regulated

No corporation shall practice or continue to practice, offer or undertake to practice, or hold itself out as practicing dentistry. No person shall practice or continue to practice dentistry as an officer, agent or employee of any corporation, or under the name of any corporation. No person shall practice or continue to practice dentistry under any firm name or trade name or under any name other than his true name, but nothing herein contained shall prohibit the practice of dentistry by a partnership under a firm name containing nothing but the surname of every member of the partnership, and that nothing herein contained shall prohibit a licensed dentist from practicing under his own name or under a firm name containing only the surnames of each member of such firm. Every person or corporation, violating any of the foregoing provisions of this section shall be subject to a penalty of three hundred dollars for the first offense and six hundred dollars for the second and each subsequent offense. Every person practicing dentistry under a firm name as herein authorized and every person practicing dentistry or as an employee of another shall cause his name to be conspicuously displayed and kept in a conspicuous place at the entrance of the place where such practice shall be conducted, and any person who shall neglect to cause his name to be displayed as herein required, shall be liable to a penalty of one hundred dollars.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-13 Penalty for practicing without license

No person shall practice dentistry within the meaning of this chapter unless licensed so to do, and no person shall be deemed so licensed unless he is now licensed and registered so to do or shall hereafter be licensed and registered under the provisions of this chapter. No person shall employ, for a stated salary or otherwise, or give aid or assist any person not regularly licensed to practice dentistry to perform any dental operation upon human beings in this State. Any person who violates any of the provisions of this section or of any provision of this chapter shall be subject to a penalty of $300.00 for the first offense and of $2,000.00 for the second and each subsequent offense unless otherwise specifically provided. Amended by L.1950, c. 193, p. 434, s. 1; L.1955, c. 91, p. 269, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-14 Construction of chapter as to unlicensed persons and as to physicians

This chapter shall not be construed to prohibit an unlicensed person from performing mechanical work upon inert matter in a dental office or laboratory; nor to prohibit a duly licensed physician from treating the diseases of the mouth or performing operations in oral surgery; and nothing in this chapter shall be construed to permit the performance of dental operations by any unlicensed person under cover of the name of a registered practitioner.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.1 "Dental clinic" defined

Dental clinic, as used in this act, shall mean and include any clinic, infirmary, hospital, institution or other place of any kind whatsoever, in which science of dentistry in any of its branches is practiced, demonstrated or taught, upon or with respect to human beings but shall not include the private office of a regularly licensed dentist of this State. L.1951, c. 199, p. 728, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.2 Permit to operate dental clinic

No industrial or corporate dental clinic shall be established, operated, conducted or maintained in this State unless and until a permit to do so has first been obtained from the State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry (hereinafter referred to as the board). Application for such permit shall be in the form prescribed by the board. All such permits shall expire on December thirty-first of each year. L.1951, c. 199, p. 729, s. 2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.3 Rules and regulations; standards

The board shall adopt rules and regulations and establish standards for the establishment, operation, conduct and maintenance of industrial or corporate dental clinics. L.1951, c. 199, p. 729, s. 3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.4 Council on dental clinics; membership; vacancies; compensation

There is hereby established a council on dental clinics which shall consist of seven members, each of whom shall be chosen with due regard to his knowledge of and interest in the practice of dentistry. Three members thereof shall consist of one representative of the State Department of Institutions and Agencies; one representative of the State Department of Health and one representative of the State Department of Education, chosen and appointed by the head of each respective department. A fourth member shall be chosen and appointed by the State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry, a fifth member shall be chosen and appointed by the New Jersey State Dental Society, a sixth member shall be chosen and appointed by the New Jersey Hospital Association, and the seventh member by the New Jersey State Health Officers' Association. Each member shall be appointed for a term of one year and until his successor is appointed and qualified. Any vacancy occurring in the membership for any cause shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment but for the unexpired term only. The members of the council shall serve without compensation, but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties by the agency appointing said member. L.1951, c. 199, p. 729, s. 4.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.5 Powers and duties of council on dental clinics

The council on dental clinics shall enact and from time to time may amend rules in relation to its meetings and the transaction of its business. The council shall elect one of its members chairman who shall hold office for one year. The council shall consider matters relating to the establishment, maintenance, conduct and operation of dental clinics and may advise the board thereon. It shall submit to the board any recommendations it may deem necessary for the proper conduct and operation of dental clinics. It shall study and investigate the establishment, maintenance, conduct and operation of dental clinics, and shall recommend ways and means to promulgate these standards for the establishment, maintenance, conduct and operation of such dental clinics. The council shall also consider all matters concerning the approval, issuance, suspension or revocation of permits for dental clinics and shall submit its recommendations thereon to the board. The council shall consider such other matters as may be pertinent to the conduct of dental clinics in this State and may report thereon to the board. L.1951, c. 199, p. 729, s. 5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.6 Issuance of permits; prerequisites

No permit shall be issued by the board unless the dental clinic complies with the rules, regulations, standards and requirements adopted by the board and in force at the time such application is made. L.1951, c. 199, p. 730, s. 6.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.7 Licensed persons to perform dental operations

In every dental clinic operated, conducted or maintained in this State all dental operations shall be performed by a licensed dentist or licensed hygienist in accordance with the provisions of Title 45, chapter six of the Revised Statutes. L.1951, c. 199, p. 730, s. 7.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.8 Inspection of dental clinics

Every member of the council and every member and employee of the board is empowered and authorized to enter and inspect any place where a dental clinic is established, operated, conducted or maintained. Every such member and employee shall, when inspecting any such place or dental clinic, carry and exhibit when properly requested, a card stating his name and connection with the council or board, verified by the signature of the president and secretary-treasurer of the board and by its seal. L.1951, c. 199, p. 730, s. 8.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-15.12 Separate violations

Each day that any dental clinic shall be operated, conducted or maintained in violation of any provision of this act or of any rule or regulation of the board made pursuant thereto shall be deemed to be a separate violation for which a penalty may be recovered. L.1951, c. 199, p. 732, s. 12.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16 "College" , "school" and "university" defined; authority to teach science of dentistry

The words "college," "school" or "university," when used in connection with a place where the science of dentistry in any of its branches may be practiced, demonstrated or taught, mean any educational institution authorized by the Legislature of this State to teach the science of medicine or dentistry and approved by the State Board of Education and by the State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry. Any educational institution, including a college, school, university, institute or department of a university, incorporated or organized and operating under Title 15 of the Revised Statutes or under any other law of this State, which has been or shall be approved by the State Board of Education and by the State Board of Registration and Examination in Dentistry to teach the science of dentistry in any of its branches, shall be deemed to be authorized by the Legislature of this State to teach the science of dentistry in any of its branches and to have complied with the requirements of this section in respect to authorization by the Legislature of this State. Any such educational institution so authorized to teach the science of dentistry in any of its branches may use the words "college" or "school" in connection with its place where the science of dentistry in any of its branches may be taught, practiced or demonstrated. Amended by L.1955, c. 41, p. 155, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16.1 Limited teaching certificates; issuance; authorized activities.

1. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry (hereinafter referred to as the board) may issue to qualified applicants limited teaching certificates authorizing the certificate holder to teach, demonstrate, and practice dentistry in all its branches, but only in and upon the premises of the dental school or its clinical facilities designated in the certificate in which the science of dentistry in any of its branches is taught, except that the holder of a limited teaching certificate may teach, demonstrate and practice dentistry at meetings of the American Dental Association or any of its component parts, or any other similar dental organizations, while appearing as clinicians. L.1964,c.168,s.1; amended 2007, c.235, s.1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16.2 Application forms, determining competency of applicant.

2. a. The board shall prescribe the forms for any such application, and shall determine the competency of the applicant to teach the science of dentistry as predicated upon the applicant's general and technical knowledge. In all cases the applicant shall submit proof satisfactory to the board of his graduation with a dental degree from a dental school and of his subsequent employment and professional experience. The dean of a dental school in which the applicant seeks employment shall: certify to the board that the applicant is properly qualified to teach, demonstrate and practice dentistry at the dental school; and furnish to the board supporting information from which the board can determine that the applicant's general and technical level of knowledge and moral character suitably qualifies the applicant to teach, demonstrate and practice dentistry at a dental school in this State. b. No dental school in this State shall employ, at any one time, more than 15 persons with limited teaching certificates who have graduated from dental schools not approved by the board. For the purposes of this section, if the dental school from which the applicant graduated is located in the United States, Canada, or a territory or possession of the United States, the dental school shall be approved by the board. c. No such limited teaching certificate shall be deemed to authorize the certificate holder to engage in the private practice of dentistry outside of the premises of the dental school or its clinical facilities. A limited teaching certificate shall automatically expire upon the termination of the certificate holder's employment by a dental school in this State. L.1964,c.168,s.2; amended 2007, c.235, s.2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16.3 Limited teaching certificate fees; renewal.

3. Every applicant for a limited teaching certificate shall pay to the board for the use of the State an initial application fee and an annual renewal fee to be determined by board regulation. L.1964,c.168,s.3; amended 2007, c.235, s.3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16.4 Teaching without license or limited teaching certificate, prohibited; penalty.

4. No person shall teach the science of dentistry in any of its branches in this State unless he shall hold a regularly issued license to practice dentistry in this State or a limited teaching certificate, and any violation of this provision shall be deemed to be an illegal practice of dentistry punishable as provided in R.S.45:6-1 et seq. L.1964,c.168,s.4; amended 2007, c.235, s.4.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16.5 Roster of teachers; submission by educational institutions

Every educational institution where the science of dentistry is practiced, demonstrated, or taught in any of its branches shall submit to the board from time to time a roster of all persons engaged in teaching any of the clinical subjects or who act as demonstrators or teachers in the laboratories or clinics where the practice of dentistry of any kind is performed on patients. The board shall prescribe a form for such roster and make rules governing their submission. L.1964, c. 186, s. 5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-16.6 Guest lecturers or clinicians

Nothing contained in this act shall be deemed to preclude a giving of lectures or the making of demonstrations in connection with the teaching of the science of dentistry by guest lecturers and guest clinicians who are licensed to practice dentistry outside of this State, and who are invited to so demonstrate or teach a specific technique or procedure. L.1964, c. 186, s. 6.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-17 "Institute" defined

The word "institute" when used in connection with any place where the science of dentistry in any of its branches may be practiced, demonstrated or taught, means any institution authorized by the legislature to engage in medical or dental research.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-18 Illegal use of terms; penalty

No person, corporation, firm, company, association or partnership shall use the word "clinic" , "infirmary" , "hospital" , "school" , "college" , "university" or "institute" , in English or any other language in connection with any place where dentistry in any of its branches may be practiced, demonstrated or taught, except as defined in sections 45:6-15 to 45:6-17 of this title and upon conviction thereof, shall pay a penalty of five hundred dollars to be sued for and recovered by and in the name of the state board of registration and examination in dentistry under the provisions of this chapter.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-18.1 Extra fee for completion of dental claim form; penalty

1. No dentist and no professional service corporation engaged in the practice of dentistry in this State shall charge a patient an extra fee for services rendered in completing a dental claim form in connection with a health insurance policy. Any person violating this act shall be subject to a fine of $100.00 for each offense. Such penalty shall be collected and enforced by summary proceedings pursuant to "the penalty enforcement law" (N.J.S.2A:58-1 et seq.). The Superior Court and municipal court shall have jurisdiction within its territory of such proceedings. Process shall be either in the nature of a summons or warrant and shall issue in the name of the State, upon the complaint of the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, as plaintiff. L.1975,c.299,s.1; amended 1991,c.91,s.451.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-18.2 Radiographs; use

Radiographs may be used in the course of dental services only for diagnostic or treatment purposes. L.1982, c. 99, s. 1, eff. July 28, 1982.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-18.3 Violations

Violations of this act shall be prosecuted in the manner provided in P.L.1978, c. 73, s. 12 (C. 45:1-25). L.1982, c. 99, s. 2, eff. July 28, 1982.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19 "Practicing dentistry" defined

Any person shall be regarded as practicing dentistry within the meaning of this chapter who (1) Uses a dental degree, or the terms "mechanical dentist" or the use of the word "dentist" in English or any foreign language, or designation, or card, device, directory, poster, sign, or other media whereby he represents himself as being able to diagnose, treat, prescribe or operate for any disease, pain, deformity, deficiency, injury, or physical condition of the human tooth, teeth, alveolar process, gums, cheek, or jaws, or oral cavity and associated tissues; or (2) Is a manager, proprietor, operator, or conductor of a place where dental operations are performed; or (3) Performs dental operations of any kind gratuitously, or for a fee, gift, compensation or reward, paid or to be paid, either to himself or to another person or agency; or (4) Uses himself or by any employee, uses a Roentgen or X-ray machine for dental treatment, dental radiograms, or for dental diagnostic purposes; or (5) Extracts a human tooth or teeth, or corrects or attempts to correct malpositions of the human teeth or jaws; or (6) Offers and undertakes, by any means or method, to diagnose, treat or remove stains or concretions from human teeth or jaws; or (7) Uses or administers local or general anesthetics in the treatment of dental or oral diseases or in any preparation incident to a dental operation of any kind or character; or (8) Takes impressions of the human tooth, teeth, jaws, or performs any phase of any operation incident to the replacement of a part of a tooth, teeth, or associated tissues; or (9) Performs any clinical operation included in the curricula of recognized dental schools or colleges. The terms manager, proprietor, operator or conductor as used in this chapter shall be deemed to include any person who (1) Employs operators or assistants; or (2) Places in the possession of any operator, assistant, or other agent such dental material or equipment as may be necessary for the management of a dental office on the basis of a lease or any other agreement for compensation for the use of such material, equipment or office; or (3) Retains the ownership or control of dental material, equipment or office and makes the same available in any manner for the use by operators, assistants or other agents; provided, however, that the above shall not apply to bona fide sales of dental material or equipment secured by chattel mortgage. The following practices, acts and operations shall not be regarded as practicing dentistry within the meaning of this chapter: (1) The treatment of the diseases of the mouth and practice of oral surgery, in the practice of his profession, by a physician or surgeon, licensed as such under the laws of this State, unless he undertakes to reproduce or reproduces lost parts of the human teeth in the mouth or to restore or replace lost or missing teeth in the mouth; or (2) The practice of dentistry in the discharge of their duties by dentists in the United States Army, Navy, Public Health Service or Veterans Bureau; or (3) The operation of a dental school or college as now conducted and approved, or as may be approved, by the Board of Dental Examiners; and the practice of dentistry by students in any such dental school or college approved by the board, when acting under the direction and supervision of any registered and licensed dentist acting as instructor; or (4) The practice of dentistry by licensed dentists of other States or countries at meetings of the American Dental Association or component parts thereof, or any other like dental organizations, while appearing as clinicians; or (5) The practice of dentistry by accredited internes operating in hospitals under the supervision of registered and licensed dentists; or (6) The use of Roentgen or other rays for making radiograms or similar records of dental or oral tissues under the supervision of a licensed dentist or physician; provided, however, that such services shall not be advertised, by any name whatsoever, as an aid or inducement to secure dental patronage; and provided, further, that no corporation shall advertise that it has, leases, owns or operates a Roentgen or X-ray machine for the purpose of making dental radiograms of the human teeth or tissues of the oral cavity, or administering treatment thereto for any disease thereof; or (7) The making of artificial restorations, substitutes, or appliances for the correction of disease, loss, deformity, malposition, dislocation, fracture, or injury to the jaws, teeth, lips, gums, cheeks, palate, or cases, models, or from impressions furnished by a licensed and registered dentist, on written prescription only; provided, that such prosthetic or orthodontic appliances, or the services rendered in the construction, repair, or alteration thereof, shall not be advertised, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, to the public by the dental technician or dental laboratory as principal or agent. Amended by L.1941, c. 316, p. 853, s. 2; L.1942, c. 38, p. 243, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.1 Definitions

For purposes of this act: a. "Prothesis" means an artificial substitute for a missing body part, such as a tooth, used for functional or cosmetic reasons or both. b. "Rebasing" means the act of replacing the base material of a denture without changing the occlusal relations of the teeth. L.1983, c. 514, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.2 Upper and lower dentures and removable dental prostheses; markings

Every complete upper and lower denture and removable dental prosthesis fabricated by a dentist licensed by this State shall be marked with the name and social security number of the patient for whom the prosthesis is intended unless the patient objects thereto. The markings shall be done during fabrication and shall be permanent, legible and cosmetically acceptable. The exact location of the markings and the methods used to apply or implant them shall be determined by the dentist or dental laboratory fabricating the prosthesis on behalf of the dentist. If in the professional judgment of the dentist or dental laboratory this identification is not practicable, identification shall be provided as follows: a. The social security number of the patient may be omitted if the name of the patient is shown; b. The initials of the patient may be shown alone, if the use of the name of the patient is impracticable; c. The identification marks may be omitted in their entirety if none of the forms of identification specified in subsections a. and b. of this section are practicable or clinically safe. L.1983, c. 514, s. 2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.3 Removable dental prosthesis; marking at time of rebasing

Any removable dental prosthesis in existence prior to the effective date of this act, which was not marked at the time of its fabrication in accordance with section 2. of this act, shall be so marked at the time of any subsequent rebasing. L.1983, c. 514, s. 3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.4 Rules and regulations

The board shall adopt rules and regulations and provide standards to carry out the provisions of this act. L.1983, c. 514, s. 4.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.5 Hospital privileges for dentists

A licensed dentist whose credentials have been approved and who has been granted privileges by the medical staff of a public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution in this State and who has been approved by the governing board of the hospital or institution may: a. Diagnose and treat patients admitted for acute or chronic illness, injury or deformity within the province of the human jaw and associated structures and complete and authenticate medical records of patients admitted or treated for dental or oral and maxillofacial surgical problems; and b. Prescribe medication and treatment for patients admitted for dental or oral and maxillofacial surgical problems. A dentist, other than a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who performs one or more of the procedures set forth in this section shall arrange for appropriate medical consultation to be provided by a qualified physician member of the medical staff of the hospital or institution for a patient of the dentist. L. 1988, c. 147, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.6 Additional authorized procedures

In addition to the procedures authorized pursuant to section 1 of this act, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may perform a history and physical examination on a patient admitted to a hospital for a dental or oral and maxillofacial surgical procedure, if the surgeon has successfully completed a postgraduate program in oral surgery accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting body approved by the United States Department of Education. Whenever a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon admits a patient with a medical problem, he shall seek the consultative services of a qualified physician member of the medical staff. Each patient's general medical condition is the responsibility of a qualified physician member of the medical staff. L. 1988, c. 147, s. 2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-19.7 Influenza vaccines administered by approved dentist; certification; report to New Jersey Immunization Information System.

1. a. If a dentist is approved by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry to administer human papillomavirus or influenza vaccines and related emergency medications and if the dentist is in compliance with rules promulgated by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry and the State Board of Medical Examiners, the dentist may administer an influenza vaccine or a human papillomavirus vaccine to a patient who is 18 years of age or older. b. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry may certify a dentist to administer immunizations to patients who are 18 years of age or older during a public health emergency declared pursuant to the "Emergency Health Powers Act," P.L.2005, c.222 (C.26:13-1 et seq.) which are intended to prevent or reduce the transmission of the disease that is the basis for the declared public health emergency, regardless of whether the board has adopted rules and regulations implementing the provisions of this act. c. An immunization administered to a patient by a dentist shall be reported by the dentist to the New Jersey Immunization Information System established pursuant to section 4 of P.L.2004, c.138 (C.26:4-134) as required pursuant to N.J.A.C.8:57-3.16, for inclusion in the patient's registry. L.2021, c.303.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-20 Practice of dentistry as interne in public or private hospitals and institutions

Any person may practice dentistry as an interne or resident in a public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution of this State for a period of one year; providing, such person shall furnish proof to the board he can fulfill the requirements demanded in the other sections of this chapter relating to applicants for license to practice dentistry; but no such person shall be permitted to so engage in the practice of dentistry unless and until he obtains a certificate in writing from the board, which certificate shall be at all times publicly exhibited in the public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution to which such person is attached as an interne or resident. The board may, in its discretion, renew such certificate from year to year but not to exceed any aggregate of three years. The board shall charge and collect a fee of ten dollars ($10.00) for each such certificate or renewal thereof granted. Any public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution of this State, in order to avail itself of the provisions of this section and sections 45:6-21 and 45:6-22 of this Title, shall first obtain a certificate in writing from the board. Amended by L.1951, c. 341, p. 1229, s. 1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-21 Dental internes not to receive fees or compensation; exception; nature of services; inspection of institution

No dental interne or resident certified under section 45:6-20 of this Title to any public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution shall receive, collect or be entitled to, either directly or indirectly, any fees or compensation for any services rendered, while acting as such interne or resident; but nothing herein contained shall be construed to prevent or prohibit the public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution to which any interne or resident is attached from providing compensation out of its funds for services so rendered by such interne or resident. The services rendered by any such interne or resident shall be strictly confined to the inmates and registered patients of the public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution to which he is attached, and shall be performed under the supervision of a regularly licensed dentist of this State, who shall be a member of the staff of such hospital or institution. Every public or private licensed hospital or other public or private institution to which any such interne or resident is attached shall be subject to inspection by the board, or by its duly accredited inspectors or representatives. Amended by L.1951, c. 341, p. 1230, s. 2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-23 Unlawful sale, alteration, use of dental degree, certificate, transcript; misdemeanor

45:6-23. Any person, company or association shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon every conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars, or by imprisonment for not less than six months, or both, who: a. Sells or barters, or offers to sell or barter, any diploma or document conferring or purporting to confer any dental degree or any certificate or transcript made or purporting to be made pursuant to the laws regulating the licensing and registration of dentists; or b. Purchases or procures by barter any such diploma, certificate or transcript with intent that the same shall be used as evidence of the holder's qualification to practice dentistry, or in fraud of the laws regulating such practice; or c. With fraudulent intent, alters in a material regard any such diploma, certificate or transcript; or d. Uses or attempts to use any such diploma, certificate or transcript which has been purchased, fraudulently issued, counterfeited or materially altered, either as a license or color of license to practice dentistry, or in order to procure registration as a dentist. Amended L.1995,c.124,s.2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-24 False statements; high misdemeanor

Any person who, in any affidavit or examination required of an applicant for examination, license or registration under the laws regulating the practice of dentistry, willfully makes a false statement in a material regard, shall be guilty of a high misdemeanor, punishable upon conviction thereof by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars, or by imprisonment at hard labor not exceeding five years, or both, in the discretion of the court.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-26 Commitment for failure to pay judgment

The court shall, if judgment be rendered for the plaintiff, cause any defendant who refuses or fails to pay forthwith the amount of the judgment rendered against him and all the costs and charges incident thereto, to be committed to the county jail for a period of not less than thirty days nor more than ninety days, except in cases where the penalty is five hundred dollars ($500.00), in which cases commitment shall be made for a period of not less than sixty days nor more than one hundred fifty days. Amended by L.1953, c. 43, p. 799, s. 21.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-48 Short title

This act shall be known and may be cited as "The Dental Auxiliaries Act." L.1979, c. 46, s. 1, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-49 Definitions.

2. For the purposes of this act: a. "Board" means the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry. b. "Registered dental assistant" means any person who has fulfilled the requirements for registration established by this act and who has been registered by the board. A registered dental assistant shall work under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. c. "Dental assistant" means any person who is trained by formal education or office internship to perform, under the direct supervision of a dentist, any routine office procedure, not including an intra-oral procedure, in the office of a dentist. d. "Dental hygienist" means any person who performs in the office of any licensed dentist or in any appropriately equipped school, dental clinic, or institution under the supervision of a licensed dentist, those educational, preventive and therapeutic services and procedures which licensed dental hygienists are trained to perform, and which are specifically permitted by regulation of the board, and such intra-oral clinical services which are primarily concerned with preventive dental procedures, including, but not limited to, during the course of a complete prophylaxis, removing all hard and soft deposits and stains from the surfaces of the human teeth to the depth of the gingival sulcus, polishing natural and restored surfaces of teeth, applying indicated topical agents, surveying intra- and extra-oral structures, noting deformities, defects and abnormalities thereof, performing a complete oral prophylaxis and providing clinical instruction to promote the maintenance of dental health. e. "Direct supervision" means acts performed in the office of a licensed dentist wherein he is physically present at all times during the performance of such acts and such acts are performed pursuant to his order, control and full professional responsibility. f. "Supervision" means acts performed pursuant to a dentist's written order, control and full professional responsibility, whether or not he is physically present. g. "Limited registered dental assistant" means any person who has fulfilled the requirements for registration established by this amendatory and supplementary act and who has been registered by the board. A limited registered dental assistant shall be limited to working under the direct supervision of a dentist who conducts a limited dental practice in the dental specialty for which the assistant has been trained and registered, and in performing those intra-oral procedures as defined by the board which are involved in that specialty. h. "Dental clinic" means dental clinic as defined in section 1 of P.L.1951, c.199 (C.45:6-15.1). i. "Institution" means any nursing home, veterans' home, hospital or prison, or any State or county facility providing inpatient care, supervision and treatment for persons with developmental disabilities. L.1979, c.46, s.2; amended 1995, c.367, s.1; 2012, c.29, s.1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-50 Additional powers, duties of board

3. The board shall have the following additional powers and duties, under this act: a. To examine, admit, and deny persons applying for admission to the practice of dental hygiene; b. To issue licenses to practice dental hygiene; c. To certify academic and clinical institutions and hospitals which educate and train persons for the practice of dental hygiene or dental assisting in accordance with standards substantially similar to those of the American Dental Association's Commission on Accreditation of Dental and Dental Auxiliary Educational Programs and Council on Hospital Dental Service and taking into consideration the advice of the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education and the New Jersey Department of Education; d. To issue certificates of good standing to dental hygienists who hold a valid subsisting license to practice in this State; e. To establish by rule or regulation, standards for the training and utilization of registered dental assistants and limited registered dental assistants; f. To establish and recognize councils and committees which may advise and make recommendations to the board on various aspects of the education and practice for dental hygienists, registered dental assistants, limited registered dental assistants or dental assistants; g. To prescribe expanded functions to be performed solely by dental hygienists and to be performed by dental hygienists, registered dental assistants and limited registered dental assistants under a single standard of proficiency necessary and proper to protect and promote the public health and welfare of the citizens of this State, and impose such restrictions and requirements, including the setting of educational prerequisites to the performance of such functions and the administration of examinations, as are necessary to insure adherence to the adopted standard of proficiency. Expansion and assignment of such functions, training and examination procedures shall be developed in consultation with the relevant advisory councils; h. To adopt rules and regulations to achieve the objectives contemplated by this act, pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act, P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.); i. To do any and all other things which may be appropriate to achieve the objectives contemplated by this act, or which may be useful in executing any of the duties, powers or functions of the board. L.1979,c.46,s.3; amended 1995,c.367,s.2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-50.1 Required training for dental assistant internship programs

10. The board shall establish by rule or regulation the required training which shall be included in dental assistant internship programs. An internship program for an individual seeking registration as a dental assistant shall include training in the intra-oral procedures that are performed in the office of a dentist licensed for general practice. The board shall establish a committee consisting of two board members and three licensed dentists which shall develop and monitor a satisfactory internship program for individuals seeking registration as a dental assistant. L.1995,c.367,s.10.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-50.2 Required training for limited dental assistant internship program

11. Upon the request of a recognized professional dental specialty society, the board shall establish by rule or regulation the required training which shall be included in a limited dental assistant internship program. An internship program for an individual seeking registration as a limited dental assistant shall include training in those intra-oral procedures that are performed in the office of a dentist who has received from the board a permit of limited dental practice in the specialty area for which the assistant seeks registration. The board shall establish a committee consisting of two board members and three licensed dentists which shall develop and monitor a satisfactory internship program for individuals seeking registration as a limited dental assistant. L.1995,c.367,s.11.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-51 Meetings

The board shall hold at least two meetings annually at which they will examine and license persons to practice dental hygiene. L.1979, c. 46, s. 4, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-52 Dental hygiene; examination of candidates for licenses to practice

a. The board shall adopt rules for the examination of candidates for licenses to practice dental hygiene. Every applicant shall present to the secretary of the board a written application for admission to the examination on a form provided by the board. No person shall be examined by the board unless he has satisfactorily completed such course on dental hygiene as may be required by the board. Any rule altering the nature or increasing the severity of the examination or subjects to be included therein shall not be enforced until 6 months after its public promulgation and adoption. The examination of applicants shall be confined to written or oral, or both written and oral, examination upon subjects properly relating to the science of dental hygiene, the knowledge of which is necessary to the proper and skillful practice of said science. The board shall also require from applicants, as part of the examination, demonstration of their clinical skill in dental hygiene. b. The fee for the examination for license to practice dental hygiene shall be determined by the board from time to time and shall accompany every application. Such fee shall not be refunded, unless for sickness or other good cause appearing to the satisfaction of the board such applicant was prevented from attending and completing such examination. Upon the approval of the application for examination, such applicant shall thereupon be entitled to admission to such examination. If said applicant fails to pass the examination, he may be re-examined at the next regular examination. L.1979, c. 46, s. 5, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-53 Registration and issuance of licenses

All persons who pass the required examination shall be registered by the board as licensed dental hygienists, and shall be issued licenses to practice dental hygiene under the seal and hand of the president and secretary of the board. L.1979, c. 46, s. 6, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-54 Waiver of examination

The board may waive the requirements for examination of a candidate for a license to practice dental hygiene when the board reasonably determines that it is in the public interest. L.1979, c. 46, s. 7, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-55 Rules, procedure for registration

8. a. The board shall adopt rules and procedure for the registration of dental assistants and limited dental assistants. Every applicant for registration shall satisfactorily complete an examination approved by the board and a nationally recognized accrediting agency, which examination shall require the applicant to demonstrate that the applicant is capable of performing the functions of a registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant, as the case may be, and shall be administered within the State at least once each year at such time and place as the board designates, and (1) Have satisfactorily completed and graduated from a training program for dental assistants accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Accreditation of Dental and Dental Auxiliary Educational Programs and approved by the board, or (2) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent and at least two years' work experience as a dental assistant. b. For three years from the date the first internship program is implemented pursuant to the provisions of section 10 or 11 of P.L.1995, c.367 (C.45:6-50.1 or C.45:6-50.2), a dental assistant or limited dental assistant may satisfy the work experience requirement of paragraph (2) of subsection a. of this section by completing at least six months' work experience as a dental assistant and have successfully completed a board approved internship in the office and under the direct supervision of a licensed New Jersey dentist. The internship for a registered dental assistant shall consist of three months' training in the office of a dental practitioner under a licensed dentist's direct supervision and the internship for a limited registered dental assistant shall consist of three months' training in the office of a dentist under a licensed dentist's direct supervision who has received a permit of limited dental practice in a specialty area from the board. c. The board by rule or regulation shall specify those intra-oral procedures which may be performed by registered dental assistants and limited registered dental assistants, provided that such procedures shall not include those procedures which are traditionally performed by dental hygienists. L.1979,c.46,s.8; amended 1995,c.367,s.3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-56 Requirement of continuing education.

9. a. (1) Every two years, at the time of license renewal, each person licensed to practice dental hygiene in this State shall provide the board with a certified statement, upon a form issued and distributed by the board, that such licensed person has attended, or participated in not less than 20 hours of continuing education in dental hygiene as follows: lectures or study club sessions dealing with clinical subjects, college post-graduate courses, scientific sessions of conventions, research on clinical subjects, service as a clinician or any other such evidence of continuing education which the board may approve. (2) Every two years, at the time of registration renewal, each person registered as a registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant in this State shall provide the board with a certified statement, upon a form issued and distributed by the board, that such registered person has attended, or participated in not less than 10 hours of continuing education in dental assisting as follows: lectures or study club sessions dealing with clinical subjects, college post-graduate courses, scientific sessions of conventions, research on clinical subjects, service as a clinician or any other such evidence of continuing education which the board may approve. b. The board shall notify each licensed or registered person of any failure to comply with this requirement, and shall further notify said person that upon continued failure to comply for a period of three months from the date of notice, the board may, at its discretion take action pursuant to section 11 of this act. c. The board, in its discretion, may waive any of the requirements of this section in cases of certified illness or undue hardship to be determined on an individual basis. L.1979,c.46,s.9; amended 1995, c.367, s.4; 2005, c.5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-57 Biennial certificate of registration

Every person licensed to practice dental hygiene shall biennially apply, on a form furnished by the board, for a certificate of registration, which shall be issued by the secretary of the board upon payment of a fee of $10.00. The certificate of registration shall be displayed in the office or place in which the holder thereof practices dental hygiene. Where a dental hygienist practices dental hygiene at more than one office or place, a duplicate registration certificate shall be issued upon the payment of an additional fee of $5.00 for each such certificate. The license of any person who fails to procure any biennial certificate of registration, at the time and in the manner required by the board, except a person on the inactive status list, may be suspended by the board in the manner provided by section 12 of P.L. 1979, c. 46 (C. 45:6-59). Any license so suspended shall be reinstated at any time within three years from the date of such suspension upon the payment of all past due biennial registration fees and an additional reinstatement fee of $25.00. Any person whose license shall have been suspended for such cause shall, during the period of such suspension, be regarded as an unlicensed person and, in case such person shall continue or engage in the practice of dental hygiene during such period, shall be liable to the penalties prescribed by section 11 of P.L. 1979, c. 46 (C. 45:6-58) for practicing dental hygiene without a license. Said fees shall be used by the board in the same manner as similar fees received by it under the provisions of chapter 6 of Title 45 of the Revised Statutes. P.L. 1979, c. 46, s. 10; amended 1988,c.31,s.1.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-57.1 Inactive status list

A licensed dental hygienist may apply to the board for inactive license status on a form furnished by the board. Upon receipt of the completed inactive status application form the board shall place the licensee on an inactive status list. While on the list, the person shall pay an inactive license renewal fee in an amount prescribed by the board and shall not practice dental hygiene within the State. A person on the inactive status list who wants to resume the practice of dental hygiene shall apply to the board for a current biennial certificate of registration and shall pay the prescribed registration fee. Any person who has been on the inactive status list for five or more years shall furnish the board with satisfactory evidence of current knowledge and skill in the practice of dental hygiene as required by regulation of the board. P.L. 1988, c. 31, s. 3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-58 Penalties

11. Any person practicing dental hygiene in this State without first having obtained a license as provided by this act, or without the current biennial certificate of registration, or contrary to any of the provisions of this act, or any person who fails to comply with the provisions of section 9 of P.L.1979, c.46 (C.45:6-56), except a person on the inactive status list, or who practices dental hygiene or works as a registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant under a false or assumed name, or buys, sells or fraudulently obtains a diploma or certificate showing or purporting to show graduation or completion of a course in dental hygiene or dental assisting, or who violates any of the provisions of this act, shall be liable to a penalty of $300.00 for the first offense and of $500.00 for the second and each subsequent offense. L.1979,c.46,s.11; amended 1988,c.31,s.2; 1995,c.367,s.5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-60 Disorderly persons offense; fines

13. Any person, company or association who commits any of the following acts is a disorderly person, and upon every conviction thereof shall be subject to a fine of not less than $300.00 nor more than $500.00 or by imprisonment for not less than 30 days nor more than 90 days, or by both such fine and imprisonment: a. Selling or bartering, or offering to sell or barter, any diploma or document showing or purporting to show graduation as a dental hygienist or dental assistant; b. Purchasing or procuring by barter any such diploma, certificate or transcript with intent that it be used as evidence of the qualifications of the holder to practice dental hygiene or work as a registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant, or in fraud of the laws regulating such practice or work; c. With fraudulent intent, altering in a material regard, such diploma, certificate or transcript; d. Using or attempting to use such diploma, certificate or transcript which has been purchased, fraudulently issued, and counterfeited or materially altered, either as a license or registration or color of license or registration to practice dental hygiene or work as a registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant, or in order to procure registration as a dental hygienist; or e. In any affidavit or examination required of an applicant for examination, license or registration under the laws regulating the practice of dental hygiene or dental assisting, willfully making a false statement in a material regard, or impersonating another applicant at an examination. L.1979,c.46,s.13; amended 1995,c.367,s.7.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-61 Penalty for violations by dentist

14. Any licensed dentist who shall permit any unlicensed or unregistered person to practice dental hygiene or work as a registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant under his direction or control or shall permit or direct a licensed dental hygienist, registered dental assistant or limited registered dental assistant to perform any act not authorized in this act shall be guilty of a violation of this act and of conduct constituting willful and gross malpractice or willful and gross neglect in the practice of dentistry. L.1979,c.46,s.14; amended 1995,c.367,s.8.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-62 Practice of dental hygiene.

15. a. Any person who has graduated from a school or college of dental hygiene approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association and has been licensed to practice dental hygiene in this State and holds a current certification in Basic or Advanced Cardiac Life Support by an association approved by the board may, subject to the supervision of a New Jersey licensed dentist, practice dental hygiene in an office in which general dentistry or any special area of dentistry recognized by the board is regularly practiced, or in any appropriately equipped school, dental clinic, or institution, except that a New Jersey licensed dentist may, in his sole discretion, require direct supervision in his dental office. b. A dental hygienist acting under supervision in a dental office or dental clinic may treat only patients who are existing patients of record. c. Each licensed dentist may provide supervision to no more than three licensed dental hygienists at one time. d. A dental hygienist may practice dental hygiene under direct supervision or supervision only in a facility having readily available emergency equipment as may be designated by the board, by regulation. L.1979, c.46, s.15; amended 2012, c.29, s.2.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-64 Establishment of independent office, practice, of dental hygienist; prohibition.

17. Nothing in this act shall be construed as permitting a licensed dental hygienist to establish an independent office or engage in independent practice in connection with the performance of traditional hygienist services whether or not there is supervision or direct supervision of a licensed dentist. L.1979, c.46, s.17; amended 2012, c.29, s.3.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-65 Continuance of proceedings dependent on law prior to effective date of law

All proceedings pending and undisposed of, and any new proceedings based upon any event or transaction occurring before the effective date of this act, shall be continued, or may be initiated and processed to completion and shall be governed, to the extent that it is fair and feasible to do so, in accordance with the law in force at the time of the occurrence of the event or transaction involved, notwithstanding the repeal by this act of any statute now in force. L.1979, c. 46, s. 18, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-66 Rules and regulations; continuation

All rules and regulations heretofore adopted by the board shall continue to be effective on an interim basis as though hereafter adopted as rules and regulations of the board to the extent they are not inconsistent with the provisions of this act. L.1979, c. 46, s. 19, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-67 Rules and regulations on practice of dental hygienists and registered dental assistants; expiration of s. 45:6-63

Section 16 of this act shall remain in force and effect for a period not to exceed 2 years after the effective date of this act. Within 1 year after the effective date of this act, the board shall propose rules and regulations governing the practice of dental hygiene, establish a program for registration of registered dental assistants, and establish the tasks which a duly licensed dentist may assign to a registered dental assistant. Such rules and regulations shall take effect 2 years after the enactment of this act. L.1979, c. 46, s. 20, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-68 Severability

If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section or part of this act shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such judgment shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence or part thereof directly involved in the controversy in which such judgment shall have been rendered. L.1979, c. 46, s. 21, eff. March 21, 1979.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-69 Compliance with law on radiologic technology

23. Nothing herein shall be construed to exempt registered dental assistants, limited registered dental assistants, dental assistants or other dental office personnel from compliance with P.L.1981, c.295 (C.26:2D-24 et seq.). L.1979,c.46,s.23; amended 1995,c.367,s.9.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-69.1 Direct supervision required for certain procedures.

4. The administration of local anesthesia, the monitoring of a patient administered nitrous oxide, and any other anesthetic procedures that may be designated by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, by regulation, shall be performed by a licensed dental hygienist only under direct supervision. L.2012, c.29, s.4.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-69.2 Restrictions relative to dental hygienists.

5. A licensed dental hygienist shall not perform any intra-oral service, other than administering preventive measures such as the application of fluorides, pit and fissure sealants as well as other recognized topical agents for the prevention of oral disease or associated discomfort and the detection of caries in a school setting, upon any living person who the dental hygienist reasonably believes has not received an examination by a duly licensed dentist within the immediately preceding 365-day period. After performing an assessment, a dental hygienist acting under supervision who reasonably believes that a person has either dental caries or some other medical or dental condition requiring diagnosis or treatment by a dentist shall so inform in writing, within seven days, the dentist who is providing the supervision, except if it appears that emergent care is indicated, the dental hygienist shall immediately notify the supervising dentist. L.2012, c.29, s.5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-70 Issuance of limited registration certificate.

4. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry shall issue to a dentist in good standing holding an active license to practice dentistry in any other state a limited registration certificate authorizing the registrant to make dental decisions pursuant to P.L.2007, c.259 (C.17:48G-1 et al.), if there is no pending dental license disciplinary action and no adverse information disclosed in a criminal background check or data bank search. A limited registration certificate shall not be deemed to authorize the registrant to treat patients or otherwise engage in the private practice of dentistry in this State. L.2007, c.259, s.4.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-71 Fee for certificate.

5. Each applicant for a limited registration certificate and each registrant shall pay to the board a fee in the amount established by the board, not to exceed a sum equal to 20 percent of the fee established for the issuance of a two-year active dentist registration; except that, the fee for submitting the application for the initial limited registration certificate shall be $125, which shall be deemed to include the fee which would otherwise be due for the unexpired portion of the first biennial registration period. The board shall process and issue a limited registration certificate to each qualified applicant within 30 days of its receipt of a completed application therefor. L.2007, c.259, s.5.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-72 Standards for dentists and holders of limited registration certificates.

6. Dentists licensed in New Jersey and holders of limited registration certificates are intended to be subject to the same standards of honesty, integrity and competency. In exercising its powers under R.S.45:6-1 et seq., the board shall apply the same standards as to honesty, integrity and competency to New Jersey dentists and to holders of limited registration certificates. L.2007, c.259, s.6.

N.J. Stat. § 45:6-73 License to practice dentistry required under certain circumstances.

6. Except as otherwise provided in P.L.1964, c.186 (C.45:6-16.1 et seq.), R.S.45:6-19 and R.S.45:6-20, no person other than a person duly licensed to practice dentistry in this State shall: a. make any diagnosis or develop any treatment plan with respect to the dental condition or treatment of any living person in this State; b. perform any surgical or irreversible procedure, including, but not limited to, the cutting of hard or soft tissue or the extraction of any tooth on any living person in this State; c. either bill or submit a claim for any service rendered involving the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene in this State; or d. receive payment for the performance of dental or dental hygienist services from any source other than an employer authorized by law to practice dentistry in this State or any dental clinic, institution, or employment agency, as defined pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1989, c.331 (C.34:8-43), that employs licensed dental hygienists to provide temporary dental hygiene services. L.2012, c.29, s.6.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-activity/statutesFetched: 10/17/2026