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2550 Cerrillos Road - 2nd Floor
P. O. Box 25101
Santa Fe, NM 87505
PHONE: (505) 476-4680 FAX: (505) 476-4545
Website: www.RLD.state.nm.us/boards/dental_health_care.aspx
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State of New Mexico
Board of Dental Health Care Practice
Statutes
Table of Contents
ARTICLE 5A
Dental Health Care
Title Page #
61-5A-1 Short title. 4
61-5A-2 Purpose. 4
61-5A-3 Definitions. 4-5
61-5A-4 Scope of practice. 5-7
61-5A-5 License required; exemptions. 7-9
61-5A-5.1 Non-dentist owner; employing or contracting for dental services. 9
61-5A-6 Certification of dental assistants. 9
61-5A-6.1 Expanded-function dental auxiliary; certification 10
61-5A-7 Dental and dental hygiene districts created. 10
61-5A-8 Board created. 10-11
61-5A-9 Committee created. 11
61-5A-10 Powers and duties of the board and committee. 11-12
61-5A-11 Ratification of committee recommendations. 12
61-5A-12 Dentists; requirements for licensure; specialty license. 12-13
61-5A-13 Dental hygienist licensure. 14
61-5A-14 Temporary licensure. 14
61-5A-14.1 Public service licensure 14-15
61-5A-15 Content of license and certificates; display of license;
3
renewals; retire license. 15-16
61-5A-16 License and certificate renewals. 16
61-5A-17 Retirement and inactive status; reactivation. 16-17
61-5A-18 Practicing without a license; penalty. 17
61-5A-19 Reinstatement of revoked or suspended license. 18
61-5A-20 Fees. 18-19
61-5A-21 Disciplinary proceedings; application of uniform licensing act. 19
61-5A-22 Anesthesia administration. 20
61-5A-23 Reporting of settlements and judgments; professional review actions;
immunity from civil damages. 20
61-5A-24 Injunction to stop unlicensed dental or dental hygiene practice. 20
61-5A-25 Protected actions and communications. 20-21
61-5A-26 Fund established. 21
61-5A-27 Criminal Offender Employment Act. 21
61-5A-28 Temporary provision. 21
61-5A-29 Licensure or certification under prior law. 21
61-5A-30 Termination of agency life; delayed repeal. 21
4
61-5A-1. Short title. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
Chapter 61, Article 5A NMSA 1978 may be cited as the "Dental Health Care Act".
61-5A-2. Purpose. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. In the interest of the public health, safety and welfare and to protect the public from the improper,
unprofessional, incompetent and unlawful practice of dentistry and dental hygiene, it is necessary to
provide laws and rules controlling the granting and use of the privilege to practice dentistry and dental
hygiene and to establish a board of dental health care and a dental hygienists committee to implement
and enforce those laws and rules.
B. The primary duties of the New Mexico board of dental health care are:
(1) to issue licenses to qualified dentists and owners of dental practices;
(2) to certify qualified dental assistants, expanded-function dental auxiliaries and community dental
health coordinators;
(3) to issue licenses to dental hygienists through the dental hygienists committee;
(4) to discipline incompetent or unprofessional dentists, dental assistants, owners of dental practices
and, through the dental hygienists committee, dental hygienists; and
(5) to aid in the rehabilitation of impaired dentists and dental hygienists for the purpose of protecting
the public.
61-5A-3. Definitions. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
As used in the Dental Health Care Act:
A. "assessment" means the review and documentation of the oral condition, and the recognition and
documentation of deviations from the healthy condition, without a diagnosis to determine the cause or
nature of disease or its treatment;
B. "board" means the New Mexico board of dental health care;
C. "certified dental assistant" means an individual certified by the dental assisting national board;
D. "collaborative dental hygiene practice" means a New Mexico licensed dental hygienist practicing
according to Subsections D through G of Section 61-5A-4 NMSA 1978;
E. "committee" means the New Mexico dental hygienists committee;
F. "community dental health coordinator" means a dental assistant, a dental hygienist or other trained
personnel certified by the board as a community dental health coordinator to provide educational,
preventive and limited palliative care and assessment services working collaboratively under the general
supervision of a licensed dentist in settings other than traditional dental offices and clinics;
G. "consulting dentist" means a dentist who has entered into an approved agreement to provide
consultation and create protocols with a collaborating dental hygienist and, when required, to provide
diagnosis and authorization for services, in accordance with the rules of the board and the committee;
H. "dental hygiene-focused assessment" means the documentation of existing oral and relevant
system conditions and the identification of potential oral disease to develop, communicate, implement
and evaluate a plan of oral hygiene care and treatment;
I. "dental assistant certified in expanded functions" means a dental assistant who meets specific
qualifications set forth by rule of the board;
J. "dental hygienist" means an individual who has graduated and received a degree from a dental
hygiene educational program that is accredited by the commission on dental accreditation, that provides
a minimum of two academic years of dental hygiene curriculum and that is an institution of higher
education; and "dental hygienist" means, except as the context otherwise requires, an individual who
holds a license to practice dental hygiene in New Mexico;
K. "dental laboratory" means any place where dental restorative, prosthetic, cosmetic and therapeutic
devices or orthodontic appliances are fabricated, altered or repaired by one or more persons under the
orders and authorization of a dentist;
L. "dental technician" means an individual, other than a licensed dentist, who fabricates, alters, repairs
or assists in the fabrication, alteration or repair of dental restorative, prosthetic, cosmetic and therapeutic
devices or orthodontic appliances under the orders and authorization of a dentist;
5
M. "dentist" means an individual who has graduated and received a degree from a school of dentistry
that is accredited by the commission on dental accreditation and, except as the context otherwise
requires, who holds a license to practice dentistry in New Mexico;
N. "direct supervision" means the process under which an act is performed when a dentist licensed
pursuant to the Dental Health Care Act:
(1) is physically present throughout the performance of the act;
(2) orders, controls and accepts full professional responsibility for the act performed; and
(3) evaluates and approves the procedure performed before the patient departs the care setting;
O. "expanded-function dental auxiliary" means a dental assistant, dental hygienist or other dental
practitioner that has received education beyond that required for licensure or certification in that
individual's scope of practice and that has been certified by the board as an expanded-function dental
auxiliary who works under the direct supervision of a dentist;
P. "general supervision" means the authorization by a dentist of the procedures to be used by a
dental hygienist, dental assistant or dental student and the execution of the procedures in accordance
with a dentist's diagnosis and treatment plan at a time the dentist is not physically present and in
facilities as designated by rule of the board;
Q. "indirect supervision" means that a dentist, or in certain settings a dental hygienist or dental
assistant certified in expanded functions, is present in the treatment facility while authorized treatments
are being performed by a dental hygienist, dental assistant or dental student;
R. "non-dentist owner" means an individual not licensed as a dentist in New Mexico or a corporate
entity not owned by a majority interest of a New Mexico licensed dentist that employs or contracts with a
dentist or dental hygienist to provide dental or dental hygiene services;
S. "palliative procedures" means nonsurgical, reversible procedures that are meant to alleviate pain
and stabilize acute or emergent problems; and
T. "teledentistry" means a dentist's use of health information technology in real time to provide limited
diagnostic and treatment planning services in cooperation with another dentist, a dental hygienist, a
community dental health coordinator or a student enrolled in a program of study to become a dental
assistant, dental hygienist or dentist.
61-5A-4. Scope of practice. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. As used in the Dental Health Care Act, "practice of dentistry" means:
(1) the diagnosis, treatment, correction, change, relief, prevention, prescription of remedy, surgical
operation and adjunctive treatment for any disease, pain, deformity, deficiency, injury, defect, lesion or
physical condition involving both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the teeth, gingivae, jaws and
adjacent hard and soft tissue of the oral and maxillofacial regions, including the prescription or
administration of any drug, medicine, biologic, apparatus, brace, anesthetic or other therapeutic or
diagnostic substance or technique by an individual or the individual's agent or employee gratuitously or
for any fee, reward, emolument or any other form of compensation whether direct or indirect;
(2) representation of an ability or willingness to do any act mentioned in Paragraph (1) of this
subsection;
(3) the review of dental insurance claims for therapeutic appropriateness of treatment, including but
not limited to the interpretation of radiographs, photographs, models, periodontal records and narratives;
(4) the offering of advice or authoritative comment regarding the appropriateness of dental therapies,
the need for recommended treatment or the efficacy of specific treatment modalities for other than the
purpose of consultation to another dentist; or
(5) with specific reference to the teeth, gingivae, jaws or adjacent hard or soft tissues of the oral and
maxillofacial region in living persons, to propose, agree or attempt to do or make an examination or give
an estimate of cost with intent to, or undertaking to:
(a) perform a physical evaluation of a patient in an office or in a hospital, clinic or other medical or
dental facility prior to, incident to and appropriate to the performance of any dental services or oral or
maxillofacial surgery;
(b) perform surgery, an extraction or any other operation or to administer an anesthetic in connection
therewith;
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(c) diagnose or treat a condition, disease, pain, deformity, deficiency, injury, lesion or other physical
condition;
(d) correct a malposition;
(e) treat a fracture;
(f) remove calcareous deposits;
(g) replace missing anatomy with an artificial substitute;
(h) construct, make, furnish, supply, reproduce, alter or repair an artificial substitute or restorative or
corrective appliance or place an artificial substitute or restorative or corrective appliance in the mouth or
attempt to adjust it;
(i) give interpretations or readings of dental radiographs;
(j) provide limited diagnostic and treatment planning via teledentistry; or
(k) do any other remedial, corrective or restorative work.
B. As used in the Dental Health Care Act, "the practice of dental hygiene" means the application of the
science of the prevention and treatment of oral disease through the provision of educational, assessment,
preventive, clinical and other therapeutic services under the general supervision of a dentist. A dental
hygienist in a collaborative practice may perform the procedures listed in this section without general
supervision while the hygienist is in a cooperative working relationship with a consulting dentist, pursuant
to rules promulgated by the board and the committee. "The practice of dental hygiene" includes:
(1) prophylaxis, which is the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the tooth structures as a
means to control local irritational factors;
(2) removing diseased crevicular tissue and related nonsurgical periodontal procedures;
(3) except in cases where a tooth exhibits cavitation of the enamel surface, assessing without a
dentist's evaluation whether the application of pit and fissure sealants is indicated;
(4) except in cases where a tooth exhibits cavitation of the enamel surface, applying pit and fissure
sealants without mechanical alteration of the tooth;
(5) applying fluorides and other topical therapeutic and preventive agents;
(6) exposing and assessing oral radiographs for abnormalities;
(7) screening to identify indications of oral abnormalities;
(8) performing dental hygiene-focused assessments;
(9) assessing periodontal conditions; and
(10) such other closely related services as permitted by the rules of the committee and the board.
C. In addition to performing dental hygiene as defined in Subsection B of this section, a dental
hygienist may apply preventive topical fluorides and remineralization agents without supervision in public
and community medical facilities, schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities and such other settings as
the committee may determine by rule ratified by the board, so long as the dental hygienist's license is not
restricted pursuant to the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act [61-5B-1 NMSA 1978].
D. In addition to performing dental hygiene as defined in Subsection B of this section, dental
hygienists who have met the criteria as the committee shall establish and the board shall ratify may
administer local anesthesia under indirect supervision of a dentist.
E. The board may certify a dental hygienist to administer local anesthetic under the general
supervision of a dentist if the dental hygienist, in addition to performing dental hygiene as defined in
Subsection B of this section:
(1) has administered local anesthesia under the indirect supervision of a dentist for at least two years,
during which time the dental hygienist has competently administered at least twenty cases of local
anesthesia and can document this with a signed affirmation by the supervising dentist;
(2) administers local anesthetic under the written prescription or order of a dentist; and
(3) emergency medical services are available in accordance with rules promulgated by the board.
F. A dental hygienist:
(1) may prescribe, administer and dispense a fluoride supplement, topically applied fluoride or topically
applied antimicrobial only when the prescribing, administering or dispensing is performed:
(a) under the supervision of a dentist;
(b) pursuant to rules the board and the committee have adopted;
7
(c) within the parameters of a drug formulary approved by the board in consultation with the board of
pharmacy;
(d) within the parameters of guidelines established pursuant to Section 61-5A-10 NMSA 1978; and
(e) in compliance with state laws concerning prescription packaging, labeling and recordkeeping
requirements; and
(2) shall not otherwise dispense dangerous drugs or controlled substances.
G. A New Mexico licensed dental hygienist may be certified for collaborative dental hygiene practice in
accordance with the educational and experience criteria established collaboratively by the committee and
the board.
H. An expanded-function dental auxiliary may perform the following procedures under the direct
supervision of a dentist:
(1) placing and shaping direct restorations;
(2) taking final impressions, excluding those for fixed or removable prosthetics involving multiple
teeth;
(3) cementing indirect and provisional restorations for temporary use;
(4) applying pit and fissure sealants without mechanical alteration of the tooth;
(5) placing temporary and sedative restorative material in hand-excavated carious lesions and
unprepared tooth fractures;
(6) removal of orthodontic bracket cement; and
(7) fitting and shaping of stainless steel crowns to be cemented by a dentist.
I. An expanded-function dental auxiliary may re-cement temporary or permanent crowns with
temporary cement under the general supervision of a dentist in a situation that a dentist deems to be an
emergency.
J. An expanded-function dental auxiliary may perform other related functions for which the expanded-
function dental auxiliary meets the training and educational standards established by the board and that
are not expressly prohibited by the board.
K. For the purpose of this section, "collaborative dental hygiene practice" means the application of the
science of the prevention and treatment of oral disease through the provision of educational, assessment,
preventive, clinical and other therapeutic services as specified in Subsection B of this section in a
cooperative working relationship with a consulting dentist, but without general supervision as set forth by
the rules established and approved by both the board and the committee.
61-5A-5. License required; exemptions. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Unless licensed to practice as a dentist under the Dental Health Care Act, no person shall:
(1) practice dentistry;
(2) use the title "dentist", "dental surgeon", "oral surgeon" or any other title, abbreviation, letters,
figures, signs or devices that indicate the person is a licensed dentist; or
(3) perform any of the acts enumerated under the definition of the practice of dentistry as defined in
the Dental Health Care Act.
B. The following, under the stipulations described, may practice dentistry or an area of dentistry
without a New Mexico dental license:
(1) regularly licensed physicians or surgeons are not prohibited from extracting teeth or treating any
disease coming within the province of the practice of medicine;
(2) New Mexico licensed dental hygienists and community dental health coordinators may provide
those services within their scope of practice that are also within the scope of the practice of dentistry;
(3) any dental student duly enrolled in an accredited school of dentistry recognized by the board, while
engaged in educational programs offered by the school in private offices, public clinics or educational
institutions within the state of New Mexico under the indirect supervision of a licensed dentist;
(4) any dental hygiene or dental assisting student duly enrolled in an accredited school of dental
hygiene or dental assisting engaged in procedures within or outside the scope of dental hygiene that are
part of the curriculum of that program in the school setting and under the indirect supervision of a faculty
member of the accredited program who is a licensed dentist, dental hygienist or dental assistant certified
in the procedures being taught;
8
(5) unlicensed persons performing for a licensed dentist merely mechanical work upon inert matter in
the construction, making, alteration or repairing of any artificial dental substitute, dental restorative or
corrective appliance, when the casts or impressions for the work have been furnished by a licensed
dentist and where the work is prescribed by a dentist pursuant to a written authorization by that dentist;
(6) commissioned dental officers of the uniformed forces of the United States and dentists providing
services to the United States public health service, the United States department of veterans affairs or
within federally controlled facilities in the discharge of their official duties, provided that such persons
who hold dental licenses in New Mexico shall be subject to the provisions of the Dental Health Care Act;
and
(7) dental assistants performing adjunctive services to the provision of dental care, under the indirect
supervision of a dentist, as determined by rule of the board if such services are not within the practice of
dental hygiene as specifically listed in Subsection B of Section 61-5A-4 NMSA 1978, unless allowed in
Subsection E of this section.
C. Unless licensed to practice as a dental hygienist under the Dental Health Care Act, no person shall:
(1) practice as a dental hygienist;
(2) use the title "dental hygienist" or abbreviation "R.D.H." or any other title, abbreviation, letters,
figures, signs or devices that indicate the person is a licensed dental hygienist; or
(3) perform any of the acts defined as the practice of dental hygiene in the Dental Health Care Act.
D. The following, under the stipulations described, may practice dental hygiene or the area of dental
hygiene outlined without a New Mexico dental hygiene license:
(1) students enrolled in an accredited dental hygiene program engaged in procedures that are part of
the curriculum of that program and under the indirect supervision of a licensed faculty member of the
accredited program;
(2) dental assistants and community dental health coordinators working under general supervision
who:
(a) expose dental radiographs after being certified in expanded functions by the board;
(b) perform rubber cup coronal polishing, which is not represented as a prophylaxis, having satisfied
the educational requirements as established by rules of the board;
(c) apply fluorides as established by rules of the board; and
(d) perform those other dental hygienist functions as recommended to the board by the committee
and set forth by rule of the board; and
(3) dental assistants certified in expanded functions, working under the indirect supervision of a dental
hygienist certified for collaborative practice and under the protocols established in a collaborative practice
agreement with a consulting dentist.
E. Dental assistants working under the indirect supervision of a dentist and in accordance with the
rules and regulations established by the board may:
(1) expose dental radiographs;
(2) perform rubber cup coronal polishing that is not represented as a prophylaxis;
(3) apply fluoride and pit and fissure sealants without mechanical alteration of the tooth;
(4) perform those other dental hygienist functions as recommended to the board by the committee
and set forth by rule of the board; and
(5) perform such other related functions that are not expressly prohibited by statute or rules of the
board.
F. A community dental health coordinator working under the general supervision of a dentist and in
accordance with the rules established by the board may:
(1) place temporary and sedative restorative material in unexcavated carious lesions and unprepared
tooth fractures;
(2) collect and transmit diagnostic data and images via telemetric connection;
(3) dispense and apply medications on the specific order of a dentist;
(4) provide limited palliative procedures for dental emergencies in consultation with a supervising
dentist as allowed by the rules the board has promulgated; and
9
(5) perform other related functions for which the community dental health coordinator meets training
and educational standards established by the board and that are not expressly prohibited by statute or
rules promulgated by the board.
G. Unless licensed as a dentist or non-dentist owner, or as otherwise exempt from the licensing
requirements of the Dental Health Care Act, no individual or corporate entity shall:
(1) employ or contract with a dentist or dental hygienist for the purpose of providing dental or dental
hygiene services as defined by their respective scopes of practice; or
(2) enter into a managed care or other agreement to provide dental or dental hygiene services in New
Mexico.
H. The following, under stipulations described, may function as a non-dentist owner without a New
Mexico license:
(1) government agencies providing dental services within affiliated facilities;
(2) government agencies engaged in providing public health measures to prevent dental disease;
(3) spouses of deceased licensed dentists or dental hygienists for a period of one year following the
death of the licensee;
(4) accredited schools of dentistry, dental hygiene and dental assisting providing dental services solely
in an educational setting;
(5) dental hygienists licensed in New Mexico or corporate entities with a majority interest owned by a
dental hygienist licensed in New Mexico;
(6) federally qualified health centers, as designated by the United States department of health and
human services, providing dental services;
(7) nonprofit community-based entities and organizations that use public funds to provide dental and
dental hygiene services for indigent persons; and
(8) hospitals licensed by the department of health.
61-5A-5.1. Non-dentist owner; employing or contracting for dental services. (Repealed
effective July 1, 2016.)
A. A person, corporation or agency that desires to function as a non-dentist owner in New Mexico shall
apply to the board for the proper license and shall adhere to the requirements, re-licensure criteria and
fees as established by the rules of the board.
B. Unless licensed as a dentist or non-dentist owner, or as otherwise exempt from the licensing
requirements of the Dental Health Care Act, an individual or corporate entity shall not:
(1) employ or contract with a dentist or dental hygienist for the purpose of providing dental or dental
hygiene services as defined by their respective scopes of practice; or
(2) enter into a managed care or other agreement to provide dental or dental hygiene services in New
Mexico.
61-5A-6. Certification of dental assistants, expanded-function dental auxiliaries and
community dental health coordinators. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. A certified dental assistant, an expanded-function dental auxiliary, a community dental health
coordinator or a dental assistant certified in expanded functions shall be required to adhere to the
educational requirements, examinations, recertification criteria and fees as established by rules and
regulations of the board. The fee shall be the same for one or more expanded functions.
B. Certificates granted by the board may be revoked, suspended, stipulated or otherwise limited, and a
certificate holder may be fined or placed on probation if found guilty of violation of the Dental Health
Care Act.
C. No individual shall use the title "C.D.A." unless granted certification by the dental assistant national
board.
D. Unless certified to practice as a dental assistant certified in expanded functions or an expanded-
function dental auxiliary, no person shall:
(1) practice as a dental assistant certified in expanded functions as defined by rules of the board; or
10
(2) use the title or represent oneself as an assistant certified in expanded functions or an expanded-
function dental auxiliary or use any title, abbreviation, letters, figures, signs or devices that indicate the
person is a dental assistant certified in expanded functions or an expanded-function dental auxiliary
61-5A-6.1. Expanded-function dental auxiliary; certification. (Repealed effective July 1,
2016.)
A. The board shall establish academic standards and criteria for certifying dental assistants, dental
hygienists or other dental personnel to practice as expanded-function dental auxiliaries. Those standards
and criteria shall include a formal curriculum and a certifying examination.
B. The board shall promulgate rules relating to the certification of expanded-function dental auxiliaries
pursuant to the State Rules Act.
61-5A-7. Dental and dental hygiene districts created. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
For the purpose of selecting members of the board and the committee, there are created five districts
composed of the following counties:
A. district I: San Juan, Rio Arriba, Taos, Sandoval, McKinley and Cibola;
B. district II: Colfax, Union, Mora, Harding, San Miguel, Quay, Guadalupe, Santa Fe and Los Alamos;
C. district III: Bernalillo, Valencia and Torrance;
D. district IV: Catron, Socorro, Grant, Sierra, Hidalgo, Luna, Dona Ana and Otero; and
E. district V: Lincoln, De Baca, Roosevelt, Chaves, Eddy, Curry and Lea.
61-5A-8. Board created. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. There is created the nine-member "New Mexico board of dental health care". The board shall
consist of five dentists, two dental hygienists and two public members. The dentists shall be actively
practicing and have been licensed practitioners and residents of New Mexico for a period of five years
preceding the date of appointment. The dental hygienist members shall be members of the committee
and shall be elected annually to sit on the board by those sitting on the committee. The appointed public
members shall be residents of New Mexico and shall have no financial interest, direct or indirect, in the
professions regulated in the Dental Health Care Act.
B. The governor may appoint the dentist members from a list of names submitted by the New Mexico
dental association. There shall be one member from each district. All board members shall serve until
their successors have been appointed. No more than one member may be employed by or receive
remuneration from a dental or dental hygiene educational institution.
C. Appointments for dentists and public members shall be for terms of five years. Dentists'
appointments shall be made so that the term of one dentist member expires on July 1 of each year.
Public members' five-year terms begin at the date of appointment.
D. Any board member failing to attend three board or committee meetings, either regular or special,
during the board member's term shall automatically be removed as a member of the board unless
excused from attendance by the board for good cause shown. Members of the board not sitting on the
committee shall not be required or allowed to attend committee disciplinary hearings.
E. No board member shall serve more than two full terms on any state-chartered board whose
responsibility includes the regulation of practice or licensure of dentistry or dental hygiene in New Mexico.
A partial term of three or more years shall be considered a full term.
F. In the event of any vacancy, the secretary of the board shall immediately notify the governor, the
board and committee members and the New Mexico dental association of the reason for its occurrence
and action taken by the board, so as to expedite appointment of a new board member.
G. The board shall meet at least four times every year and no more than two meetings shall be public
rules hearings. Regular meetings shall not be more than one hundred twenty days apart. The board may
also hold special meetings and emergency meetings in accordance with rules of the board upon written
notice to all members of the board and the committee.
H. Members of the board shall be reimbursed as provided in the Per Diem and Mileage Act [10-8-1
NMSA 1978] and shall receive no other compensation, perquisite or allowance; however, the secretary-
treasurer may be compensated at the discretion of the board.
11
I. A simple majority of the board members currently serving shall constitute a quorum, provided at
least two of that quorum are not dentist members and three are dentist members.
J. The board shall elect officers annually as deemed necessary to administer its duties and as provided
in its rules.
61-5A-9. Committee created. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. There is created the nine-member "New Mexico dental hygienists committee". The committee shall
consist of five dental hygienists, two dentists and two public members. The dental hygienists shall be
actively practicing and have been licensed practitioners and residents of New Mexico for a period of five
years preceding the date of their appointment. The dentists and public members shall be members of the
board and shall be elected annually to sit on the committee by those members sitting on the board.
B. The governor may appoint the dental hygienists from a list of names submitted by the New Mexico
dental hygienists' association. There shall be one member from each district. All members shall serve
until their successors have been appointed. No more than one member may be employed by or receive
remuneration from a dental or dental hygiene educational institution.
C. Appointments for dental hygienist members shall be for terms of five years. Appointments shall be
made so that the term of one dental hygienist expires on July 1 of each year.
D. Any committee member failing to attend three committee or board meetings, either regular or
special, during the committee member's term shall automatically be removed as a member of the
committee unless excused from attendance by the committee for good cause shown. Members of the
committee not sitting on the board shall not be required or allowed to attend board disciplinary hearings.
E. No committee member shall serve more than two full terms on any state-chartered board whose
responsibility includes the regulation of practice or licensure of dentistry or dental hygiene in New Mexico.
A partial term of three or more years shall be considered a full term.
F. In the event of any vacancy, the secretary of the committee shall immediately notify the governor,
the committee and board members and the New Mexico dental hygienists' association of the reason for
its occurrence and action taken by the committee, so as to expedite appointment of a new committee
member.
G. The committee shall meet at least four times every year and no more than two meetings shall be
public rules hearings. Regular meetings shall not be more than one hundred twenty days apart. The
committee may also hold special meetings and emergency meetings in accordance with the rules of the
board and committee, upon written notification to all members of the committee and the board.
H. Members of the committee shall be reimbursed as provided in the Per Diem and Mileage Act [10-8-
1 NMSA 1978] and shall receive no other compensation, perquisite or allowance.
I. A simple majority of the committee members currently serving shall constitute a quorum, provided
at least two of that quorum are not hygienist members and three are hygienist members.
J. The committee shall elect officers annually as deemed necessary to administer its duties and as
provided in rules and regulations of the board and committee.
61-5A-10. Powers and duties of the board and committee. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
In addition to any other authority provided by law, the board and the committee, when designated, shall:
A. enforce and administer the provisions of the Dental Health Care Act;
B. adopt, publish, file and revise, in accordance with the Uniform Licensing Act [61-1-1 NMSA 1978]
and the State Rules Act [14-4-1 NMSA 1978], all rules as may be necessary to:
(1) regulate the examination and licensure of dentists and, through the committee, regulate the
examination and licensure of dental hygienists;
(2) provide for the examination and certification of dental assistants by the board;
(3) provide for the regulation of dental technicians by the board;
(4) regulate the practice of dentistry, dental assisting and, through the committee, regulate the
practice of dental hygiene; and
(5) provide for the regulation and licensure of non-dentist owners by the board;
C. adopt and use a seal;
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D. administer oaths to all applicants, witnesses and others appearing before the board or the
committee, as appropriate;
E. keep an accurate record of all meetings, receipts and disbursements;
F. grant, deny, review, suspend and revoke licenses and certificates to practice dentistry, dental
assisting and, through the committee, dental hygiene and censure, reprimand, fine and place on
probation and stipulation dentists, dental assistants and, through the committee, dental hygienists, in
accordance with the Uniform Licensing Act for any cause stated in the Dental Health Care Act;
G. grant, deny, review, suspend and revoke licenses to own dental practices and censure, reprimand,
fine and place on probation and stipulation non-dentist owners, in accordance with the Uniform Licensing
Act, for any cause stated in the Dental Health Care Act;
H. maintain records of the name, address, license number and such other demographic data as may
serve the needs of the board of licensees, together with a record of license renewals, suspensions,
revocations, probations, stipulations, censures, reprimands and fines. The board shall make available
composite reports of demographic data but shall limit public access to information regarding individuals
to their names, addresses, license numbers and license actions or as required by statute;
I. hire and contract for services from persons as necessary to carry out the board's duties;
J. establish ad hoc committees whose members shall be appointed by the chair with the advice and
consent of the board or committee and shall include at least one member of the board or committee as it
deems necessary for carrying on its business;
K. have the authority to pay per diem and mileage to individuals who are appointed by the board or
the committee to serve on ad hoc committees;
L. have the authority to hire or contract with investigators to investigate possible violations of the
Dental Health Care Act;
M. have the authority to issue investigative subpoenas prior to the issuance of a notice of
contemplated action for the purpose of investigating complaints against dentists, dental assistants and,
through the committee, dental hygienists licensed under the Dental Health Care Act;
N. have the authority to sue or be sued and to retain the services of an attorney at law for counsel
and representation regarding the carrying out of the board's duties;
O. have the authority to create and maintain a formulary, in consultation with the board of pharmacy,
of medications that a dental hygienist may prescribe, administer or dispense in accordance with rules the
board has promulgated; and
P. establish continuing education or continued competency requirements for dentists, certified dental
assistants in expanded functions, dental technicians and, through the committee, dental hygienists
61-5A-11. Ratification of committee recommendations. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. The board shall ratify the recommendations of the committee unless the board makes a specific
finding that a recommendation is:
(1) beyond the jurisdiction of the committee;
(2) an undue financial impact upon the board; or
(3) not supported by the record.
B. The board shall provide the necessary expenditures incurred by the committee and the board in
implementing and executing the ratified recommendations.
61-5A-12. Dentists; requirements for licensure; specialty license. (Repealed effective July 1,
2016.)
A. All applicants for licensure as a dentist shall have graduated and received a degree from a school of
dentistry that is accredited by the commission on dental accreditation and shall have passed the written
portion of the dental examination administered by the joint commission on national dental examinations
of the American dental association or, if the test is not available, another written examination determined
by the board.
B. Applicants for a general license to practice dentistry by examination shall be required, in addition to
the requirements set forth in Subsection A of this section, to pass a test covering the laws and rules for
13
the practice of dentistry in New Mexico. Written examinations shall be supplemented by the board or its
agents by administering to each applicant a practical or clinical examination that reasonably tests the
applicant's qualifications to practice general dentistry. These examinations shall include examinations
offered by the central regional dental testing service, northeast regional board of dental examiners,
southern regional testing agency or western regional examining board or any other comparable practical
clinical examination the board approves; provided, however, that the board may disapprove any
examination after it considers compelling evidence to support disapproval. Upon an applicant passing the
written and clinical examinations and payment in advance of the necessary fees, the board shall issue a
license to practice dentistry.
C. The board may issue a general license to practice dentistry, by credentials, without a practical or
clinical examination to an applicant who is duly licensed by a clinical examination as a dentist under the
laws of another state or territory of the United States; provided that license is active and that all dental
licenses that individual possesses have been in good standing for five years prior to application. The
credentials must show that no dental board actions have been taken during the five years prior to
application; that no proceedings are pending in any states in which the applicant has had a license in the
five years prior to application; and that a review of public records, the national practitioner data bank or
other nationally recognized data resources that record actions against a dentist in the United States does
not reveal any activities or unacquitted civil or criminal charges that could reasonably be construed to
constitute evidence of danger to patients, including acts of moral turpitude.
D. The board may issue a general license to practice dentistry by credentials to an applicant who
meets the requirements, including payment of appropriate fees and the passing of an examination
covering the laws and rules of the practice of dentistry in New Mexico, of the Dental Health Care Act and
rules promulgated pursuant to that act, and who:
(1) has maintained a uniform service practice in the United States military or public health service for
three years immediately preceding the application; or
(2) is duly licensed by examination as a dentist pursuant to the laws of another state or territory of the
United States.
E. The board may issue a specialty license by examination to an applicant who has passed a clinical
and written examination given by the board or its examining agents that covers the applicant's specialty.
The applicant shall have a postgraduate degree or certificate from an accredited dental college, school of
dentistry of a university or other residency program that is accredited by the commission on dental
accreditation in one of the specialty areas of dentistry recognized by the American dental association.
The applicant shall also meet all other requirements as established by rules of the board, which shall
include an examination covering the laws and rules of the practice of dentistry in New Mexico. A
specialty license limits the licensee to practice only in that specialty area.
F. The board may issue a specialty license, by credentials, without a practical or clinical examination to
an applicant who is duly licensed by a clinical examination as a dentist under the laws of another state or
territory of the United States and who has a postgraduate degree or certificate from an accredited dental
college, school of dentistry of a university or other residency program that is accredited by the
commission on dental accreditation in one of the specialty areas of dentistry recognized by the American
dental association; provided that license is active and that all dental licenses that individual possesses
have been in good standing for five years prior to application. The credentials must show that no dental
board actions have been taken during the five years prior to application; that no proceedings are pending
in any states in which the applicant has had a license in the five years prior to application; and that a
review of public records, the national practitioner data bank or other nationally recognized data resources
that record actions against a dentist in the United States does not reveal any activities or unacquitted civil
or criminal charges that could reasonably be construed to constitute evidence of danger to patients,
including acts of moral turpitude. The applicant shall also meet all other qualifications as deemed
necessary by rules of the board, which shall include an examination covering the laws and rules of the
practice of dentistry in New Mexico. A specialty license limits the licensee to practice only in that
specialty area.
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61-5A-13. Dental hygienist licensure. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Applicants for licensure shall have graduated and received a degree from an accredited dental
hygiene educational program that provides a minimum of two academic years of dental hygiene
curriculum and is a post-secondary educational institution accredited by the joint commission on dental
accreditation and shall have passed the written portion of the dental hygiene examination administered
by the joint commission on national dental examinations of the American dental association or, if this test
is not available, another written examination determined by the committee.
B. Applicants for licensure by examination shall be required, in addition to the requirements set forth
in Subsection A of this section, to pass a written examination covering the laws and rules for practice in
New Mexico. Each written examination shall be supplemented by a practical or clinical examination
administered by the committee or its agents that reasonably tests the applicant's qualifications to practice
as a dental hygienist. Upon an applicant passing the written and clinical examinations, the board, upon
recommendation of the committee, shall issue a license to practice as a dental hygienist.
C. The board, upon the committee's recommendation, shall issue a license to practice as a dental
hygienist by credentials without examination, including practical or clinical examination, to an applicant
who is a duly licensed dental hygienist by examination under the laws of another state or territory of the
United States and whose license is in good standing for the two previous years in that jurisdiction and if
the applicant otherwise meets all other requirements of the Dental Health Care Act, including payment of
appropriate fees and passing an examination covering the laws and rules pertaining to practice as a
dental hygienist in New Mexico.
61-5A-14. Temporary licensure. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
The board or the committee may issue a temporary license to practice dentistry or dental hygiene to any
applicant who is licensed to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in another state or territory of the United
States and who is otherwise qualified to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in this state. The following
provisions shall apply:
A. the applicant shall hold a valid license in good standing in another state or territory of the United
States;
B. the applicant shall practice dentistry or dental hygiene under the sponsorship of or in association
with a licensed New Mexico dentist or dental hygienist;
C. the temporary license may be issued for those activities as stipulated by the board or committee in
the rules of the board. It may be issued upon written application of the applicant when accompanied by
such proof of qualifications as the secretary-treasurer of the board or committee, in his discretion, may
require. Temporary licensees shall engage in only those activities specified on the temporary license for
the time designated, and the temporary license shall identify the licensed New Mexico dentist or dental
hygienist who will sponsor or associate with the applicant during the time the applicant practices
dentistry or dental hygiene in New Mexico;
D. the sponsoring or associating dentist or dental hygienist shall submit an affidavit attesting to the
qualifications of the applicant and the activities the applicant will perform;
E. the temporary license shall be issued for a period not to exceed twelve months and may be
renewed upon application and payment of required fees;
F. the application for a temporary license under this section shall be accompanied by a license fee; and
G. the temporary licensee shall be required to comply with the Dental Health Care Act and all rules
promulgated pursuant thereto.
61-5A-14.1. Public-service licensure. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
The board or the committee may issue a temporary public-service license to practice dentistry or dental
hygiene to an applicant who is licensed to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in another state or territory
of the United States or who is enrolled as a dental resident in a residency program in this state and the
commission on dental accreditation has accredited that program. That applicant shall be otherwise
qualified to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in this state. The following provisions shall apply:
15
A. the applicant for public-service licensure shall hold a valid license in good standing in another state
or territory of the United States or be enrolled as a dental resident in a residency program in the state
that the commission on dental accreditation has accredited;
B. a temporary public-service license issued to a dental residency student who has not taken and
passed a clinical examination accepted by the board shall not be renewed after the student has
completed the residency program;
C. the applicant shall practice dentistry or dental hygiene under the sponsorship of or in association
with a licensed New Mexico dentist or dental hygienist;
D. the public-service license may be issued for those activities as stipulated by the board or committee
in the rules of the board. It may be issued upon written application of the applicant when accompanied
by such proof of qualifications as the secretary-treasurer of the board or committee, in the secretary-
treasurer's discretion, may require. Public-service licensees shall engage in only those activities specified
on the public-service license for the time designated, and the public-service license shall identify the
licensed New Mexico dentist or dental hygienist who will sponsor or associate with the applicant during
the time the applicant practices dentistry or dental hygiene in New Mexico;
E. the sponsoring or associating dentist or dental hygienist shall submit an affidavit attesting to the
qualifications of the applicant and the activities the applicant will perform;
F. the public-service license shall be issued for a period not to exceed twelve months and may be
renewed upon application and payment of required fees;
G. the application for a public-service license under this section shall be accompanied by a license fee;
H. the public-service licensee shall be required to comply with the Dental Health Care Act and all rules
promulgated pursuant to that act; and
I. a dentist or dental hygienist providing dental care services to a charitable dental care project may
provide dental care pursuant to a presumptive temporary public-service license valid for a period of no
longer than three days. The dentist or dental hygienist shall be otherwise subject to the provisions of
this section and board rules governing public-service licensure. This presumptive temporary public-
service license is only valid when:
(1) the dentist or dental hygienist receives no compensation;
(2) the project is sponsored by an entity that meets the board's definition of "entity" and that the
board has approved to undertake the charitable project;
(3) the dental care is performed within the limits of the license that the dentist or dental hygienist
holds in another jurisdiction;
(4) upon request, the out-of-state dentist or dental hygienist produces any document necessary to
verify the dentist's or dental hygienist's credentials; and
(5) the out-of-state dentist or dental hygienist works under the indirect supervision of a dentist or
dental hygienist licensed in this state
61-5A-15. Content of license and certificates; display of license; renewals; retire license.
(Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. All dental licenses issued by the board shall bear:
(1) a serial number;
(2) the full name of the licensee;
(3) the date of issue;
(4) the seal of the board;
(5) if the license is a specialty license, the specialty to which practice is limited;
(6) the signatures of a majority of the board members; and
(7) the attestation of the board president and secretary.
B. All dental hygienist licenses issued by the board shall bear:
(1) a serial number;
(2) the full name of the licensee;
(3) the date of issue;
(4) the seal of the board;
(5) the signatures of a majority of the committee members; and
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(6) the attestation of the board president and secretary.
C. Certificates issued to dental assistants shall bear:
(1) a serial number;
(2) the full name of the assistant;
(3) the date of issue;
(4) the date of expiration;
(5) the expanded functions certified to perform; and
(6) the attestation of the board secretary.
D. All licenses and certificates shall be displayed in a conspicuous place in the office where the holder
practices. The license or certificate shall, upon request, be exhibited to any of the members of the board,
the committee or its authorized agent.
61-5A-16. License and certificate renewals. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Except as provided in Subsection I of this section, all licensees shall be required to renew their
licenses triennially as established by rules of the board.
B. All dental assistants certified in expanded functions, expanded-function dental auxiliaries and
community dental health coordinators shall be required to renew their certificates triennially as
established by rules of the board.
C. The board or committee may establish a method to provide for staggered triennial terms and may
prorate triennial renewal fees and impaired dentist and dental hygienist fees until staggered triennial
renewal is established. The fact that a licensee has not received a renewal form from the board or
committee shall not relieve the licensee of the duty to renew the license or certificate nor shall such
omission on the part of the board or committee operate to exempt the licensee from the penalties for
failure to renew the licensee's license or certificate.
D. All licensees shall pay a triennial renewal fee and an impaired dentist and dental hygienist fee, and
all licensees shall return a completed renewal application form that includes proof of continuing education
or continued competency.
E. Each application for triennial renewal of license shall state the licensee's full name, business
address, the date and number of the license and all other information requested by the board or
committee.
F. A licensee who fails to submit an application for triennial renewal on or before July 1 but who
submits an application for triennial renewal within thirty days thereafter shall be assessed a late fee.
G. A licensee who fails to submit application for triennial renewal between thirty and sixty days of the
July 1 deadline may have the licensee's license or certificate suspended. If the licensee renews by that
time, the licensee shall be assessed a cumulative late fee.
H. The board or the committee may summarily revoke, for nonpayment of fees or failure to comply
with continuing education or continued competency requirements, the license or certificate of a licensee
or certificate holder who has failed to renew the license or certificate on or before August 31.
I. A license for a non-dentist owner shall be renewed triennially as established by rules. An application
for renewal of a non-dentist owner license shall state the name, business address, date and number of
the license and all other information as required by rule of the board. If a non-dentist owner fails to
submit the application for renewal of the license by July 1, the board may assess a late fee. If the non-
dentist owner fails to submit the application for a renewal license within sixty days of the July 1 renewal
deadline, the board may suspend the license. The license of a non-dentist owner may be summarily
revoked by the board for nonpayment of fees.
J. Assessment of fees pursuant to this section is not subject to the Uniform Licensing Act [61-1-1
NMSA 1978].
61-5A-17. Retirement and inactive status; reactivation. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Any dentist or dental hygienist who wishes to retire from the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene
shall meet all requirements for retirement as set by rules of the board and the committee. The licensee
shall notify the board or the committee in writing before the expiration of the licensee's current license,
and the secretary of the board or the committee shall acknowledge the receipt of notice and record the
17
same. If, within a period of three years from the date of retirement, the dentist or dental hygienist
wishes to resume practice, the applicant shall so notify the board or the committee in writing and give
proof of completing all requirements as prescribed by rules of the board and the committee to reactivate
the license.
B. At any time during the three-year period following retirement, a dentist or dental hygienist with a
retired New Mexico license may request in writing to the board or the committee that his license be
placed in inactive status. Upon the receipt of the application and fees as determined by the board or the
committee and with the approval of the board or the committee, the license may be placed in inactive
status.
C. A licensee whose license has been placed in inactive status may not engage in any of the activities
contained within the scope of practice of dentistry or dental hygiene in New Mexico described in Section
61-5A-4 NMSA 1978.
D. Licensees with inactive licenses must renew their licenses triennially and comply with all the
requirements set by the board and the committee.
E. If a licensee with an inactive license wishes to resume the active practice of dentistry or dental
hygiene, the licensee must notify the board or the committee in writing and provide proof of completion
of all requirements to reactivate the license as prescribed by rule of the board or the committee. Upon
payment of all fees due, the board may reactivate the license and the licensee may resume the practice
of dentistry or dental hygiene subject to any stipulations of the board or the committee.
F. Inactive licenses must be reactivated or permanently retired within nine years of having been placed
in inactive status.
G. Assessment of fees pursuant to this section is not subject to the Uniform Licensing Act [61-1-1
NMSA 1978].
61-5A-18. Practicing without a license; penalty. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Any person who practices dentistry or who attempts to practice dentistry without first complying
with the provisions of the Dental Health Care Act and without being the holder of a license entitling the
practitioner to practice dentistry in New Mexico is guilty of a fourth degree felony and upon conviction
shall be sentenced pursuant to the provisions of the Criminal Sentencing Act [31-18-1 NMSA 1978] to
imprisonment for a definite period not to exceed eighteen months and, in the discretion of the sentencing
court, to a fine not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both. Each occurrence of practicing
dentistry or attempting to practice dentistry without complying with the Dental Health Care Act shall be a
separate violation.
B. Any person who practices as a dental hygienist or who attempts to practice as a dental hygienist
without first complying with the provisions of the Dental Health Care Act and without being the holder of
a license entitling the practitioner to practice as a dental hygienist in New Mexico is guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be sentenced under the provisions of the Criminal Sentencing Act
to imprisonment for a definite period less than one year and, in the discretion of the sentencing court, to
a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both. Each occurrence of practicing as a dental
hygienist or attempting to practice as a dental hygienist without complying with the Dental Health Care
Act shall be a separate violation.
C. A person that functions or attempts to function as a non-dentist owner or who is an officer of a
corporate entity that functions or attempts to function as a non-dentist owner in New Mexico without first
complying with the provisions of the Dental Health Care Act is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon
conviction shall be sentenced pursuant to the provisions of the Criminal Sentencing Act to imprisonment
for a definite period not to exceed one year and, in the discretion of the sentencing court, to a fine not to
exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both. Each occurrence of functioning as a non-dentist owner
without complying with the Dental Health Care Act shall be a separate violation.
D. The attorney general or district attorney shall prosecute all violations of the Dental Health Care Act.
E. Upon conviction of any person for violation of any provision of the Dental Health Care Act, the
convicting court may, in addition to the penalty provided in this section, enjoin the person from any
further or continued violations of the Dental Health Care Act and enforce the order of contempt
proceedings.
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61-5A-19. Reinstatement of revoked or suspended license. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Unless otherwise stated in the order of revocation, a motion for reinstatement of a revoked license
may not be filed for a period of at least three years from the effective date of the revocation.
B. If the motion for reinstatement is denied, no further motions for reinstatement shall be considered
for a period of one year.
C. A licensee who has been suspended for a specific period of time shall be automatically reinstated at
the expiration of the period specified in the order of suspension. The suspended dentist or dental
hygienist will automatically be reinstated as of the day after the expiration of the period of suspension;
provided that prior to the expiration of such time if the administrative prosecutor has filed with the board
or committee the written objections, the suspended dentist or dental hygienist shall not be automatically
reinstated. Should objections be filed, the petition for reinstatement shall be referred to the board or
committee for hearing under Subsection E of this section.
D. Suspended dentists or dental hygienists, indefinite suspension:
(1) a licensee who has been suspended for an indefinite period of time may, at any time after
complying with the conditions of reinstatement, file a petition for reinstatement with the board or
committee;
(2) the petition shall be referred to the board or committee for hearing under Subsection E of this
section; and
(3) if the motion for reinstatement is denied, no further motions for reinstatement will be considered
for a period of one year.
E. Procedure for reinstatement hearings are as follows:
(1) applications for reinstatement shall be referred to the board or committee for hearing if the
applicant meets the criteria set forth in this section;
(2) the board or committee shall schedule a hearing as soon as practical at which the applicant shall
have the burden of demonstrating that the applicant has the moral qualifications, that the applicant is
once again fit to resume the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene and that the resumption of the
applicant's practice of dentistry or dental hygiene will not be detrimental to the public interest;
(3) the board or committee shall file its findings of fact, conclusions of law and decision within ninety
days of the hearing; and
(4) the board's or committee's decision to refuse to reinstate a license shall not be reviewable except
for an abuse of discretion.
61-5A-20. Fees. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
The board and the committee shall establish a schedule of reasonable fees not to exceed the following:
Dentists Dental Hygienists
A. licensure by examination $1,500 $1,000
B. licensure by credential $3,000 $1,500
C. specialty license by examination $1,500
D. specialty license by credential $3,000
E. temporary license
48 hour $50 $50
six months $300 $200
12 months $450 $300
F. application for certification in local anesthesia $40
G. examination in local anesthesia $150
H. triennial license renewal $600 $450
I. late renewal $100 $100
J. reinstatement of license $450 $300
K. administrative fees $300 $300
L. impaired dentist or dental hygienist $150 $75
M. assistant, expanded-function, dental auxiliary or community dental health
coordinator certificate $100
N. application for certification for collaborative practice $150
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O. annual renewal for collaborative practice $50
P. application for inactive status $50
Q. triennial renewal of inactive license $90 $90
Non-dentist Owners
R. non-dentist owners license (initial) $300
S. non-dentist owners license triennial renewal $150.
61-5A-21. Disciplinary proceedings; application of Uniform Licensing Act. (Repealed
effective July 1, 2016.)
A. In accordance with the Uniform Licensing Act [61-1-1 NMSA 1978] and rules of the board, the
board and committee may fine and may deny, revoke, suspend, stipulate or otherwise limit any license or
certificate, including those of licensed non-dentist owners, held or applied for under the Dental Health
Care Act, upon findings by the board or the committee that the licensee, certificate holder or applicant:
(1) is guilty of fraud or deceit in procuring or attempting to procure a license or certificate;
(2) has been convicted of a crime punishable by incarceration in a federal prison or state penitentiary;
provided a copy of the record of conviction, certified to by the clerk of the court entering the conviction,
shall be conclusive evidence of such conviction;
(3) is guilty of gross incompetence or gross negligence, as defined by rules of the board, in the
practice of dentistry, dental hygiene or dental assisting;
(4) is habitually intemperate or is addicted to the use of habit-forming drugs or is addicted to any vice
to such degree as to render the licensee unfit to practice;
(5) is guilty of unprofessional conduct as defined by rule;
(6) is guilty of any violation of the Controlled Substances Act [30-31-1 NMSA 1978];
(7) has violated any provisions of the Dental Health Care Act or rule or regulation of the board or the
committee;
(8) is guilty of willfully or negligently practicing beyond the scope of licensure;
(9) is guilty of practicing dentistry or dental hygiene without a license or aiding or abetting the practice
of dentistry or dental hygiene by a person not licensed under the Dental Health Care Act;
(10) is guilty of obtaining or attempting to obtain any fee by fraud or misrepresentation or has
otherwise acted in a manner or by conduct likely to deceive, defraud or harm the public;
(11) is guilty of patient abandonment;
(12) is guilty of failing to report to the board any adverse action taken against the licensee by a
licensing authority, peer review body, malpractice insurance carrier or other entity as defined in rules of
the board and the committee;
(13) has had a license, certificate or registration to practice as a dentist or dental hygienist revoked,
suspended, denied, stipulated or otherwise limited in any jurisdiction, territory or possession of the
United States or another country for actions of the licensee similar to acts described in this subsection. A
certified copy of the decision of the jurisdiction taking such disciplinary action will be conclusive evidence;
or
(14) has failed to furnish the board, its investigators or its representatives with information requested
by the board or the committee in the course of an official investigation.
B. Disciplinary proceedings may be instituted by sworn complaint by any person, including a board or
committee member, and shall conform with the provisions of the Uniform Licensing Act.
C. Licensees and certificate holders shall bear the costs of disciplinary proceedings unless exonerated.
D. Any person filing a sworn complaint shall be immune from liability arising out of civil action if the
complaint is filed in good faith and without actual malice.
E. Licensees whose licenses are in a probationary status shall pay reasonable expenses for maintaining
probationary status, including but not limited to laboratory costs when laboratory testing of biological
fluids or accounting costs when audits are included as a condition of probation.
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61-5A-22. Anesthesia administration. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. The board shall establish rules or regulations pertaining to the administration of nitrous oxide
analgesia, conscious sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia by dentists.
B. The board or its agent may evaluate credentials, facilities, equipment, personnel and procedures
prior to issuing permits to allow the administration of agents that are utilized in providing analgesia,
sedation or general anesthesia and may re-evaluate the same at its discretion.
C. The board may suspend or revoke the license of any dentist who fails to comply with anesthesia
related rules or regulations of the board.
61-5A-23. Reporting of settlements and judgments; professional review actions; immunity
from civil damages. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. All entities that make payments under a policy of insurance, self-insurance or otherwise in
settlement or satisfaction of a judgment in a dental malpractice action or claim, all hospitals, all health
care entities and all professional review bodies shall report to the board all payments relating to
malpractice actions or claims arising in New Mexico and all appropriate professional review actions of
licensees.
B. No hospitals, health care entities, insurance carriers or professional review bodies required to report
under this section, which provide such information in good faith, shall be subject to suit for civil damages
as a result thereof.
C. Any hospital, health care entity, insurance carrier or professional review body failing to comply with
the reporting requirements established in this section shall be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed two
thousand dollars ($2,000).
61-5A-24. Injunction to stop unlicensed dental or dental hygiene practice. (Repealed
effective July 1, 2016.)
A. The attorney general, district attorney, the board, the committee or any citizen of any county where
any person practices dentistry or dental hygiene without possessing a valid license to do so may, in
accordance with the laws of New Mexico governing injunctions, maintain an action in the name of the
state. To enjoin such person from practicing dentistry or dental hygiene until a valid license to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene is secured and any person who has been enjoined who violates the injunction
shall be punished for contempt of court, provided that the injunction does not relieve any person
practicing dentistry or dental hygiene without a valid license from a criminal prosecution therefore as
provided by law.
B. In charging any person in a complaint for injunction, or in an affidavit, information or indictment
with practicing dentistry or dental hygiene without a valid license, it is sufficient to charge that the person
did, upon a certain day and in a certain county, engage in the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene
without a valid license, without averring any further or more particular facts concerning the same.
61-5A-25. Protected actions and communications. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. No member of the board or the committee or any ad hoc committee appointed by the board or the
committee shall bear liability or be subject to civil damages or criminal prosecutions for any action
undertaken or performed within the proper functions of the board or the committee.
B. All written and oral communication made by any person to the board or the committee relating to
actual or potential disciplinary action, which includes complaints made to the board or the committee,
shall be confidential communications and are not public records for the purposes of the Public Records
Act [14-3-1 NMSA 1978]. All data, communications and information acquired, prepared or disseminated
by the board or the committee relating to actual or potential disciplinary action or its investigation of
complaints shall not be disclosed except to the extent necessary to carry out the purposes of the board or
the committee or in a judicial appeal from the actions of the board or the committee or in a referral of
cases made to law enforcement agencies, national database clearinghouses or other licensing boards.
21
C. Information contained in complaint files is public information and subject to disclosure when the
board or the committee acts on a complaint and issues a notice of contemplated action or reaches a
settlement prior to the issuance of a notice of contemplated action.
D. No person or legal entity providing information to the board or the committee, whether as a report,
a complaint or testimony, shall be subject to civil damages or criminal prosecutions.
61-5A-26. Fund established. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. There is created in the state treasury the "board of dental health care fund".
B. All money received by the board and money collected under the Dental Health Care Act shall be
deposited with the state treasurer. The state treasurer shall credit this money to the board of dental
health care fund except money collected for the impaired assessment, which shall be held separate from
the board fund. Fees collected by the board from fines shall be deposited in the board of dental health
care fund and, at the discretion of the board and the committee, may be transferred into the impaired
dentists and dental hygienists fund.
C. Payment out of the board of dental health care fund shall be on vouchers issued and signed by the
secretary-treasurer of the board upon warrants drawn by the department of finance and administration in
accordance with the budget approved by that department.
D. All amounts paid into the board of dental health care fund are subject to the order of the board and
are to be used only for meeting necessary expenses incurred in executing the provisions and duties of
the Dental Health Care Act. All money unused at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund for
use in accordance with provisions of the Dental Health Care Act.
E. All funds that have accumulated to the credit of the board under any previous law shall be
continued for use by the board in administration of the Dental Health Care Act.
61-5A-27. Criminal Offender Employment Act. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
The provisions of the Criminal Offender Employment Act [28-2-1 NMSA 1978] shall govern any
consideration of criminal records required or permitted by the Dental Health Care Act.
61-5A-28. Temporary provision. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
Until revised, rescinded or modified by the board or committee, regulations adopted under the Dental Act
shall remain in effect upon enactment of the Dental Health Care Act and be enforced by the board or the
committee.
61-5A-29. Licensure or certification under prior law. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. Any person licensed as a dentist or hygienist under any prior laws of this state, whose license is
valid on the effective date of the Dental Health Care Act, is held to be licensed under the Dental Health
Care Act and is entitled to renewal of his license as provided in that act.
B. Any person certified under any prior laws of this state, whose certificate is valid on the effective
date of the Dental Health Care Act, is held to be certified under the Dental Health Care Act and is entitled
to renewal of his certificate as provided in that act.
61-5A-30. Termination of agency life; delayed repeal. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
The New Mexico board of dental health care is terminated on July 1, 2015 pursuant to the Sunset Act
[12-9-11 NMSA 1978]. The board shall continue to operate according to the provisions of the Dental
Health Care Act and the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act until July 1, 2016. Effective July 1,
2016, the Dental Health Care Act and the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act are repealed.
22
23
State of New Mexico
Board of Dental Health Care Practice
Statutes
Table of Contents
Article 5B
Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act
Title Page #
61-5B-1 - Short Title 24
61-5B-2 - Definitions 24
61-5B-3 - Grounds for restriction, suspension, revocation, stipulation or
other limitation of license 24
61-5B-4 - Board of dental hygienists committee 24
61-5B-5 - Examination by committee 24-25
61-5B-6 - Voluntary restriction of licensure 25
61-5B-7 Report to the board or dental hygienists committee 25-26
61-5B-8 Proceedings 26
61-5B-9 Reinstatement of license 26-27
61-5B-10 Impaired dentists and dental hygienists treatment program 27
61-5B-11 Impaired dentists and dental hygienists fund created 27
24
Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act
61-5B-1. Short title. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
Sections 31 [30] through 41 [61-5B-1 to 61-5B-11 NMSA 1978] of this act shall be cited as the "Impaired
Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act".
61-5B-2. Definitions. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
As used in the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act:
A. "board" means the New Mexico board of dental health care;
B. "dental hygienists committee" means the New Mexico dental hygienists committee;
C. "dentistry or dental hygiene" means the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene; and
D. "licensee" means a dentist or dental hygienist licensed by the board.
61-5B-3. Grounds for restriction, suspension, revocation, stipulation or other limitation of
license. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
The license of any dentist or dental hygienist to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in this state shall be
subject to restriction, suspension, revocation, stipulation or may otherwise be limited in case of inability
of the licensee to practice with reasonable skill and safety to patients by reason of one or more of the
following:
A. mental illness;
B. physical illness, including but not limited to deterioration through the aging process or loss of motor
skills;
C. habitual or excessive use or abuse of drugs, as defined in the Controlled Substances Act [30-31-1
NMSA 1978]; or
D. habitual or excessive use or abuse of alcohol.
61-5B-4. Board or dental hygienists committee; additional powers and duties as related to
the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. If the board or dental hygienists committee has reasonable cause to believe that a person licensed
to practice dentistry or dental hygiene is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety to patients
because of a condition described in the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act, the board shall
cause an examination of such licensee to be made and shall, following the examination, take appropriate
action within the provisions of the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act.
B. Examination of a licensee pursuant to an order of the board shall be conducted by an examining
committee designated by the board. Each examining committee shall be composed of two duly licensed
dentists or two duly licensed dental hygienists if the licensee is a dental hygienist and two duly licensed
physicians, one of whom shall be a psychiatrist who is knowledgeable and experienced in the field of
chemical dependency if a question of mental illness or dependency is involved. Whenever possible,
examining committee members shall be selected for their knowledge or experience in the areas of
alcoholism, chemical dependency, mental health and geriatrics and may be rehabilitated impaired
dentists, dental hygienists or physicians. In designating the members of such examining committee, the
board may consider nominations from the New Mexico dental association for the dentist member, the
New Mexico dental hygienists' association for dental hygiene members thereof and nomination from the
New Mexico medical society for the physician members thereof. No current members of the board,
dental hygienists committee or New Mexico board of medical examiners shall be designated as a member
of an examining committee.
61-5B-5. Examination by committee. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. The examining committee assigned to examine a licensee pursuant to referral by the board shall
conduct an examination of the licensee for the purpose of determining the fitness of the licensee to
practice dentistry or dental hygiene with reasonable skill and safety to patients, either on a restricted or
unrestricted basis, and shall report its findings and recommendations to the board. The findings and
recommendations shall be based on findings by the examining committee that the licensee examined
25
possesses one or more of the impairments set forth in the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act
and such impairment does, in fact, affect the ability of the licensee to skillfully and safely practice
dentistry or dental hygiene. The examining committee shall order the licensee to appear before it for
hearing and give the licensee fifteen days notice of time and place of the hearing, together with a
statement of the cause for such examination. The notice shall be served upon the licensee either
personally or by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested.
B. If the examining committee, in its discretion, deems a mental or physical examination of the
licensee necessary to its determination of the fitness of the licensee to practice, the examining committee
shall order the licensee to submit to such examination. Any person licensed to practice dentistry or
dental hygiene in this state shall, by so practicing or by making or filing an annual registration to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene in this state, be deemed to have:
(1) given consent to submit to mental or physical examination when so directed by the examining
committee; and
(2) waived all objections to the admissibility of the report of the examining committee to the board or
the dental hygienists committee on the grounds of privileged communication.
C. Any licensee who submits to a diagnostic mental or physical examination as ordered by the
examining committee shall have a right to designate an accompanying individual to be present at the
examination and make an independent report to the board.
D. Failure of a licensee to comply with an examining committee order under Subsection B of this
section to appear before it for hearing or to submit to mental or physical examination under this section
shall be reported by the examining committee to the board or dental hygienists committee and, unless
due to circumstances beyond the control of the licensee, shall be grounds for the immediate and
summary suspension by the board of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in this state until
further order of the board.
61-5B-6. Voluntary restriction of licensure. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. A licensee may request in writing to the board a restriction to practice under his existing license,
and the board and the dental hygienists committee shall have authority, if it deems appropriate, to attach
stipulations to the licensure of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene within specified
limitations and waive the commencement of any proceeding. Removal of a voluntary restriction on
licensure to practice dentistry or dental hygiene shall be subject to the procedure for reinstatement of
license. As a condition for accepting such voluntary limitation of practice, the board may require each
licensee to:
(1) agree to and accept care, counseling or treatment of physicians or other appropriate health care
providers acceptable to the board;
(2) participate in a program of education prescribed by the board; or
(3) practice under the direction of a dentist acceptable to the board for a specified period of time.
B. Subject to the provisions of the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act, a violation of any of
the conditions of the voluntary limitation of practice statement by such licensee shall be due cause for the
refusal of renewal, or the suspension or revocation, of the license by the board.
61-5B-7. Report to the board or dental hygienists committee; action. (Repealed effective
July 1, 2016.)
A. The examining committee shall report to the board or the dental hygienists committee its findings
on the examination of the licensee, the determination of the examining committee as to the fitness of the
licensee to engage in the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene with reasonable skill and safety to
patients, either on a restricted or unrestricted basis, and any intervention that the examining committee
may recommend. Such recommendation by the examining committee shall be advisory only and shall not
be binding on the board.
B. The board or dental hygienists committee may accept or reject the recommendation of the
examining committee to permit a licensee to continue to practice with or without any restriction on his
licensure to practice dentistry or dental hygiene or may refer the matter back to the examining
committee for further examination and report thereon.
26
C. In the absence of a voluntary agreement by a licensee for restriction of the licensure of the dentist
or the dental hygienist to practice dentistry or dental hygiene, any licensee shall be entitled to a hearing
before the board under and in accordance with the procedure contained in the Uniform Licensing Act [61-
1-1 NMSA 1978] and a determination on the evidence as to whether or not restriction, suspension or
revocation of licensure shall be imposed.
61-5B-8. Proceedings. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. The board may formally proceed against a licensee under the Impaired Dentists and Dental
Hygienists Act in accordance with the procedures contained in the Uniform Licensing Act [61-1-1 NMSA
1978].
B. When the licensee being considered for action is a dental hygienist, the board shall act upon
recommendation of the dental hygienists committee on all aspects of procedures in the Impaired Dentists
and Dental Hygienists Act.
C. At the conclusion of the hearing, the board or the dental hygienists committee shall make the
following findings:
(1) whether or not the licensee is impaired by one of the grounds for restriction, suspension or
revocation listed herein;
(2) whether or not such impairment does in fact limit the ability of the licensee to practice dentistry or
dental hygiene skillfully and safely;
(3) to what extent such impairment limits the ability of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental
hygiene skillfully and safely and whether the board or dental hygienists committee finds that such
impairment is such that the license should be suspended, revoked or restricted in the licensee's practice
of dentistry or dental hygiene; and
(4) if the finding recommends suspension or restriction of the ability of the licensee to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene, then the board shall make specific recommendations as to the length and
nature of the suspension or restriction and shall recommend how such suspension or restriction shall be
carried out and supervised.
D. At the conclusion of the hearing, the board or the dental hygienists committee shall make a
determination of the merits and may order one or more of the following:
(1) placement of the licensee on probation on such terms and conditions as it deems proper for the
protection of the public;
(2) suspension or restriction of the license of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene for
the duration of the licensee's impairment;
(3) revocation of the license of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene; or
(4) reinstatement of the license of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene without
restriction.
E. The board may temporarily suspend the license of any licensee without a hearing, simultaneously
with the institution of proceedings under the Uniform Licensing Act, if it finds that the evidence in support
of the determination of the examining committee is clear and convincing and that continuation in practice
would constitute an imminent danger to public health and safety.
F. Neither the record of the proceeding nor any order entered against a licensee may be used against
the licensee in any other legal proceeding except upon judicial review.
61-5B-9. Reinstatement of license. (Repealed effective July 1, 2016.)
A. A licensee whose licensure has been restricted, suspended or revoked under the Impaired Dentists
and Dental Hygienists Act, voluntarily or by action of the board, shall have a right at reasonable intervals
to petition for reinstatement of the license and to demonstrate that the licensee can resume the
competent practice of dentistry or dental hygiene with reasonable skill and safety to patients.
B. The petition shall be made in writing. If the licensee is a dental hygienist, the dental hygienists
committee shall be advised and given all information so that their recommendation can be given to the
board.
C. Action of the board on the petition shall be initiated by referral to and examination by the
examining committee.
27
D. The board may, in its discretion, upon written recommendation of the examining committee,
restore the licensure of the licensee on a general or limited basis.
61-5B-10. Impaired dentists and dental hygienists treatment program. (Repealed effective
July 1, 2016.)
A. The board has the authority to enter into an agreement with a nonprofit corporation to implement
an impaired dentists and dental hygienists treatment program.
B. For the purposes of this section, "impaired dentists and dental hygienists treatment program"
means a program of care and rehabilitation services provided by those organizations authorized by the
board to provide for the detention, intervention and monitoring of an impaired dentist or dental hygienist.
61-5B-11. Impaired dentists and dental hygienists fund created. (Repealed effective July 1,
2016.)
A. There is created an "impaired dentists and dental hygienist fund".
B. The fund shall be initially established by an assessment to all licensees as determined by the board
and the dental hygienists committee.
C. All funds received by the board for an impaired assessment, either special or at time of re-licensure,
shall be deposited with the state treasurer. The state treasurer shall credit this money to the impaired
dentists and dental hygienists fund.
D. Payments out of the fund shall be on vouchers issued and signed by the secretary-treasurer of the
board upon warrants drawn by the department of finance and administration in accordance with the
responsibilities of the board as approved by that department.
E. All amounts paid into the fund are subject to the order of the board and are to be used only for
meeting necessary expenses incurred in executing the provisions and duties of the Impaired Dentists and
Dental Hygienists Act. All money unused at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the fund for use in
accordance with provisions of the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act.
F. Licensees shall be assessed an impaired fee at the time of renewal. The amount of the fee shall be
determined by the board and the committee and shall be established to meet the need for enforcing the
Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act.
G. The fund shall be used for the purpose of administration, testing, monitoring, hearings and
consultation fees by the board or dental hygienists committee or their agent, which are necessary to
enforce the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act. It is not the purpose of the fund to pay for
treatment of impaired dentists and dental hygienists.
28
29
State of New Mexico
Board of Dental Health Care Practice
Rules and Regulations
Table of Contents
Title Page #
16.5.1 General Provisions 32-38
16.5.2 Impaired Practitioner Program 39-42
16.5.3 Mandatory Reporting Requirements 43-44
16.5.4 Emergency Licensure and Certification Provisions 45-46
16.5.5 Dentists Fees 47-48
16.5.6 Dentist Licensure by Examination 49-51
16.5.7 Dentists Temporary or Public Service Licensure 52-57
16.5.8 Dentist Licensure by Credentials 58-61
16.5.9 Non-Dentist Owners 62-64
16.5.10 Dentist Continuing Education Requirements 65-66
16.5.11 Dentist License Expiration and Renewal 67-68
16.5.12 Dentist Retirement, Inactive and Reinstatement 69-71
16.5.13 Dentists License Revocation for Non-Renewal 72-73
16.5.14 Reserved -------
16.5.15 Dentists, Anesthesia Administration 74-80
16.5.16 Dentist Disciplinary Procedures, License Revocation or Suspension
for Disciplinary Proceedings 81-85
16.5.17 Dentists and Dental Hygienists, Collaborative Practice 86-90
16.5.18 Dental Hygienist Fees 91-92
16.5.19 Dental Hygienist Licensure by Examination 93-94
16.5.20 Dental Hygienist Licensure by Credentials 95-96
16.5.21 Dental Hygienist Temporary or Public Service Licensure 97-100
30
16.5.22 Reserved -------
16.5.23 Dental Hygienist Continuing Education Requirements 101-102
16.5.24 Dental Hygienist License Expiration and Renewal 103-104
16.5.25 DH Requirements Inactive & Reinstatement 105-107
16.5.26 DH License Revocation for Non-Renewal 108-109
15.5.27 Reserved -------
16.5.28 DH Local Anesthesia Certification 110-112
16.5.29 Dental Hygienist Practice 113-115
16.5.30 DH Disciplinary Proceedings; License Revocation or Suspension
for Disciplinary Actions 116-119
16.5.31 Reserved -------
16.5.32 Dental Assistants Fees 120-121
16.5.33 Dental Assistants Requirements for Certification 122-126
16.5.34 Reserved -------
16.5.35 DA Certificate Expiration and Renewal 127-128
16.5.36 DA Continuing Education Requirements 129-130
16.5.37 DA Certificate Revocation for Non-Renewal 131-132
16.5.38 Reserved -------
16.5.39 Dental Assistant Practice and Supervision 133-134
16.5.40 Dental Assistants Disciplinary Proceedings 135-136
16.5.41 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Fees 137
16.5.42 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Requirements for Certification 138-140
16.5.43 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Certification Expiration and Renewal 141-142
16.5.44 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Continuing Education Requirements 143-144
16.5.45 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Certificate Revocation for Non-Renewal 145
16.5.46 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Practice and Supervision 146-147
16.5.47 Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary, Disciplinary Proceedings 148-149
16.5.48 RESERVED -------
16.5.49 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Fees 150
16.5.50 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Requirements for Certification 151-152
31
16.5.51 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Certification Expiration and Renewal 153-154
16.5.52 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Continuing Education Requirements 155-156
16.5.53 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Certificate Revocation for
Non-Renewal 157
16.5.54 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Practice and Supervision 158-159
16.5.55 Community Dental Health Coordinator, Disciplinary Proceedings 160-161
16.5.56 Parental Responsibility Compliance 162-163
32
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
16.5.1.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.1.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.1.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.2 SCOPE: The provisions in 16.5.1 NMAC apply to all parts of Chapter 5 and provide relevant
information to anyone affected or interested in the licensing and regulation of dentists, dental hygienists and dental
assistants.
[9-30-96; 16.5.1.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-1 through Section 61-5A-29 (1996
Repl. Pamp.). Section 16.5.1.10 NMAC is authorized by NMSA 1978 Section 10-15-1.C (1993 Repl. Pamp.)
Section 16.5.1.11 NMAC and 16.5.1.12 NMAC are authorized by NMSA 1978 Section 14-2-1 through 14-2-16
(1993 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.1.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.4 NMAC - Rn, NMAC 5.1.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a different date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.1.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.5, 12-14-00; A, 07-19-10]
16.5.1.6 OBJECTIVE: The objective of Part 1 is to set forth the provisions which apply to all of Chapter
5, and to all persons and entities affected or regulated by Chapter 5 of Title 16.
[9-30-96; 16.5.1.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.6, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Act” means the Dental Health Care Act, Sections 61-5A-1 through 61-5A-29, NMSA 1978.
B. “Assessment” means the review and documentation of the oral condition, and the recognition and
documentation of deviations from the healthy condition, without a diagnosis to determine the cause or nature of
disease or its treatment.
C. “Authorization” means written or verbal permission from a dentist to a dental hygienist, dental
assistant, or dental student to provide specific tests, treatments or regimes of care.
D. “Close personal supervision” means a New Mexico licensed dentist directly observes, instructs
and certifies in writing the training and expertise of New Mexico licensed or certified employees or staff.
E. “Consulting dentists” means a dentist who has entered into an approved agreement to provide
consultation and create protocols with a collaborating dental hygienist and, when required, to provide diagnosis and
authorization for services, in accordance with the rules of the board and the committee.
F. “CRDTS” means the central regional dental testing service, a separate and independent entity not
including any successor, which acts as a representative agent for the board and committee in providing written and
clinical examinations to test the applicant's competence to practice in New Mexico.
G. “Current patients of record” means the New Mexico licensed dentist has seen the patient in the
practice in the last 18 months.
H. “Dental hygiene-focused assessment” means the documentation of existing oral and relevant
systemic conditions and the identification of potential oral disease to develop, communicate, implement and
evaluate a plan of oral hygiene care and treatment.
I. “Dental record” means electronic, photographic, radiographic or manually written records.
J. “Diagnosis” means the identification or determination of the nature or cause of disease or
condition.
K. “Direct supervision” means the process under which an act is performed when a dentist licensed
pursuant to the Dental Health Care Act:
(1) is physically present throughout the performance of the act;
(2) orders, controls and accepts full professional responsibility for the act performed;
(3) evaluates and approves the procedure performed before the patient departs the care setting; and
33
(4) is capable of responding immediately if any emergency should arise.
L. Extenuating circumstances” are defined as a serious, physician-verified illness or death in
immediate family, or military service. The extenuating circumstances must be presented for the board’s
consideration on a case-by-case basis.
M. “General supervision” means the authorization by a dentist of the procedures to be used by a
dental hygienist, dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary, dental student, or community dental health
coordinator and the execution of the procedures in accordance with a dentist’s diagnosis and treatment plan at a time
the dentist is not physically present and in facilities as designated by the rules of the board.
N. “Impaired Act” means the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act, Sections 61-5B-1 through
61-5B-11, NMSA 1978.
O. “Indirect supervision” means that a dentist, or in certain settings a dental hygienist or dental
assistant certified in expanded functions, is present in the treatment facility while authorized treatments are being
performed by a dental hygienist, dental assistant or dental student as defined in 61-5A-3 NMSA 1978.
P. “Jurisprudence exam” means the examination given regarding the laws, rules and regulations,
which relate to the practice of dentistry, dental hygiene and dental assisting in the state of New Mexico.
Q. “Licensee” means an individual who holds a valid license to practice dentistry or dental hygiene in
New Mexico.
R. “NERB/ADEX” means the north east regional board of dental examiners, a separate and
independent entity not including any successor, which acts as a representative agent for the board and committee in
providing written and clinical examinations to test the applicant's competence to practice in New Mexico.
S. “Non-dentist owner” means an individual not licensed as a dentist in New Mexico or a corporate
entity not owned by a majority interest of a New Mexico licensed dentist that employs or contracts with a dentist or
dental hygienist to provide dental or dental hygiene services and that does not meet an exemption status as detailed
in 61-5A-5 G, NMSA 1978.
T. “Palliative procedures” means nonsurgical, reversible procedures that are meant to alleviate pain
and stabilize acute or emergent problems.
U “Professional background service” means a board designated professional background service,
which compiles background information regarding an applicant from multiple sources.
V. “Provider” means a provider of dental health care services, including but not limited to dentists,
dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
W. “Specialist” means a specialty is an area of dentistry that has been formally recognized by the
board and the American dental association as meeting the specified requirements for recognition of dental
specialists.
X. “SRTA” means the southern regional testing agency, a separate and independent entity not
including any successor, which acts as a representative agent for the board and committee in providing written and
clinical examinations to test the applicant's competence to practice in New Mexico.
Y. “Supervising dentist” means a dentist that maintains the records of a patient, is responsible for
their care, has reviewed their current medical history and for purposes of authorization, has examined that patient
within the previous 11 months or will examine that patient within 30 days of giving authorization.
Z. Supervision” means the dentist shall adequately monitor the performance of all personnel,
licensed or unlicensed, that he or she supervises. The dentist is ultimately responsible for quality patient care and
may be held accountable for all services provided by administrative and clinical individuals that the dentist
supervises.
AA. “Teledentistry” means a dentist’s use of health information technology in real time to provide
limited diagnostic treatment planning services in cooperation with another dentist, a dental hygienist, a community
health coordinator or a student enrolled in a program of study to become a dental assistant, dental hygienist or
dentist.
BB. WREB” means the western regional examining board, which acts as the representative agent for
the board and committee in providing written and clinical examinations to test the applicant's competence to practice
in New Mexico.
CC. “Written authorization” means a signed and dated prescription from a supervising dentist to a
dental hygienist to provide specific tests, treatments or regimes of care in a specified location for 30 days following
the date of signature.
[3-11-89, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 12-15-97; 16.5.1.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.7, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-01; A, 03-29-02;
A, 03-06-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-17-08; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
34
16.5.1.8 LICENSE DISPLAY: A valid license, certificates or permits must be displayed and must be
visible to the public in each place of employment or business of the licensee.
[3-14-73... 5-31-95; 16.5.1.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.8, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.9 RESPONSIBILITY OF LICENSEE OR CERTIFICATE HOLDER:
A. It is the responsibility of the dentist, dental hygienist or dental assistant to keep the board informed
of a current mailing address. All correspondence, including renewal forms, will be mailed to the last address on file.
The board assumes no responsibility for renewal applications or other correspondence not received because of a
change of address.
B. The board must be informed of current practice address (s) for all dentists and hygienists. Any
change in practice address(s) must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.
[3-11-89...5-31-95; 16.5.1.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.1.9, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.10 SEVERABILITY: If any part of these rules are held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction,
the remaining provisions of the rules shall remain in force and effect, unless otherwise determined by a court of
competent jurisdiction.
[4-10-81...9-30-96; 16.5.1.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.10, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.11 TELEPHONE CONFERENCES: As authorized by Section 10-15-1,C of the Open Meetings
Act, NMSA 1978, when it is difficult or impossible for a member of the board or committee to attend a meeting in
person, the member may participate through a conference telephone. Each member participating by conference
telephone must be identified when speaking, all participants must be able to hear each other at the same time and
members of the public attending the meeting must be able to hear any member of the board or committee who
speaks during the meeting.
[5-31-95; 16.5.1.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.11, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.12 PUBLIC RECORDS: Except as provided herein and except as otherwise provided by law, all
applications, pleadings, petitions and motions are matters of public record at the time of filing with the board. Upon
notification of the defendant, the notice of contemplated action, or the pre notice of contemplated action settlement
agreed upon prior to the issuance of an notice of contemplated action and the information contained in the complaint
file becomes a public record and subject to disclosure. With the exemption of voluntarily admission to a monitored
treatment program shall not be public record. (Refer to 61-5A-25, NMSA 1978.)
[4-17-92...5-31-95; 16.5.1.12 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.12, 12-14-00; A, 03-06-05]
16.5.1.13 INSPECTION OF PUBLIC RECORDS: The board operates in compliance with the Inspection
of Public Records Act, NMSA 1978 Sections 14-2-1 through 14-2-16. The board administrator is the custodian of
the board’s records.
[4-17-92...5-31-95; 16.5.1.13 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.13, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.14 NON-PUBLIC RECORDS: The following records are considered confidential and are not
subject to public inspection:
A. letters of reference, if applicable;
B. medical reports and/or records of chemical dependency, physical or mental examinations or
treatment as outlined in the rules governing the impaired practitioner program;
C. examination scores;
D. the contents of any examination used to test for an individual's knowledge or competence;
E. investigative files;
F. written and oral communication relating to actual or potential disciplinary action, including
complaints; and
G. matters of opinion.
[4-17-92...5-31-95; 16.5.1.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.14, 12-14-00]
16.5.1.15 GUIDELINES FOR APPROVAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION:
A. Approved courses and providers. The following providers and courses are approved for
continuing education credits. Professional training programs used by dental assistants for certification preparation in
35
expanded functions are considered to be “approved training programs.” The credit hours for approved training
programs may also be used to meet continuing education requirements such as:
(1) scientific meetings or sessions sponsored or recognized by a local, state, regional, national, or
international dental, dental hygiene, dental assisting or medical related professional organization;
(2) any dental related course sponsored by an institution accredited by the United States department
of education;
(3) courses that are primarily in relationship to maximizing income, billing, or marketing in the dental
or dental hygiene practice shall be limited to eight hours per triennial period;
(4) courses presented by approved study clubs as further defined in Subsection B of 16.5.1.15
NMAC;
(5) on-line and self-study as further defined in Subsection C of 16.5.1.15 NMAC;
(6) original presentation by a licensee who has submitted to the board an outline, date, place, and
sponsor of the presentation; a maximum of eight hours will be allowed each triennial period in this category;
(7) any course not sponsored by a recognized provider may be approved by the secretary-treasurer or
delegate of the board; the application for approval must include the course outline, date, location, hours, names and
qualifications of presenters;
(8) medical education courses that are accredited by the American council for continuing medical
education (ACCME) shall be limited to eight hours per triennial period;
(9) examining board credits shall be limited to 20 hours per triennial period; and
(10) a non-board or non-committee licensee volunteering for the board or committee may receive up
to 10 hours of continuing education for board approved activities; including serving as a hearing officer,
investigator, mentor, or monitor.
B. Approved study clubs. The board may approve study clubs which meet the following criteria:
(1) composed of not less than five licensees with elected officers, written bylaws, and regular
meetings;
(2) organized for the purpose of scientific study;
(3) the approved club must keep records of continuing education information or material presented
the number of hours and the members in attendance; films, cassettes, or similar media produced or distributed by
approved providers may be used; guest speakers may also be used to present educational material.
C. Allowable on-line, webinars, or self-study.
(1) A self-study course of instruction designed to directly enhance the licensee’s or certificate
holder’s knowledge, skill, or competence in providing care to the dental consumers.
(2) A course that includes a post study course examination must be completed and returned for
grading by the course provider.
(3) The hours of credit must be listed on the certificate.
(4) A maximum of 30 credits per triennial period will be allowed in the category of on-line, webinar,
or self-study.
(5) A license or certificate holder may take the board’s open book jurisprudence examination, up to
once a year, and be granted three hours of continuing education credit for successfully passing the exam with a score
of 75% or above. There will be a $25 fee for the exam to cover the cost of handling.
(6) Basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is not allowed thru a self-study
course, a hands-on course is required.
D. Credit hours.
(1) One hour of credit will be granted for every hour of contact instruction. This credit shall apply to
either academic or clinical instruction. Eight hours shall be the maximum number of continuing education credits
granted in a single day.
(2) Courses which are presented in institutions of higher education for the purpose of receiving a
degree, advanced degree or certificate will earn the licensee or certificate holder 10 hours for every semester credit
hour assigned a course as specified in the catalogue of the institution presenting the course.
E. Courses not allowed. Courses dealing largely with money management, personal finances or
personal business matters, and courses in basic educational or cultural subjects that are not taught in direct
relationship to dental care may not be used to fulfill continuing education requirements.
F. Verification of course attendance. The following documents, or combination of documents, may
be used to verify attendance/participation in the required continuing education:
(1) course certificate with the course title, content, presenter, sponsor and units/hours;
(2) pamphlet of course with same information as requested on certificate along with canceled check;
36
(3) course attendance sheet submitted from the sponsor;
(4) course code or statement of attendance from presenter or sponsor of licensee attendance;
(5) for out of state courses and meetings when certificates or sign-in sheets are not available, the
licensee may provide a copy of the registration form, with a copy of courses in printed form which were offered,
identify the ones attended, along with information regarding travel and lodging accommodations for the meeting;
and
(6) licensee is responsible for maintaining records of all CEUs for one year following the renewal
cycle.
[11-21-75, 5-21-93, 5-31-95; 3-11-89, 9-30-96, 12-15-97, 1-1-99; 16.5.1.15 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.1.15,
12-14-00; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.1.16 CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF BLOODBORNE INFECTIONS: The following rules
are enacted to prevent transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B infectious state (i.e.
acute infection and chronic carriers only) (HBV), the hepatitis C virus (HCV), and other blood borne infections.
A. Requirements for providers. Any provider licensed or certified by the New Mexico board of
dental health care must comply with the guidelines established in this rule. A provider who fails to use appropriate
infection control techniques and sterilization procedures to protect patients may be subject to disciplinary action by
the board.
B. Infection control as a standard of care. In offices and facilities providing dental services,
compliance with the following policies and procedures are required to further reduce the low risk of infection:
(1) implementation of policies and procedures to minimize occupational exposure to potentially
infectious materials (e.g. blood); guidelines or recommendations of the American dental association, American
dental hygienists’ association, center for disease control, and the occupational safety and health administration must
be followed;
(2) strict adherence to infection control practices and universal barrier precautions are mandatory in
all dental care settings and shall include sterilization of instruments and hand pieces, after each use, by any
acceptable sterilization technique as currently recognized by the center for disease control; and
(3) policies and procedures must be implemented to report and manage patient and/or provider
exposure to blood; affected individuals must be notified when exposure may constitute a significant risk of
transmission of blood borne infection; the notification must include the nature of possible infection, but need not
include the identity of the provider should the provider be the known source of infection.
C. Infection control training. All providers shall have formal training in infection control techniques.
Training is a requirement for licensure, as well as for renewal of all licenses and certificates. The course must be
approved in accordance with Section 16.5.1.15 NMAC or sponsored by the occupational safety and health
administration.
D. Evaluation of provider with blood borne infection.
(1) Counseling and testing recommended. The board and committee strongly recommend counseling
and testing of any provider for HIV, HBV, HCV and other blood borne infections.
(2) Evaluation of individual cases. Providers who have transmissible blood borne infections and who
perform invasive procedures which might cause increased risk of transmission are strongly urged to submit to a
voluntary evaluation process established by the New Mexico department of health. Individual evaluations
conducted under the auspices of the New Mexico department of health will be strictly confidential unless that
agency recommends practice restrictions. The New Mexico department of health will notify the board and/or
committee of recommended practice restrictions. Any violation of practice restrictions will be considered grounds
for disciplinary action by the board and committee.
(3) Impairment evaluation. If a dental health care provider licensed or certified by the board has a
functional impairment due to blood borne infection or other medical impairment, they must contact the impaired
committee of the board.
E. Confidentiality for dental health care workers.
(1) The board and committee recognize providers are not required to disclose blood borne infections
to patients or employers unless they cannot perform the essential duties of their job or practice, or unless the
provider poses a danger to patient safety.
(2) Any retrospective studies of New Mexico providers shall be carried out under the guidance and
direction of the New Mexico department of health.
[4-12-92...5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.1.16 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.16, 12-14-00]
37
16.5.1.17 BOARD OF DENTAL HEALTH CARE:
A. Officers. The board shall elect a chair, vice-chair, and secretary-treasurer at the first regularly
scheduled meeting in each calendar year.
B. Committee members. Two dentist members and two public members from the board shall be
elected to serve as members of the dental hygienists committee at the first regularly scheduled meeting in each
calendar year.
[3-14-73...5-31-95; 16.5.1.17 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.17, 12-14-00; A, 03-06-05; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.1.18 DENTAL HYGIENIST COMMITTEE:
A. Officers. The committee shall elect a chair, vice-chair, and secretary at the first regularly
scheduled meeting in each calendar year.
B. Board members. Two dental hygienists members of the committee shall be elected to serve as
members of the board of dental health care by a simple majority vote at the first regularly scheduled meeting in the
calendar year.
[11-5-87...5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.1.18 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.1.18, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.1.19 BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS: The board and committee shall meet at least four
times a year, regular meetings shall not be more than 120 days apart, and only two of those meetings may be public
rules hearings.
[16.5.1.19 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.1.20 U.S. CITIZENSHIP OR LEGAL RESIDENT: Any person requesting a license to practice
dentistry, dental hygiene or certificate to practice as a dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary or
community dental health coordinator must be a United States citizen or legal resident with a valid social security
number.
[16.5.1.20 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
16.5.1.21 CONSULTING SERVICES; CLAIMS REVIEW BY INSURANCE COMPANIES: A
dentist who reviews insurance claims for New Mexico licensed dentists who are treating patients in New Mexico
must be a current New Mexico licensed dentist who is a resident and in good standing. All insurance claims that
have been reviewed by a consultant dentist and subsequently denied or offer an alternate treatment plan must
identify the consultant by their name and New Mexico license number.
[16.5.1.21 NMAC - N, 06-14-12]
16.5.1.22 LEGAL EXPERT WITNESS REQUIREMENTS: A dentist who testifies in a malpractice
case(s) or legal case(s) involving New Mexico licensed dentists and procedures performed in New Mexico must also
be a current New Mexico licensed dentist and in good standing.
[16.5.1.22 NMAC - N, 06-14-12]
16.5.1.23 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY ACT; DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY: The authority of
the New Mexico board of dental health care to issue a notice of contemplated action, to refer cases in which a notice
of contemplated action has been issued for administrative prosecution, to hold hearings and issue decision and
orders to any licensee or applicant for licensure whose name appears on the certified list issued by the New Mexico
department of human services, as provided in NMSA 1978, 40-5A-1, et seq., may be delegated to the New Mexico
regulation and licensing department. This section shall not be construed to deprive the board of its authority to issue
a notice of contemplated action for any violation of the Parental Responsibility Act, to refer a case for administrative
prosecution, hold a hearing or issue a decision and order for any violation of the Parental Responsibility Act.
[16.5.1.23 NMAC - N, 06-14-12]
History of 16.5.1 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
38
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
Article I, Board of Dentistry, filed 03-11-81;
Rules 1.1-1.8, Dental Hygiene Committee Rules and Regulations, filed 11-20-87
BOD Rule 1, Board of Dentistry, filed 02-09-89;
BOD Rule 14, Public Records Policy, filed 03-13-92;
BOD Rule 15, The Control and Prevention of the Transmission of Blood borne Infections in Dental Offices and
Facilities, filed 09-16-92;
BODHC Rule 1-95, General Provisions, filed 05-05-95;
BODHC Rule 2-95, Definitions, filed 05-05-95;
BODHC Rule 3-95, Guidelines for Approved Continuing Education, filed 05-05-95;
BODHC Rule 4-95, Control and Prevention of the Transmission of Blood borne Infections, filed 05-05-95;
BODHC Rule 5-95, Savings Clause, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material:
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry (filed 2-12-73) repealed by Article XIV,
filed 3/12/1981.
Other History:
BODHC Rule 1-95, General Provisions; BODHC Rule 2-95, Definitions; BODHC Rule 3-95, Guidelines for
Approved Continuing Education; BODHC Rule 4-95, Control and Prevention of the Transmission of Blood borne
Infections; BODHC Rule 5-95, Savings Clause all (filed 05-05-95) were renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16 NMAC 5.1, General Provisions, effective 09-30-96.
16 NMAC 5.1, General Provisions (filed 09-17-96) was renumbered, reformatted and amended to 16.5.1 NMAC,
General Provisions, effective 12-14-00.
39
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 2 IMPAIRED PRACTITIONER PROGRAM
16.5.2.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.2.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 2 of Chapter 5 apply to all dentists and dental hygienists who
hold a current license or retired license or who are applying for licensure in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 2 is promulgated pursuant to the Impaired Dentists and
Hygienists Act, Sections 61-5B-1 through 61-5B-11 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.2.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.6 OBJECTIVE: To clarify the procedures identified in the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.8 COMPLAINTS: Anyone may file a complaint with the board if they have reasonable cause to
believe a dentist or dental hygienist is impaired by:
A. mental illness;
B. physical illness, including but not limited to deterioration through the aging process or loss of
motor skills;
C. habitual or excessive use or abuse of drugs, as defined in the Controlled Substances Act; or
D. habitual or excessive use or abuse of alcohol.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.8, 04/17/06]
16.5.2.9 PROCESS: Complaints received in the board office that allege impaired practice will be
processed in the following manner.
A. The complaint committee of the board shall review the complaint to determine if the board has
jurisdiction over the matter and if the complaint may have merit.
B. If the complaint committee has reasonable cause to believe that a person licensed to practice
dentistry or dental hygiene is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety to patients because of a condition
listed in 16.5.2.8 NMAC, the committee shall refer the matter to the board.
C. The board shall designate an examining committee consisting of two licensed dentists or two
licensed hygienists, if the licensee is a dental hygienist and two licensed physicians, one of whom shall be a
psychiatrist who is knowledgeable and experienced in the field of chemical dependency if a question of mental
illness or dependency is involved.
(1) The board may consider nominations from the New Mexico dental association for dentist
members or the New Mexico dental hygienists’ association for dental hygienist members of the examining
committee; the board may consider nominations from the New Mexico medical society for the physician members
of the committee; and
(2) no current member of the board or dental hygienists committee shall be a member of an examining
committee.
D. The examining committee shall examine a licensee referred by the board to determine the
licensee’s fitness to practice dentistry or dental hygiene with reasonable skill and safety to patients, on a restricted or
unrestricted basis. The committee may recommend intervention as necessary.
40
(1) The examining committee shall order the licensee to appear before it for hearing. The committee
shall give the licensee 15 days notice of the time and place for the hearing and the reason for the examination.
Notice shall be served personally or by registered or certified mail with return receipt requested;
(2) if the examining committee feels that a mental or physical examination of the licensee is
necessary to determine the licensee’s fitness to practice, the committee shall order the licensee to submit to the
examination;
(a) a person licensed to practice dentistry or dental hygiene gives consent to submit to a mental
or physical examination when directed to do so by the committee by practicing dentistry or dental hygiene or filing
an annual registration;the licensee also waives objections on the grounds of privileged communication to the
admissibility of the report of the examining committee to the board or dental hygienists committee; and
(b) a licensee who submits to a diagnostic mental or physical examination as ordered by the
examining committee has a right to designate an individual to be present at the examination and make an
independent report to the board or dental hygienists committee;
(3) failure of a licensee to appear for an examining committee hearing or submit to a mental or
physical examination shall be reported to the board or dental hygienists committee; this may be grounds for the
immediate and summary suspension of the licensee’s licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene unless the
failure is due to circumstances beyond the licensee’s control; the suspension remains in effect until further order of
the board;
(4) the examining committee shall report its findings and recommendations to the board.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.9, 04/17/06; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.2.10 VOLUNTARY RESTRICTION OF LICENSE: A licensee may request a restriction to practice
under his/her license. The request must be in writing to the board or the dental hygienists committee. The board or
the dental hygienists committee has the authority to attach stipulations to the licensee’s licensure, if appropriate and
to waive commencement of any proceedings.
A. As a condition for accepting a voluntary limitation, the board may require a licensee to:
(1) agree to and accept care, counseling or treatment of physicians or other appropriate health care
providers acceptable to the board; and
(2) participate in a program of education prescribed by the board; or
(3) practice under the direction of a dentist acceptable to the board for a specified period of time.
B. A violation of any of the conditions of the voluntary limitation of practice by the licensee shall be
cause for the refusal of renewal, or the suspension or revocation of the license by the board.
C. Removal of a voluntary restriction on a license is subject to the procedure for reinstatement of a
license.
[9/30/96; 16.5.2.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.2.10, 04/17/06; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.2.11 ACTION ON THE REPORT OF THE EXAMINING COMMITTEE: The recommendations
by the examining committee are advisory and are not binding on the board. The board or the dental hygienists
committee may accept or reject a recommendation by the committee to permit a licensee to practice dentistry or
dental hygiene with or without any restrictions or may refer the matter back to the examining committee for further
examination or report. In the absence of a voluntary agreement for restriction of her/her license, a licensee shall be
entitled to a hearing before the board in accordance with the procedures in the Uniform Licensing Act and a
determination on the evidence as to whether or not restriction, suspension or revocation of licensure shall be
imposed.
[16.5.2.11 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.4.2.12 PROCEEDINGS: The board may proceed formally against a licensee under the Impaired
Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act in accordance with the procedures contained in the Uniform Licensing Act.
When the licensee is a dental hygienist, the board shall act upon the recommendation of the dental hygienists
committee on all procedures in the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act.
A. At the conclusion of a hearing, the board shall make the following findings:
(1) whether or not the licensee is impaired by one of the conditions listed in 16.5.2.8 NMAC;
(2) whether or not such impairment does in fact limit the licensee’s ability to practice dentistry or
dental hygiene skillfully and safely;
41
(3) to what extent such impairment limits the licensee’s ability to practice dentistry or dental hygiene
skillfully and safely and whether the board or the dental hygienists committee finds that the impairment is such that
the license should be suspended, revoked or restricted; and
(4) if the finding recommends suspension or restriction, then the board shall make specific
recommendations as to the length and nature of the suspension or restriction and how it shall be carried out and
supervised.
B. In addition to the findings listed in Subsection A of 16.4.2.12 NMAC, at the conclusion of a
hearing, the board or the dental hygienists committee shall make a determination of the merits and may order one or
more of the following:
(1) placement of the licensee on probation on such terms and conditions as it deems proper for the
protection of the public;
(2) suspension or restriction of the license of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene for
the duration of the licensee’s impairment;
(3) revocation of the license of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene; or
(4) reinstatement of the license of the licensee to practice dentistry or dental hygiene without
restriction.
C. The board may temporarily suspend the license of any licensee without a hearing, simultaneously
with the institution of proceedings under the Uniform Licensing Act if it finds that the evidence in support of the
determination of the examining committee is clear and convincing and that the licensees continuation in practice
would constitute an imminent danger to public health and safety.
D. Neither the record of the proceedings nor any order entered against a licensee may be used against
the licensee in other legal proceeding except upon judicial review.
[16.5.2.12 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.2.13 DISCIPLINARY ACTION: No action or examination or proceedings under the Impaired
Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act precludes the board from investigating or acting simultaneously, in its sole
discretion, under the Dental Health Care Act.
[16.5.2.13 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.2.14 REINSTATEMENT OF LICENSE: A licensee whose license has been restricted, suspended or
revoked under the Impaired Dentists of Dental Hygienists Act, voluntarily or by action of the board, shall have a
right at reasonable intervals to petition for reinstatement of the license and to demonstrate that the licensee can
resume the competent practice of dentistry or dental hygiene with reasonable skill and safety to patients.
A. The licensee shall make the petition in writing. If the licensee is a dental hygienist, the dental
hygienists committee shall be advised and given all information so that its recommendation can be given to the
board.
B. Once the board receives a licensee’s petition for reinstatement, it shall be referred to the
examination committee for an examination of the licensee.
C. The board, in its discretion, upon written recommendation of the examination committee, may
restore the license of the licensee on a general or limited basis.
[16.5.2.14 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.2.15 DISCIPLINARY ACTION: No action or examination or proceedings under the Impaired
Dentists and Dental Hygienists Act precludes the board from investigating or acting simultaneously, in its sole
discretion, under the Dental Health Care Act.
[16.5.2.14 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.2 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
BODHC 6-95, Impaired Practitioner Program, filed 7/31/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
42
BODHC 6-95, Impaired Practitioner Program (filed 7/31/95) was renumbered, reformatted, amended and replaced
by 16 NMAC 5.2, Impaired Practitioner Program, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.2, Impaired Practitioner Program (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended and replaced by
16.5.2 NMAC, Impaired Practitioner Program, effective 04/17/06.
43
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 3 MANDATORY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
16.5.3.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.3.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 3 of Chapter 5 apply to all dentists and dental hygienists licensed
to practice in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Sections 61-5A-21 and 61-5A-23 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl.
Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.3.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish mandatory reporting requirements for adverse events and incidents
against licensed dentists and dental hygienists.
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.3.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.8 ADVERSE EVENTS AND INCIDENTS WHICH MUST BE REPORTED BY THE
LICENSEE: As a condition of licensure, any licensee who seeks or holds an active license, or temporary or public
service license in New Mexico, or a retired licensee who seeks to reactivate their license within three years after
retirement, must report the following adverse events and incidents in a written report to the board office within thirty
days of that event or incident:
A. conviction of a felony or misdemeanor, other than a traffic violation;
B. any payment in settlement of a claim, or satisfaction of judgment, in a dental malpractice action
personally or by a third party;
C. any professional review action in which membership status in a health care facility is revoked or
suspended; or
D. discipline by any other state licensing authority;
E. any known morbidity or mortality arising as a direct result of examination, prescription, diagnosis
or treatment by a licensee which results in hospitalization or treatment of the patient by emergency personnel.
[5/31/95, 12/15/97; 16.5.3.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.8, 04/17/06; A, 07/19/10; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.3.9 DISPOSITION OF REPORTS: The reporting of the incidents or events listed in Section 8 of
this part shall be maintained in a separate file and shall not be disclosed except as provided by law. Information
contained in this report may be used by the board, or its investigators, to establish to the satisfaction of the board that
the licensees is competent, is of good moral character, and continues to practice in a professional manner to the
standards of care expected of its licensees.
[5/31/95; 9/30/96; 16.5.3.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.9, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.10 USE OF REPORTS: The board at its discretion may further evaluate, or investigate
circumstances leading to the incident or event, and for good cause, or for the proper protection of the public initiate
disciplinary action against the licensee in accordance with procedures contained in the Uniform Licensing Act, or
evaluate the licensee’s ability to practice with reasonable skill and safety to patients in accordance with procedures
contained in the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act.
44
[5/31/95; 9/30/96; 16.5.3.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.10, 04/17/06]
16.5.3.11 VIOLATIONS: Violations of the provisions of Part 3 of Chapter 5 may result in suspension or
revocation of the license to practice as a dentist in accordance with NMSA 1978 61-5A-21.
[5/31/95; 9/30/96; 16.5.3.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.3.11, 04/17/06]
HISTORY OF 16.5.3 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
BOD Rule 16, Mandatory Reporting of Adverse Events and Incidents, filed 2/14/94.
BODHC Rule DS 10-95, Dentists, Mandatory Reporting, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DS 10-95, Dentists, Mandatory Reporting (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16 NMAC 5.3, Mandatory Reporting Requirements, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.3, Mandatory Reporting Requirements (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended and replaced
by 16.5.3 NMAC, Mandatory Reporting Requirements, effective 04/17/06.
45
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 4 EMERGENCY LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS
16.5.4.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.4.1 NMAC - N, 04/17/06]
16.5.4.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.4 NMAC apply to all parts of Chapter 5 and provide relevant
information to any person who qualifies to obtain a license or certification under the provisions for emergency
licensure in New Mexico.
[16.5.4.2 NMAC - N, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.4.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-1 through Section 61-5A-30 (1996
Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.4.3 NMAC - N, 04/17/06]
16.5.4.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.4.4 NMAC - N, 04/17/06]
16.5.4.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: 04/17/06, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.4.5 NMAC - N, 04/17/06]
16.5.4.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish rules to govern the emergency licensure or certification for dentists,
dental hygienists, dental assistants, expanded function dental auxiliary, and community dental health coordinators
affected by a declared disaster.
[16.5.4.6 NMAC - N, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.4.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.4.8 REQUIREMENTS FOR EMERGENCY LICENSURE:
A. Dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, expanded function dental auxiliary, and community
dental health coordinators currently licensed or certified and in good standing, or otherwise meeting the
requirements for New Mexico licensure or certification in a state in which a federal disaster has been declared, may
be licensed or certified in New Mexico during the four months following the declared disaster at no cost upon
satisfying the following requirements:
(1) receipt by the board of a completed application which has been signed and notarized and which is
accompanied by proof of identity, which may include a copy of a driver’s license, passport or other photo
identification issued by a governmental entity;
(2) licensing qualifications and documentation requirements 16.5.6 NMAC, 16.5.7 NMAC, 16.5.8
NMAC for Dentists, 16.5.19 NMAC, 16.5.20 NMAC, 16.5.21 NMAC for Dental Hygienists, 16.5.33 NMAC for
Dental Assistants 16.5.42 NMAC for Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary and 16.5.50 NMAC for Community
Dental Health Coordinators;
(3) other required information and documentation will be the name and address of employer, copy of
diploma, copy of current active license or certificate in good standing in another state, or verification of licensure,
copy of DEA license if applicable; a license or certificate will not be granted without a practice location; the board
will query the national practitioners databank, American association of dental examiners and other state dental
boards where the practitioner has ever held a license or certificate; if any or all of this information or documents are
not available or destroyed in a disaster, an affidavit certifying this will be required.
B. The board may waive the following requirements for licensure:
(1) application fee;
(2) background check by a professional background information service; and
(3) transcripts from an ADA accredited program.
C. The board may waive the specific forms required under the requirements for licensure or
certification if the applicant is unable to obtain documentation from the federal declared disaster areas.
D. Nothing in this section shall constitute a waiver of the requirements for licensure or certification
for dentists as required in 16.5.6 NMAC, 16.5.7 NMAC, 16.5.8 NMAC; dental hygienists as required in 16.5.19
46
NMAC, 16.5.20 NMAC, 16.5.21 NMAC; dental assistants as required in 16.5.33 NMAC; expanded function dental
auxiliary as required in 16.5.42 NMAC and community dental health coordinator as required in 16.5.50 NMAC.
E. Licenses and certifications issued under the emergency provision shall expire four months,
following the date of issue, unless the board or an agent of the board approves a renewal application. Application
for renewal shall be made 30 days prior to the date of expiration and may be renewed no more than once. The
applicant must obtain a permanent or temporary license or certification within eight months of the issuance of the
initial emergency license or certificate. The board reserves the right to request additional documentation, including
but not limited to recommendation forms and work experience verification forms prior to approving license or
certification renewal. The board will renew an emergency license or certificate for a period of four months for the
following renewal fees:
(1) dentists $100.00 emergency license renewal fee;
(2) dental hygienists $ 50.00 emergency license renewal fee;
(3) dental assistants $ 10.00 emergency certificate renewal fee;
(4) expanded function dental auxiliary $ 10.00 emergency certificate renewal fee;
(5) community dental health coordinator $ 10.00 emergency certificate renewal fee.
F. Licensees issued a license or certificate under the emergency provision are subject to all
provisions of the Dental Health Care Act, Article 5A and the rules and regulations, Title 16 Chapter 5, specifically
the disciplinary proceedings NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-21.
[16.5.4.8 NMAC - N, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07; A, 07/17/08; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.4.9 EMERGENCY LICENSE TERMINATION:
A. The emergency license or certification shall terminate upon the following circumstances:
(1) the issuance of a permanent or temporary license for dentists as required in 16.5.6 NMAC, 16.5.7
NMAC, 16.5.8 NMAC; dental hygienists as required in 16.5.19 NMAC, 16.5.20 NMAC, 16.5.21 NMAC; dental
assistants as required in 16.5.33 NMAC; expanded function dental auxiliary as required in 16.5.42 NMAC and
community dental health coordinators as required in 16.5.50 NMAC; or
(2) proof that the emergency license or certificate holder has engaged in fraud deceit;
misrepresentation in procuring or attempting to procure a license or certificate under this section.
B. Termination of an emergency license or certificate shall not preclude application for permanent
licensure or certification.
[16.5.4.9 NMAC - N, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.4 NMAC: [RESERVED]
47
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 5 DENTISTS, FEES
16.5.5.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.5.1, 06-14-01]
16.5.5.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.5 NMAC apply to all applicants for licensure; to active, retired,
expired and suspended licensees; and to anyone who requests a list or labels of licensed dentists, multiple copies of
the law or rules, or copies of public records.
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.5.2, 06-14-01]
16.5.5.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.5 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-20 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.5.3, 06-14-01]
16.5.5.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.5.4, 06-14-01]
16.5.5.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.5.5, 06-14-01; A, 04-17-06]
16.5.5.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish fees to generate revenue adequate to fund the cost of program
administration.
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.5.6, 06-14-01]
16.5.5.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9-30-96; 16.5.5.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.5.7, 06-14-01]
16.5.5.8 FEES:
A. All fees are non-refundable.
B. Application for licensure by examination fee is $600, which includes the initial licensing period.
C. Application for licensure by credential fee is $850, which includes the initial licensing period.
D. An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the jurisprudence exam must submit an
additional fee of $100 to re-take the exam.
E. Triennial renewal fee for all dental licensees is $550.
(1) Impaired fee is $30 per triennial renewal period plus renewal fee.
(2) Late renewal fee of $100 after July 1 through September 1 plus renewal and impaired fees.
(3) Cumulative late fee of $10 per day from August 1 to the date of the postmark or hand-delivery to
the board office plus renewal, late and impaired fees.
F. Triennial renewal fee for inactive license is $90.
G. Temporary license fees:
(1) forty-eight hour license, application fee of $50, license fee of $50;
(2) six month license, application fee of $100, license fee of $200;
(3) twelve month license, application fee of $100, license fee of $300.
H. Anesthesia permit fees:
(1) nitrous oxide permit fee is $25;
(2) conscious sedation I permit fee is $25;
(3) conscious sedation II permit fee is $300;
(4) deep sedation and general anesthesia permit fee is $300.
I. Reinstatement fee is $400.
J. Application for licensure for inactive status is $50.
K. Non-dentist owner fees.
(1) Application for licensure fee is $300, which includes the initial licensing period.
(2) Triennial renewal fee of $150.
(3) Late renewal fee of $100 after July 1 through September 1 plus renewal fee.
48
(4) Cumulative late fee of $10 per day from August 1 to the date of the postmark or hand-delivery to
the board office plus renewal and late fee.
L. Administrative and duplication fees:
(1) duplicate license fee is $25;
(2) multiple copies of the statute or rules are $10 each;
(3) copy fees are $0.25 per page;
(4) list of current dental licensees is $300; an annual list of current licensees is available to the
professional association upon request at no cost; and
(5) mailing labels of current dental licensees is $300.
[10-21-70, 3-14-73, 4-11-81, 3-7-88, 4-12-92, 3-16-94, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 12-15-97, 5-28-99, 8-16-99; 16.5.5.8
NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.5.8, 06-14-01; A, 5-31-02, A, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06 A, 07-16-07; A, 07-17-08; A,
06-10-09]
HISTORY of 16.5.5 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 03-11-81;
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 01-12-82;
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 03-30-82;
BOD Rule 4, Licensing of Dentists, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DS 6-95, Dentistry, Fees, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.5, Dentists, Fees, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.5, Dentists, Fees, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to 16.5.5 NMAC,
Dentists, Fees, effective 06-14-01.
49
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 6 DENTISTS, LICENSURE BY EXAMINATION
16.5.6.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.6.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.6.1, 06-14-01]
16.5.6.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.6 NMAC apply to all applicants for licensure by examination as
a general dentist or specialty practitioner.
[9-30-96; 16.5.6.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.2, 06-14-01]
16.5.6.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.6 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-12 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.6.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.3, 06-14-01]
16.5.6.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.6.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.4, 06-14-01]
16.5.6.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: June 14, 2001, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.6.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.5, 06-14-01; A, 04-17-06]
16.5.6.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for application for licensure as a dentist by
examination.
[9-30-96; 16.5.6.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.6, 06-14-01]
16.5.6.7 DEFINITIONS: For the purposes of these rules, “Dental Public Health” is specialty practice
focused on preventing and controlling dental diseases and promoting dental health through organized community
efforts. Since the diplomate examination does not test clinical skills, dentists licensed based on diplomate status
shall not practice clinical dentistry.
[3-16-94, 9-30-96; 16.5.6.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.7, 06-14-01]
16.5.6.8 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR GENERAL PRACTICE LICENSE: Each
applicant for a license to practice dentistry by examination must possess the following qualifications:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental school as defined in 61-5A-12 A;
B. successfully completed the dental national board examination as defined in 61-5A-12 A;
C. passed a WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, SRTA; or other clinical examination approved by the
board; the results of the clinical examination are valid in New Mexico for a period not to exceed five years:
(1) the applicant shall apply directly to WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, or SRTA for examination,
and
(2) results of the clinical examination must be sent directly to the board office; and
D. completed the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent; the applicant shall schedule
the exam through the board office;
E. the board requires a level III background status report from a board designated professional
background service for new graduates, and a level II background status report from a board designated professional
background service for an applicant who has been in practice with experience; application for this service will be
included with other application materials; the applicant will apply and pay fees directly to a board designated
professional background service to initiate this service.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 12-15-97; 16.5.6.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.6.8, 06-14-01; A, 3-29-02, A, 07-16-
07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.6.9 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIALTY LICENSE: Each applicant for a
license to practice a dental specialty by examination must possess the following qualifications. Individuals licensed
to practice a dental specialty shall be limited to practice only in that specialty area:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental school as defined in 61-5A-12 A; and
B. a postgraduate degree or certificate from an accredited dental school or approved residency
program as defined in 61-5A-12 E in one of the following specialty areas:
50
(1) dental public health,
(2) endodontics,
(3) oral and maxillofacial surgery,
(4) orthodontics and dento-facial orthopedics,
(5) oral pathology,
(6) pediatric dentistry,
(7) periodontology,
(8) prosthodontics, or
(9) other specialties approved by the American dental association.
C. successfully completed the dental national board examination as defined in 61-5A-12 A;
D. passed a WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, or SRTA specialty examination; the results of the exam
are valid in New Mexico for a period not to exceed five years; examination results must be sent directly to the board
office;
E. an applicant in any specialty defined above for which there is no WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX,
or SRTA specialty examination may substitute diplomate status for the examination;
F. completed the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent; the applicant shall schedule
the exam through the board office; and
G. the board requires a level II background status report from a board designated professional
background service; application for this service will be included with other application materials; the applicant will
apply and pay fees directly to a board designated professional background service to initiate this service.
[3-16-94, 5-31-95, 12-15-97, 02-14-00; 16.5.6.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.6.9, 06-14-01; A, 3-29-02; A, 07-
16-07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.6.10 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant for a license by examination must
submit the required fees and following documentation:
A. completed application signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months;
applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
B. official transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental school or college, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
C. a copy of WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, or SRTA score card or certificate from the appropriate
specialty board;
D. copy of national board examination certificate or score card;
E. proof of having taken a course in infection control technique or graduation from dental school
within the past 12 months;
F. proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross; or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
G. the board will obtain verification of applicant status from the national practitioners data bank and
the American association of dental examiners clearinghouse; and
H. the appropriate status report from a board designated professional background service must be
received by the board office directly from a board designated professional background service; the results of the
background check must either indicate no negative findings, or if there are negative findings, those findings will be
considered by the board;
I. the board may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant is guilty
of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act,
these rules, or if it is determined that the applicant poses a threat to the welfare of the public;
J. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license in good
standing to practice dentistry, or other health care profession; verification must be sent directly to the office from the
other state(s) board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, license number, and other
information contained on the form;
K. in addition to the documentation required above, an applicant for licensure in a specialty area must
request official transcripts from the residency program or postgraduate training program to be sent directly to the
board office from the accredited program.
[3-16-94, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 12-15-97, 8-16-99; 16.5.6.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.6.10, 06-14-01; A, 3-29-
02; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
51
16.5.6.11 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE: An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the
jurisprudence exam must submit the re-examination fee as set forth in Subsection D of 16.5.5.8 NMAC to re-take
the exam.
[9-13-69, 9-30-96; 16.5.6.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.11, 06-14-01; A, 04-17-06]
16.5.6.12 LICENSURE PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or the delegate of the board will review and may approve the
application. The board shall formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
A. Initial dental licenses are issued for a period not to exceed three years, as defined in Subsection 8
of 16.5.11 NMAC.
B. Any application that cannot be approved by the delegate of the board will be reviewed by the
entire board at the next scheduled meeting.
[3-16-94, 9-30-96; A, 8-16-99; 16.5.6.12 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.6.12, 06-14-01]
History of 16.5.6 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
Article II, Examination to Practice Dentistry, filed 03-11-81;
Article II, Examination to Practice Dentistry, filed 01-12-82;
Article, II, Examination to Practice Dentistry, filed 03-30-82;
Article, II, Examination to Practice Dentistry, filed 02-05-88;
BOD Rule 3, Examination to Practice Dentistry, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DS 1-95, Dentistry, General Practice Licensure, filed 05-05-95.
BODHC Rule DS 2-95, Dentistry, Specialty Licensure by Examination, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.6, Dentists, Licensure by Examination, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.6, Dentists, Licensure by Examination, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to
16.5.6 NMAC, Dentists, Licensure by Examination, effective 06-14-01.
52
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 7 DENTISTS, TEMPORARY OR PUBLIC SERVICE LICENSURE
16.5.7.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.7.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.7.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.7 NMAC apply to all dentists applying for a temporary or a
public service license to practice in New Mexico.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.2, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.7 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-14.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.7.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.7.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a different date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.5, 12-14-00; A, 09-18-10]
16.5.7.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for application for temporary or public service
licensure as a dentist.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.6, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Entity” means a dental or dental hygiene organization, foundation or officially recognized study
club, which has a constitution, bylaws and whose officers or board of trustees are dentists or dental hygienists
licensed in good standing in the state.
B. “Good standing” means having an active dental license in a jurisdiction for a period of at least
three consecutive years immediately preceding the date of application, and a minimum of five years of dental
licensure. The board shall consider stipulations, disciplinary, or administrative actions taken against a licensee by
the issuing agency, within the previous five years, when determining whether a license is in good standing.
C. “In the state” or “in this state” means that a program has a physical presence in New Mexico in the
form of a facility and a permanent faculty.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.7, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.8 CATEGORIES OF TEMPORARY OR PUBLIC SERVICE LICENSES: Applications for a
temporary or a public service New Mexico dental license may be issued in the following categories for specific
purposes if education and experience requirements are met.
A. Clinical educator. Dentists, not currently licensed in New Mexico, who provide clinical education
or training that includes demonstrations on live subjects must apply for temporary licensure. The temporary license
is issued for 48 hours; if the course lasts longer than two days, additional 48 hour licenses may be requested upon
payment of the applicable fees; a temporary license may not be issued for less than 48 hours.
B. A student who is enrolled in a commission of dental accreditation (CODA) dental specialty
program or a commission of dental accreditation (CODA) general practice dental residency program, or an advanced
education in general dentistry program, who holds a current, valid license in good standing in another US
jurisdiction, may be granted a temporary 48 hour license for the purpose of observing or assisting a licensed New
Mexico practitioner in cases for educational purposes.
C. A resident or student enrolled in a commission of dental accreditation (CODA) accredited
program in the state of New Mexico may be granted a public service license for up to 12 months. This public
service license may be renewed annually only for the purpose of completing the education program and shall not be
renewed once the residency or educational program is completed or the applicant is no longer enrolled, provided:
(1) the program in this state is accredited by the commission on dental accreditation (CODA);
(2) the residency program maintains a physical presence in New Mexico, including:
53
(a) a faculty and staff full time in New Mexico who holds a license in New Mexico in good
standing in accordance with the degree they hold; and
(b) a facility in the state where residency students may attend lectures, seminars and receive
clinical instruction;
(3) public service license for a dental resident or student may not be converted to any other public
service license or license by credentials;
(4) the applicant must practice under the sponsorship of or be associated with a dentist holding a
current license in good standing in this state;
(5) upon application by a resident or student, the participating residency or education program must
supply documentation to the board of its accreditation status, faculty and facilities in New Mexico; and
(6) successful completion of a clinical board examination is not a requirement for a public service
license to be granted to a student or resident under this section.
D. Clinical practice in underserved area or state institutions. A dentist may be granted temporary
licensure to practice in a state institution, a program approved or maintained by the New Mexico department of
health (NMDOH), or a program or clinic designated by the New Mexico department of health (NMDOH), as dental
care underserved area (DCUA). The New Mexico department of health (NMDOH) may recommend to the New
Mexico board of dental health care, counties, communities, county census divisions, or in the case of urban areas,
neighborhoods, zip codes, and census tracts to be considered as dental care underserved areas (DCUA's). Areas
recommended as DCUA's may reflect those areas designated by the federal government as dental health professional
shortage areas (DHPSA). The New Mexico board of dental health care will request annually from NMDOH a
written report of which areas are recommended as DCUA's and will update the listing throughout the year as
appropriate. The New Mexico board of dental health care may designate DCUA's based upon these
recommendations:
(1) the temporary license holder is restricted to work exclusively in the institution or program named
on the application or the temporary license certificate;
(2) a temporary license for clinical practice in an underserved area or state institution is valid for 12
months and shall expire at the end of that period; the board may re-issue the temporary license for three additional
12 month periods; each license reissue must be approved by the board; the licensee must contact the board office
three months prior to the expiration date to begin the re-issue process;
(3) the New Mexico board of dental health care shall rely upon the listing of recommended practices
in underserved areas or state institutions, and the listing of recommended DCUA's provided by NMDOH in its
review of applications for clinical practice in underserved areas; temporary licenses will be reissued only for sites
and DCUA's that remain on the recommended listings by the New Mexico department of health;
(4) the applicant shall provide an affidavit from the administrative supervisor of the applicant's
proposed employer organization as defined in Subsection C of 16.5.7.8 NMAC attesting to supervision and
oversight by a New Mexico licensed dentist in good standing, and bearing the signature of both; and
(5) the applicant shall provide an affidavit from the New Mexico department of health specifying
supervision will be by a licensed New Mexico dentist in good standing and bearing the signature of both;
(6) a temporary license to practice in an underserved area may be converted to a license by
credentials provided the applicant:
(a) meets all requisite requirements listed in 16.5.8 NMAC and provides all documentation as
required in 16.5.8.10 NMAC of these rules, with exception of the requirement to have a license in good standing for
five years;
(b) practices for at least 1000 hours per year under a temporary license in an underserved area
for three consecutive years; one year of credit will be granted for;
(i) a commission on dental accreditation residency (CODA) or ADA recognized
specialty program; or
(ii) private practice of 1000 or more hours per year; and
(c) has no complaints under board investigation, actions pending or actions taken against the
applicant's temporary license;
(d) has renewed the temporary license yearly, and has paid the required license fees;
(e) has maintained the same continuing education requirements of regularly licensed dentists as
set forth in 16.5.10 NMAC of these rules; the annual continuing education requirements are to be based upon 1/3
prorated share of those required of a licensee applying for license renewal on a triennial basis; and
(f) applies for conversion of a temporary license to a license by credentials pursuant to
16.5.7.15 NMAC of these rules.
54
E. Emergency practitioner. Out of state specialists needed for emergency care in a hospital may be
granted a temporary license:
(1) the information normally given in official documentation may be given in written or verbal form
because of the emergency nature of the license;
(2) this category will be given a 48 hour temporary license but it may be extended in 48 hour
increments until the dentist can leave the patient to the care of others; and
(3) the New Mexico licensed dentist acting as the sponsor for the temporary licensee must be
responsible for the validity of the following credentials:
(a) the license number in the state in which the applicant resides and practices, and the current
status of the license;
(b) proof of liability insurance; and
(c) verification of status of hospital credentials in state of residence or practice.
F. Replacement practitioner. A dentist may be granted temporary licensure for six or 12 months to
work exclusively with patients in the practice of a New Mexico licensed dentist who is unable to practice dentistry
because of physical or mental illness, injury, pregnancy, impairment, physical absence, or other condition approved
by the board:
(1) the temporary license holder is restricted to work exclusively in the practice named on the
application; and
(2) a temporary license as a replacement practitioner is valid for no longer than 12 months, and may
not be re-issued.
G. Presumptive public service licensure for a charitable dental project. A dentist not holding a
license in the state may be granted a presumptive public service license for up to 72 hours to participate in a board
approved charitable project. Except as noted in this section the dentist shall otherwise be subject to the provisions of
the dental practice act and the rules and regulations of the board. The presumptive public service license is valid
only when:
(1) the charitable project is approved by the board 45 days prior to the scheduled event;
(2) the dentist receives no compensation for participating in the project;
(3) the project is sponsored by an entity as defined in 16.5.7.7 NMAC and that entity has been
approved by the board to undertake the charitable project;
(4) the dentist holds a license in good standing in another jurisdiction and the license is verified by
the sponsoring entity;
(5) the dentist has graduated from and holds a diploma from a dental school accredited by the
commission on dental accreditation and a copy of the diploma is on file with the sponsoring entity;
(6) upon request the out-of-state dentist shall produce copies of their diploma and license in another
jurisdiction;
(7) the dental care provided is within the scope and limits of the license the dentist holds in the other
jurisdiction;
(8) the out-of-state dentist works under the indirect supervision of a dentist licensed in good standing
in this state who is present at the charitable project;
(9) patients who receive dental care during the charitable project will be given a list of dentists whom
they can contact if post-operative care is needed;
(10) a charitable public service license is not eligible for conversion to any other public service,
regular license; or license by credentials; and
(11) no fee shall be required by the board for the presumptive public service license for a charitable
project.
[3-17-73, 3-16-94, 4-15-94, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.7.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.7.8, 12-14-00; A, 3-29-02; A,
07-17-08; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.9 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR TEMPORARY AND PUBLIC SERVICE
LICENSURE: Presumptive public service practitioners as defined in Subsection G of 16.5.7.8 NMAC are not
required to comply with Subsection D, E and F of this section. Residents or students as defined in Subsection C of
16.5.7.8 NMAC are not required to comply with Subsection C, E and F of this section. All other applicants for
temporary or public service licensure must possess each of the following qualifications:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental school or college as defined in 61-5A-
12, A;
55
B. if the temporary or public service license is for a practice specialty, the applicant must have
obtained a postgraduate degree or certificate from an accredited dental college, school of dentistry or other residency
program that is accredited by the commission on dental accreditation;
C. hold a valid license in good standing from another state or territory of the United States;
D. applicants requesting a six or 12 month temporary or public service license must pass the
jurisprudence exam with a score of at least a 75 percent;
E. for those applying for an initial temporary or public service license in public health dentistry or as
a replacement practitioner, the board requires a level III background status report from a board designated
professional background service; application for this service will be included with other application materials; the
applicant will apply and pay fee directly to a board designated professional background service to initiate this
service; the license may be provisionally issued while awaiting the report from a board designated professional
background service; and
F. must have successfully passed clinical examination through WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX,
SRTA or other examination accepted by the board; the results of the clinical examination must be sent directly to the
board office.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95; 16.5.7.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.7.9, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-01; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-17-08;
A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
16.5.7.10 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Except as otherwise required by Subsection F of
16.5.7.8 NMAC, presumptive public service practitioners do not need to comply with the following for temporary or
public service licensure. Residents or students as defined in Subsection C of 16.5.7.8 NMAC shall provide only
documents described in Subsection F of this section. All other applicants for temporary or public service licensure
must submit the required fees and following documentation:
A. completed application signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months.
Applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
B. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession; verification must be sent directly to the office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, license number, expiration date and other
information contained on the form;
C. proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
D. an affidavit from the New Mexico licensed dentist who is sponsoring the applicant attesting to the
qualifications of the applicant and the activities the applicant will perform; applicants for temporary licensure in
underserved areas and state institutions must:
(1) provide an affidavit from the administrative supervisor of the applicant's proposed employer
organization as defined in Subsection C of 16.5.7.8 NMAC attesting to supervision and oversight by a New Mexico
licensed dentist, and bearing the signature of both; or
(2) provide an affidavit from the New Mexico department of health specifying supervision will be by
a licensed New Mexico dentist and bearing the signature of both;
(3) report any changes in supervision or oversight of the temporary licensee to the board within 30
days of the change; and
(4) provide proof of acceptable liability insurance coverage;
E. in addition, applicants requesting temporary licensure in public health dentistry or as a
replacement practitioner must submit the following:
(1) official transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental school or college, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
(2) copy of national board examination certificate or score card;
(3) copy of clinical examination score card or certificate from the accepted examining agent;
(4) proof of having taken a course in infection control technique within the past 12 months;
(5) applicant shall authorize the drug enforcement administration (DEA) and American association of
dental examiners clearinghouse to send verification of status directly to the board office;
(6) the board will obtain verification of applicant status from the national practitioners data bank; and
(7) a level III status report from a board designated professional background service must be received
directly from a board designated professional background service; the results of the background check must either
56
indicate no negative findings, or if there are negative findings, those findings will be considered by the board; the
board may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant is guilty of violating any of
the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act, these rules, or if it is
determined that the applicant poses a threat to the welfare of the public;
(8) in addition to the documentation required above, an applicant for temporary licensure in a
specialty area must request official transcripts from the residency program or postgraduate training program to be
sent directly to the board office from the accredited program.
F. Residents or students as defined in Subsection C of 16.5.7.8 NMAC must submit the required fees
and following documentation:
(1) completed application signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months;
applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
(2) office transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental school or college, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
(3) copy of national board examination certificate or score card;
(4) proof of having taken a course in infection control technique within the past 12 months or have
graduation from dental school within the past 12 months;
(5) pass the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent;
(6) if resident or student has or holds a license to practice dentistry or other health care profession
they must submit verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession; verification must be sent directly to the office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, license number, expiration date and other
information contained on the form; and
(7) issue date of the license will correspond with the first date of the residency start date.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.7.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.10, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-01; A, 3-29-02, A, 07-16-
07; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
16.5.7.11 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE: An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the
jurisprudence exam must submit the re-examination fee as defined in Subsection D of 16.5.5 NMAC to retake the
exam.
[9-30-96; 16.5.7.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.11, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.12 LICENSURE PROCEDURES: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required
documentation and fees, the Secretary-Treasurer or the delegate of the Board will review and approve the
application. The Board shall formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
A. Emergency Practitioner: Upon receipt of the necessary credentials from the practitioner and the
verification from the sponsoring dentist, a professional member of the Board or Board Administrator may declare
the practitioner a temporary licensee of record and submit such information to the practitioner, sponsoring dentist,
and/or the hospital.
B. Any application which cannot be approved by the delegate of the Board will be reviewed by the
entire Board at the next scheduled meeting.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.7.12 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.12, 12-14-00]
16.5.7.13 RE-ISSUE PROCEDURES: To remain eligible for temporary or public service licensure;
temporary or public service license holders who are eligible for re-issue per 16.5.7.8 NMAC must contact the board
office three months prior to the expiration date to begin the re-issue process. All requirements regarding re-issue are
the same as the initial application as defined in 16.5.7.10 NMAC. The form, application and fee and proof of 20
hours of continuing education must be post-marked on or before the expiration date.
[12-15-97; 16.5.7.13 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.13, 12-14-00; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.14 LIMITATION ON PRACTICE: Temporary or public service licensees shall engage in only
those activities specified on the temporary or public service license for the time period designated.
A. Temporary or public service licensees shall only practice under the sponsorship or in association
with a licensed New Mexico dentist or dental hygienist.
B. Temporary or public service licensees and the approved sponsor or associate are responsible for
compliance with the act and these rules.
57
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 12-15-97, 16.5.7.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.7.14, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.7.15 CONVERSION OF TEMPORARY LICENSE TO LICENSE BY CREDENTIALS:
A. Following the completion of the requirements listed in 16.5.7.8 NMAC of these rules, the
temporary licensee may complete an application for licensure by credentials.
B. Any additional licenses acquired during the time practicing under a temporary license must be
reported on the application for licensure by credentials.
C. Any actions taken against the applicant's license in any other jurisdiction while licensed in New
Mexico under a temporary license must be reported on the application for license by credentials.
D. Upon receipt of a complete application the board shall issue a New Mexico license by credentials
unless there is any action pending against the temporary license. Then at the discretion of the board or it's agent, the
temporary license may be extended until pending action is settled. If action is taken against the temporary license,
conversion to a license by credentials will be halted and the temporary license will no longer be renewed.
E. Conversion of a temporary license to practice dentistry does not allow conversion of a temporary
anesthesia permit into one lasting more than the initial 12 months. After the 12 month period, an additional permit
requires successful completion of an additional anesthesia exam and a facilities inspection. See Subsection C of
16.5.15.15 NMAC.
[16.5.7.15 NMAC - N, 3-29-02; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.7 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public
records - state records center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 03-11-81;
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 01-12-82;
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 03-30-82;
BOD Rule 4, Licensing of Dentists, filed 02-09-89 (portion of);
BODHC Rule DS 3-95, Dentistry, Temporary Licensure, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material:
Article XIV, Repeals BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 2-12-73.
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.7, General Provisions, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.1, General Provisions, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to 16.5.7 NMAC,
Dentists, Temporary Licensure, effective 12-14-00.
58
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 8 DENTISTS, LICENSURE BY CREDENTIALS
16.5.8.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.1 NMAC - Rn & A, NMAC 5.8.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.8.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.8 NMAC apply to all applicants for licensure as a general or
specialty dentist by credentials.
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.8.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.8 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health Care
Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-12 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.8.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.4 NMAC- Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.8.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.5, 12-14-00; A, 07-19-10]
16.5.8.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for application for licensure as a dentist by
credentials held through licensure in another state(s).
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.6, 12-14-00]
16.5.8.7 DEFINITIONS: License in “good standing” is defined as having an active dental license in a
jurisdiction for a period of at least three consecutive years immediately preceding the date of application, and a
minimum of five years of dental licensure. The board shall consider stipulations, disciplinary or administrative
actions taken against a licensee by the issuing agency, within the previous five years, when determining whether a
license is in “good standing”.
[8-15-95, 9-30-96, 12-15-97, 1-1-99, 8-16-99; 16.5.8.7 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.8.7, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.8.8 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE IN GENERAL PRACTICE: Each
applicant for licensure as a general dentist by credentials must possess the following qualifications:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental school as defined in 61-5A-12 A;
B. completed 60 hours of approved continuing education during the past 36 months in compliance
with 16.5.1.15 NMAC of these rules;
C. passed the dental national board examination as defined in Section 61-5A-12 A;
D. passed the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent;
E. holds a current active license in good standing by clinical examination in another state or territory
of the United States, or has maintained a uniform service practice in the United States military or public health
service for three years immediately preceding the application;
F. passed clinical examination through WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, SRTA or other examination
accepted by the board;
G. the board may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant holds or
has held a license in another jurisdiction that is not in good standing, if proceedings are pending against the
applicant in another jurisdiction, or information is received indicating the applicant is of danger to patients or is
guilty of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists
Act, or these rules;
H. the board requires a level II background status report from a board designated professional
background service; application for this service will be included with other application materials; the applicant will
apply and pay fees directly to a board designated professional background service to initiate this service.
[3-16-94, 8-15-95, 9-30-96, 1-1-99, 8-16-99; 16.5.8.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.8.8, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-01; A,
07-16-07; A, 07-17-08; A, 01-09-12]
59
16.5.8.9 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSE IN SPECIALTY PRACTICE: Any
dentist who has taken a clinical examination accepted by the board and who has completed and passed a CODA
accredited specialty program in one of the ADA recognized specialties may be issued a specialty license by the
board. Each applicant for a license to practice a dental specialty by credentials must possess the following
qualifications. Individuals licensed to practice a dental specialty shall be limited to practice only in that specialty
area.
A. Graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental school as defined in 61-5A-12 A.
B. Have a postgraduate degree or certificate from an accredited dental school or approved residency
program as defined in 61-5A-12 E, in one of the specialty areas of dentistry recognized by the ADA.
C. Completed 60 hours of continuing education during the past 36 months in compliance with
16.5.1.15 NMAC of these rules.
D. Successfully completed the dental national board examination as defined in Section 61-5A-12 A.
E. An applicant in any specialty defined in Subsection E of 16.5.8.9 NMAC for which there is no
specialty examination may substitute diplomate status for the examination.
F. Successfully completed an examination for diplomate status or a specialty licensure examination
comparable to the specialty exam recognized by the New Mexico board of dental health care:
(1) the examination must include the entry level clinical skills in one of the following specialties:
endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics/dento-facial orthopedics, oral pathology, pediatric
dentistry, periodontology, prosthodontics; or oral and maxillofacial radiology, other specialties approved by the
American dental association; or
(2) for licensure as a specialist in dental public health, the applicant must have successfully
completed the examination for diplomate status given by the American board of public health dentistry.
G. Completed the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent.
H. Hold a current active license in good standing by examination in another state or territory of the
United States.
I. The board may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant holds
or has held a license in another jurisdiction that is not in good standing, if proceedings are pending against the
applicant in another jurisdiction, or information is received indicating the applicant is of danger to patients or is
guilty of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists
Act, or these rules.
J. The board requires a level II background status report from a board designated professional
background service. Application for this service will be included with other application materials. The applicant
will apply and pay fees directly to a board designated professional background service to initiate this service.
[3-16-94, 8-15-95, 9-30-96, 8-16-99, 06-13-01; 16.5.8.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.9, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-01; A,
07-16-07; A, 07-17-08; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
16.5.8.10 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant for licensure by credentials must
submit the required fees and following documentation:
A. completed application signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months;
applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
B. official transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental school or college, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
C. copy of national board examination certificate or scorecard;
D. copy of clinical examination score card or certificate from the accepted examining agent;
E. proof of having taken a course in infection control technique within the past twelve months;
F. proof of current life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
G. the board will obtain verification of applicant status from the national practitioner's data bank and
the American association of dental examiners clearinghouse;
H. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession; verification must be sent directly to the office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, license number, and other information
contained on the form;
60
I. a level II status report from a board designated professional background service must be received
by the board office directly from a board designated professional background service; the results of the background
check must either indicate no negative findings, or if there are negative findings, those findings will be considered
by the board;
J. the board may deny, stipulate or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant is guilty
of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentist and Hygienist Act,
these rules, or if t is determined that the applicant poses a threat to the welfare of the public;
K. proof of 60 hours of continuing education during the 36 months prior to licensure in compliance
with 16.5.1.15 NMAC of these rules;
L. dentists employed in uniform service practice shall furnish:
(1) a copy of the most recent commissioned officers effectiveness report, or equivalent, issued by the
uniformed service dental service, and
(2) a certified letter from the clinic commander attesting to past record and any actions taken on
applicant's uniform service credentials;
M. applicants for specialty by credentials in one of the following applicants for specialty license must
submit: official transcripts from the residency program or postgraduate training program, sent directly to the board
office from the accredited program;
N. certificate of diplomate status from the specialty board, must be sent directly to the board office;
and
O. successfully completed an examination for diplomate status or a specialty licensure examination
comparable to the specialty exam recognized by the New Mexico board of dental health care:
(1) the examination must include the entry level clinical skills in one of the following specialties:
endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics/dento-facial orthopedics, oral pathology, pediatric
dentistry, periodontology, prosthodontics; or oral and maxillofacial radiology; or
(2) for licensure as a specialist in dental public health, the applicant must have successfully
completed the examination for diplomate status given by the American board of public health dentistry;
P. supplemental information may be requested by the board.
[3-16-94, 8-15-96, 9-30-96, 12-15-97, 1-1-99, 8-16-99, 2-14-00; 16.5.8.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.10, 12-14-
00; A, 06-14-01; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.8.11 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE: An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the
jurisprudence exam must submit the re-examination fee as defined in Subsection D of 16.5.5.8 NMAC to re-take the
exam.
[9-30-96; 16.5.8.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.11, 12-14-00]
16.5.8.12 LICENSURE PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board will review and may approve the application
when the applicant holds a valid license obtained through clinical exam. The board shall formally accept the
approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting. All applications for licensure by credentials based on
uniform service practice will be taken to the board for review and final determination of eligibility for licensure at
the next scheduled meeting.
A. Initial dental licenses are issued for a period not to exceed three years as defined in Section
16.5.11.8 NMAC.
B. Any application that cannot be approved by the delegate of the board will be reviewed by the
entire board at the next scheduled meeting.
[8-15-95, 9-30-96, 8-16-99; 16.5.8.12 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.8.12, 12-14-00]
HISTORY OF 16.5.8 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
BODHC Rule DS 11-95, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 07-31-95.
61
History of Repealed Material:
Article XIV, Repeals BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 2-12-73.
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.8, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 07-31-95;
16 NMAC 5.8, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to 16.5.8
NMAC, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, effective 12-14-00.
62
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 9 NON-DENTIST OWNERS
16.5.9.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.9.1 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.9.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.9 NMAC apply to all parts of Chapter 5 and provide relevant
information to any person who wishes to own a practice and is not a dentist or collaborative practice dental hygienist
licensed in New Mexico.
[16.5.9.2 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.9.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-1 through Section 61-5A-30 (1996
Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.9.3 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.9.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.9.4 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.9.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: March 6, 2005, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.9.5 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.9.6 OBJECTIVE: To set forth the provisions which apply to all of Chapter 5, and to all persons and
entities affected or regulated by Chapter 5 of Title 16, and to all persons and entities affected or regulated by
Chapter 5 of Title 16.
[16.5.9.6 NMAC - N, 03-06-05]
16.5.9.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Employee” means a licensee of the board employed or contracted with a non-dentist owner for
the purpose of providing dental or dental hygiene services as defined by their respective scopes of practice; or enters
into a managed care or other agreement to provide dental or dental hygiene services in New Mexico.
B. “Exempted entities” not included in non-dentist owner, under the following stipulations an entity
may function as a non-dentist owner without a New Mexico license:
(1) government agencies providing dental services within affiliated facilities;
(2) government agencies engaged in providing public health measures to prevent dental disease;
(3) spouses of a deceased licensed dentist or dental hygienists for a period of one year following the
death of the licensee;
(4) accredited school of dentistry, dental hygiene or dental assisting providing dental services solely
in an education setting only;
(5) dental hygienists licensed in New Mexico or corporate entities with a majority interest owned by
a dental hygienist licensed in New Mexico;
(6) federally qualified health centers, as designated by the United States department of health and
human services, providing dental services;
(7) nonprofit community-based entities and organizations that use public funds to provide dental and
dental hygiene services for indigent person; and
(8) hospitals licensed by the department of health.
C. “Non-dentist owner” means an individual not licensed as a dentist in New Mexico or a corporate
entity not owned by a majority interest of a New Mexico licensed dentist that employs or contracts with a dentist or
dental hygienist to provide dental or dental hygiene services.
[16.5.9.7 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.9.8 RESPONSIBILITY OF NON-DENTIST OWNER: To employ and contract for dental services,
a non-dentist owner shall apply to the board for the proper license and adhere to the re-licensure criteria and fees as
established by the rules of the board.
A. Unless licensed as a dentist or non-dentist owner an individual or corporate entity shall not:
63
(1) employ or contract with a dentist or dental hygienist for the purpose of providing dental or dental
hygiene services as defined by their respective scopes of practice; or
(2) enter into a managed care or other agreement to provide dental or dental hygiene services in New
Mexico;
B. the non-dentist owner licensee shall follow the provisions of 16.5.16 NMAC; failure of the
licensee or an employee of the licensee to follow these provisions will result in disciplinary actions as defined in
16.5.16 NMAC;
C. if an employee dentist or dental hygienist leaves the non-dentist owner practice, the non-dentist
owner is responsible for the continued uninterrupted care of the patient by another licensed dentist or dental
hygienist;
D. non-dentist owner shall notify the board in writing within 30 days of any changes in ownership;
E. non-dentist owner shall notify the board in writing within 30 days of any employment changes of
board licensed employees;
F. non-dentist owner shall notify the board within 30 days of any disciplinary actions against the
non-dentist owner(s);
G. non-dentist owner employees shall follow provision of 16.5.16 NMAC; failure of an employee of
the licensee to follow these provisions will result in disciplinary actions as defined in 16.5.16 NMAC;
H. non-dentist owners licensed prior to the effective date of these rules shall be allowed to maintain
their existing license(s);
I. the name and contact information of the non-dentist owner(s) shall be prominently displayed in a
public area of the practice location(s) and on all advertisements of the practice;
J. the non-dentist owner(s) shall prominently display in a public area of the practice location(s) and
on all advertisements the practice names of employee(s) licensed by the board;
K. no person other than another New Mexico licensed dentist shall have direct control or interfere
with the dentist’s or dental hygienist’s clinical judgment; and
L. non-dentist owners shall maintain patient records for a minimum of six years.
[16.5.9.8 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12; A, 09-14-12]
[Subsection H of 16.5.9.8 NMAC (effective 01/09/2012) was set aside by the New Mexico Court of Appeal’s
decision in Pacific Dental Services, Inc. v. New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care (In re New Mexico Board of
Dental Health Rule Hearing), case number 31,836 (June 1, 2012).]
16.5.9.9 RESPONSIBILITY OF DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENIST EMPLOYED BY A NON-
DENTIST OWNER: Dentists and dental hygienists employed by a non-dentist owner shall report such
employment in their initial and renewal applications, including the name, address and phone number of the non-
dentist owner or corporation, and the name of their immediate manager or supervisor.
[16.5.9.9 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.9.10 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant for a non-dentist owner license shall
submit a completed application obtained from the board office with the required fees and the following
documentation:
A. completed application signed and notarized by the individual that is the non-dentist owner or by
the president of the parent corporation; applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
B. the board requires a level II board designated professional background service report; the
application for this service will be included application materials; the applicant will apply and pay fees directly to a
board designated professional background service to initiate this service; if the applicant has or has had a
professional license in dentistry or another related health care profession the board designated professional
background service report will do a search of those appropriate databases for past disciplinary action as well as a
criminal background check; in the case of any corporation entity, the board requires a review of public records and
other nationally recognized data resources that record actions against a corporation in the United States that may
reveal any activities or unacquitted civil or criminal charges that could reasonably be construed to constitute
evidence of danger to patients, including acts of moral turpitude;
C. passed the jurisprudence examination with a score of at least 75 percent;
D. non-dentist owner(s) shall comply with Subsection C of this section within six months of the
effective date of the rule;
E. verification of licensure in all states where the non-dentist owner holds or has held a license, or
other health care profession; verification shall be sent directly to the office from the other state(s) board, shall
64
include a raised seal, and shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and other information
contained on the form; and
F. the board may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant is guilty
of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act,
these rules, or if it is determined that the applicant poses a threat to the welfare of the public.
[16.5.9.10 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.9.11 LICENSURE PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or the delegate of the board will review and may approve the
application. The board shall formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
A. Initial license: Non-dentist owner licenses are issued for a period not to exceed three years. The
licensee will renew the license on a triennial bases.
B. Posting: The license and subsequent renewal certificates shall be posted in each place of business.
Duplicates may be requested from the board office with location of each business address where they will be posted
for the public to view.
C. License: This license is non-transferable.
D. Renewal: After the initial license period, non-dentist owner licenses expire every three years on
July 1. Licenses not renewed by July 1 are considered expired.
(1) A completed renewal application with appropriate fees shall be post-marked on or before July 1
of the renewal year.
(2) The board assumes no responsibility for renewal applications not received by the licensee for any
reason. It is the licensee’s responsibility to make timely request for the renewal form if one has not been received
30 days prior to license expiration.
E. Late renewals: Renewal applications post-marked after July 1 and prior to August 1 of the
renewal year shall be accompanied by the completed renewal application, the triennial renewal fee, and the late fee.
(1) Renewal applications post-marked on or after August 1 but before September 1 of the renewal
year, shall be accompanied by the completed application, the triennial renewal fee, a late fee, and a cumulative late
fee of $10 per day from August 1 to the date of the postmark or hand-delivery to board office.
(2) If a renewal application is not received by the board office, or post-marked before September 1,
the license shall be summarily revoked for non-payment of fees. Dental professionals in such offices or clinics shall
cease and desist from further practice of dentistry or dental hygiene until non-dentist owner has renewed or re-
applied.
[16.5.9.11 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.9.12 PREREQUISITES FOR NON-DENTIST OWNER: Each applicant for licensure as a non-
dentist owner shall possess the following:
A. shall be a United States citizen or United States legal resident;
B. shall be a resident of New Mexico or a corporation registered in New Mexico; and
C. non-dentist owner(s) or agent of corporation shall pass the New Mexico jurisprudence
examination with 75 percent.
[16.5.9.12 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.9 NMAC: [RESERVED]
65
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 10 DENTISTS, CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
16.5.10.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.10.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 10 of Chapter 5 apply to all licensed dentists who are applying to
renew their license.
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.2 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 10 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-10 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.3 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.4 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.10.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish criteria for continuing education for dentists licensed in New
Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.6 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.10.7 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.8 HOURS REQUIRED: 60 hours of continuing education, a maximum of 30 hours can be on-line,
webinars or self-study, are required during each triennial renewal cycle as defined in 16.5.1 NMAC. Continuing
education received after submission of renewal materials but prior to actual expiration date may be used for the
requirements of the next renewal cycle. Continuing education requirements are pro-rated at 20 hours per full year of
the initial licensing period. Initial licenses issued for less than a full year do not require continuing education for the
first renewal.
[11/21/75...5/31/95; 16.5.10.8 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.8, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.10.9 COURSES REQUIRED: Continuing education coursework must contribute directly to the
practice of dentistry and must comply with the requirements of 16.5.1.15 NMAC of these rules. The following
courses are required for license renewal.
A. Proof of current certification in basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be self-study course.
B. Infection control. As further defined in 16.5.1.16 NMAC, a course in infection control techniques
and sterilization procedures per renewal period.
C. Education requirements: Any dentist holding enteral anxiolysis (minimal sedation), CSI, CSII,
deep sedation and permit at large (AAL) are required to have a minimum of five hours of continuing education for
the permit renewal (every six years) in medical emergencies, air way management, pharmacology, or anesthesia
related topics.
[5/21/93...9/30/96; 16.5.10.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.10.9, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07; A, 07/19/10; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.10.10 VERIFICATION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION: The board will select renewal
applications for verification of continuing education. Audit requests will be included with the renewal notice and
those selected individuals will be asked to submit proof of compliance with the continuing education requirements.
Continuing education records may be audited by the board at any time. The records identified Subsection F of
16.5.1.15 NMAC are considered acceptable forms of documentation. Continuing education records must be
maintained for one year following the renewal cycle in which they are earned.
66
[5/21/93...9/30/96; 16.5.10.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.10.10, 04/17/06]
16.5.10.11 EMERGENCY DEFERRAL:
A. Licensee unable to fulfill the continuing education requirements may apply to the board for an
emergency deferral of the requirements due to extenuating circumstances as defined in 16.5.1.7 NMAC. Deferrals of
up to four months may be granted by a designee of the board.
B. Licensee practicing or residing outside the United States shall not be required to fulfill the
continuing education requirements for the period of the absence.
(1) The board must be notified prior to license expiration that the licensee will be outside the US,
including the period of the absence.
(2) Upon return to the US, the licensee shall complete the continuing education required for the years
of practice within the US during the renewal cycle, or apply for an emergency deferral.
[3/11/89...9/30/96; 16.5.10.11 NMAC - Rn , 16 NMAC 5.10.11, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.10 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously files with the commission of public
records - state records center and archives as:
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 3/12/81.
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 1/12/82.
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 3/30/82.
That applicable portion of Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings replaced by BOD Rule 12, Continuing Education
Requirements, filed 2/9/89.
That applicable portion of BOD Rule 12, Continuing Education Requirements replaced by BODHC Rule DS 5-95,
Dentists, Continuing Education Requirements, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DS 5-95, Dentists, Continuing Education Requirements (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.10, Dentists, Continuing Education Requirements, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.10, Dentists, Continuing Education Requirements (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended
and replaced by 16.5.10 NMAC, Dentists, Continuing Education Requirements, effective 04/17/06.
67
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 11 DENTISTS, LICENSE EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL
16.5.11.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 11 of Chapter 5 apply to all dentists with a license to practice in
New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 11 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a different date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish procedures for license issuance, expiration and renewal.
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.11.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.8 LICENSE EXPIRATION: Initial licenses expire on July 1, in the third year of licensure. No
license will be issued for longer than 36 months or less than 25 months.
[11/6/83...9/30/96; 12/15/97, 8/16/99; 16.5.11.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.8, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.9 RENEWAL PERIOD AND EXPIRATION: After the initial license period, dental licenses
expire every three years on June 30. Dental licenses not renewed by July 1, are considered expired.
[9/13/69...9/30/96; 8/16/99; 16.5.11.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.9, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.10 RENEWAL PROCESS: A completed renewal application, accompanied by the required fees as
set forth in 16.5.5.8 NMAC, along with the required proof of completion of 60 hours of continuing education as set
forth in 16.5.1.15 NMAC. The completed renewal application must be post-marked on or before July 1, of the
renewal year.
[3/14/73...9/30/96; 8/16/99; 16.5.11.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.10, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.11 LICENSEE RESPONSIBILITY: The board assumes no responsibility for renewal applications
not received by the licensee for any reason. It is the licensees responsibility to make timely request for the renewal
form if one has not been received thirty days prior to license expiration. Incomplete renewal applications shall be
returned to the licensee for completion, and may result in the assessment of a late renewal fee as set forth in 16.5.5.8
NMAC.
[6/4/95; 16.5.11.11 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.11, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.12 RENEWAL AFTER JUNE 30: Renewal applications post-marked after July 1, and prior to
August 1, of the renewal year must be accompanied by the completed renewal application with the required proof of
completion of 60 hours of continuing education as set forth in 16.5.10.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal
fee, impairment fee and the late fee as set forth in 16.5.5.8 NMAC.
[3/14/73...9/30/96; 8/16/99; 16.5.11.12 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.12, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.13 RENEWAL AFTER AUGUST 1 AND BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1: Renewal applications post-
marked on or after August 1, but before September 1, of the renewal year, must be accompanied by the completed
68
renewal application with the required proof of completion of 60 hours of continuing education as set forth in
16.5.10.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, late fee and the cumulative late fee as set
forth in 16.5.5.8 NMAC.
[3/14/73...5/31/95; 16.5.11.13 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.11.13, 04/17/06]
16.5.11.14 RENEWAL APPLICATION UNDELIVERABLE: If the notice of renewal is returned to the
board office and the licensee has not sent a change of address, the revocation order will be considered undeliverable
and will not be mailed.
[5/31/95, 8/16/99; 16.5.11.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.11.14, 04/17/06]
HISTORY OF 16.5.11 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the State Records
Center:
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 3/11/81.
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 1/12/82.
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 3/30/82.
BOD Rule 4, Licensing of Dentist, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DS 4-95, Dentistry, License Renewal, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DS 4-95, Dentistry, License Renewal (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16 NMAC 5.11, Dentists, License Expiration and Renewal, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.11, Dentists, License Expiration and Renewal (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16.5.11 NMAC, Dentists, License Expiration and Renewal, effective 04/17/06.
69
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 12 DENTISTS, RETIREMENT, INACTIVE AND REINSTATEMENT
16.5.12.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.12.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.12.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.12 NMAC apply to all licensed dentists who plan to retire or
reinstate an active license to practice dentistry in New Mexico.
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.12.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.12 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978, Section 61-5A-17 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.12.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.12.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.5, 12-14-00; A, 04-17-06]
16.5.12.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements and procedures to place an active dental license in
retirement status, inactive status or to reinstate the license to active status.
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.6, 12-14-00, A, 03-06-05]
16.5.12.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9-30-96; 16.5.12.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.7, 12-14-00]
16.5.12.8 RETIREMENT: A license to practice dentistry may be placed in retirement status one time
through the following procedures:
A. the request for retirement status must be made in writing to the board office prior to the expiration
of the current license; dentists with an active practice located in New Mexico must include the following
information:
(1) the actual date of retirement;
(2) proof of written notification of approaching retirement to all patients currently under active
treatment;
(3) the location where all active dental treatment records will be maintained for a minimum of six
years; active treatment records are records of patients treated in the two years previous to the date of retirement; the
notification to the board must include the name, address, and telephone number of the person who is serving as the
custodian of the records;
B. all dentists requesting retirement status may include a list of any continuing education courses
taken since the last license renewal, including documentation required in 16.5.10 NMAC; and
C. board staff shall acknowledge receipt of the request for retirement status and at the next meeting of
the board the request for retirement will be placed on the agenda; upon board approval of retirement status the
licensee will be exempt from payment of the triennial renewal fees during the period of retirement;
D. the board may deny a request for retirement status if there are any current or pending complaints
or disciplinary actions against the licensee;
E. a licensee desiring to go from active to inactive must sign a waiver and stipulation provided by the
board foregoing the three year retirement.
[3-14-73…5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.12.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.12.8, 12-14-00, A, 03-06-05; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.12.9 INACTIVE: A license to practice dentistry may be placed in inactive status one time through the
following procedures.
A. The request for inactive status must be made by an application obtained from the board office
prior to the expiration of the current license or the three-year eligibility of retirement status. Dentists with an active
practice located in New Mexico must include the following information:
70
(1) the actual date of inactivation request;
(2) proof of written notification of approaching inactive status to all patients currently under active
treatment;
(3) the location where all active dental treatment records will be maintained for a minimum of six
years; active treatment records are records of patients treated in the two years previous to the date of inactive status;
the notification to the board must include the name, address, and telephone number of the person who is serving as
the custodian of the records.
B. All dentists requesting inactive status shall include a list of any continuing education courses taken
since the last license renewal, including documentation as set forth in 16.5.10 NMAC.
C. The board may deny a request for inactive status if there are any current or pending complaints or
disciplinary actions against the licensee.
[3-14-73...5-31-95, 12-15-97; 16.5.12.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.12.9, 12-14-00; N, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06;
A, 01-09-12]
16.5.12.10 REINSTATEMENT FROM RETIREMENT STATUS: A licensee whose license has been
placed in retirement status may request reinstatement of the retired license within three years of the date of
retirement as indicated in 16.5.12.8 NMAC. Upon receipt of the request for reinstatement, board staff shall send an
application for reinstatement of license.
A. Along with the completed application, the request for reinstatement must include the reinstatement
fee, the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, and proof of the following continuing education courses:
(1) 20 hours of approved continuing education courses related to the clinical practice of dentistry, per
year of retirement; at least 20 of these hours must be in the12 months previous to the request;
(2) proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(3) proof of infection control course within the past 12 months; and
(4) 60 hours of continuing education required for the last triennial renewal cycle of active licensure;
these hours may include continuing education identified at the time of retirement request as well as any continuing
education taken during the retirement period.
B. Applicant shall authorize the following agencies to send verification of status directly to the board
office:
(1) drug enforcement administration (DEA), and
(2) American association of dental examiners clearinghouse.
C. The board will obtain electronic verification of applicant status from the national practitioners’
data bank.
D. Verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession. Verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other
state(s) board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date license number, expiration date and
other information contained on the form.
E. The board at the next regularly scheduled meeting shall review the request for reinstatement,
including a statement of the applicant's activities during the period of retirement and information on any existing
impairment. If the board finds the application in order and is satisfied the applicant has fulfilled all required
continuing education, the license will be removed from retirement status and the previous license number
reassigned. The reinstated license will expire as defined in 16.5.11 NMAC.
F. A dentist with a license in retirement status may not practice dentistry in New Mexico until proof
of active licensure is received from the board office.
G. If reinstatement of a retired license is not requested after three years of retirement, and if the
licensee does not apply for inactive status, application for a new license must be made by examination or credentials
in order to practice dentistry in New Mexico.
[16.5.12.10 NMAC - Rn, 16.5.12.9 NMAC & A, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.12.11 REINSTATEMENT FROM INACTIVE STATUS: A licensee whose license has been placed
in inactive status may request reinstatement to active license status within nine years of the date of inactivation as
indicated in 16.5.12.8 NMAC. Upon receipt of the request for reinstatement, board staff shall send an application
for reinstatement of license.
71
A. Along with the completed application, the request for reinstatement must include the reinstatement
fee, the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee and proof of the following continuing education courses:
(1) 20 hours of approved continuing education courses related to the clinical practice of dentistry, per
year of inactivation; at least 20 of these hours must be in the 12 months previous to the request;
(2) proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(3) proof of infection control course within the past 12 months;
(4) proof of medical emergency course during the past 12 months; and
(5) 60 hours of continuing education required for the last triennial renewal cycle of active licensure;
these hours may include continuing education identified at the time of retirement request as well as any continuing
education taken during the retirement period.
B. Applicant shall authorize the following agencies to send verification of status directly to the board
office:
(1) drug enforcement administration (DEA); and
(2) American association of dental examiners clearinghouse.
C. The board will obtain electronic verification of applicant status from the national practitioners’
data bank.
D. Verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession. Verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other
state(s) board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number,
and other information contained on the form.
E. The board at the next regularly scheduled meeting shall review the request for reinstatement,
including a statement of the applicant's activities during the period of inactivation and information on any existing
impairment. If the board finds the application in order and is satisfied the applicant has fulfilled all required
continuing education, the license will be removed from inactive status and the previous license number reassigned.
The reinstated license will expire as defined in 16.5.11 NMAC.
F. A dentist with a license in inactive status may not practice dentistry in New Mexico until proof of
active licensure is received from the board office.
G. If reinstatement of an inactive license is not requested after nine years of inactivation, application
for a new license must be made by examination or credentials in order to practice dentistry in New Mexico or six
years if the licensee signs affidavit foregoing three years for retirement as defined in 16.5.12.8 NMAC.
[16.5.12.11 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
History of 16.5.12 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
Article V, Reinstatement of Dentists, filed 03-11-81;
Article VI, Retirement and Reinstatement of Dentists, filed 03-12-81;
BOD Rule 5, Retirement and Reinstatement of Dentists, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DS 7-95, Dentistry, Licensure by Credentials, filed 07-31-95.
History of Repealed Material:
Article XIV, Repeals BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 2-12-73.
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.12, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 07-31-95;
16 NMAC 5.8, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to
16.5.8 NMAC, Dentists, Licensure by Credentials, effective 12-14-00.
72
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 13 DENTISTS, LICENSE REVOCATION FOR NON-RENEWAL
16.5.13.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.13.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 13 of Chapter 5 apply to all dentists licensed in New Mexico
who do not submit an application for license renewal within 60 days of the expiration date.
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 13 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section .
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.13.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures and policies for dental licenses that are not renewed
within 60 days of the date of expiration.
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.13.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.13.8 REVOCATION OF LICENSE FOR NON-RENEWAL: Unless an application for license
renewal is received by the board office, or post-marked, before September 1, the license shall be revoked for non-
renewal.
[3/14/73, 5/31/95; 16.5.13.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.8, 04/17/06; A, 07/17/08]
16.5.13.9 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED LICENSE: Within one year of the revocation notice, the
license may be reinstated by payment of renewal and reinstatement fees, compliance with continuing education for
the previous renewal cycle and for the year of the revocation. Applicants for reinstatement after one year of
revocation shall re-apply as a new applicant and meet all requirements for initial licensure.
A. Applicants for reinstatement shall provide verification of licensure in all states where the applicant
holds or has held a license to practice dentistry, or other health care profession within the previous year.
Verification shall be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s) board, shall include a raised seal, and
shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and other information contained on the form.
B. Upon receipt of a completed reinstatement of revoked license application, including all
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board, will review and may approve the
application. The board may formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
[3/14/73, 5/31/95; 16.5.13.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.13.9, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07; A, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.13 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the State Records Center:
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 3/11/81.
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 1/12/82.
Article IV, Licensing of Dentist, filed 3/30/82.
BOD Rule 4, Licensing of Dentist, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DS 4-95, Dentistry, License Renewal, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
73
Other History:
BODHC Rule DS 4-95, Dentistry, License Renewal (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16 NMAC 5.13, Dentists, License Revocation for Non-Renewal, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.13, Dentists, License Revocation for Non-Renewal (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended
and replaced by 16.5.13 NMAC, Dentists, License Revocation for Non-Renewal, effective 04/17/06.
74
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 15 DENTISTS, ANESTHESIA ADMINISTRATION
16.5.15.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.15.1 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.1 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 15 of Chapter 5 apply to all dentists who hold or who are
applying for certification to administer anesthesia or analgesia.
[16.5.15.2 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.2 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 15 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, NMSA 1978, 61-5A-22 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.15.3 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.3 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.15.4 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.4 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: March 17, 2005, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.15.5 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.5 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.6 OBJECTIVE:
A. To establish guidelines and procedures for the regulation of dentists who administer nitrous oxide
inhalation analgesia, conscious sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia in an office located in New Mexico.
B. These guidelines are not meant to regulate the existing precedent where New Mexico licensed
dentists may have hospital privileges to provide anesthesia/sedation to dental patients in the operating room or
emergency room based on their training, education and policy of the hospital.
[16.5.15.6 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.6 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Anxiolysis” the diminution or elimination or reduction of anxiety.
B. “Combination inhalation-enteral sedation (combined conscious sedation)” - conscious sedation
using inhalation and enteral agents. Nitrous oxide/oxygen when used in combination with sedative agents may
produce anxiolysis, conscious or deep sedation or general anesthesia.
C. “Conscious sedation” means a minimally depressed level of consciousness that retains the
patients’ ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical
stimulation and verbal command. Conscious sedation is produced by a pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic
method or combination thereof. In accord with this particular definition, the drugs and techniques used should carry
a margin of safety wide enough to render unintended loss of consciousness unlikely. Further, patients whose only
response is reflex withdrawal from repeated painful stimuli would be considered to be in a deeper state of anesthesia
than conscious sedation.
D. “Deep sedation” means an induced state of depressed consciousness accompanied by partial loss
of protective reflexes, including the inability to continually maintain an airway independently and to respond
purposefully to verbal command. Deep sedation is produced by a pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic method or
combination thereof.
E. “Enteral” means any technique of administration in which the agent is absorbed through the
gastrointestinal tract or oral mucosa. (ie oral, rectal, sublingual)
F. “General anesthesia” means a induced state of unconsciousness, accompanied by partial or
complete loss of protective reflexes, including the inability to continually maintain an airway independently and
respond purposefully to physical stimulation or verbal command. General anesthesia is produced by a
pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic method or combination thereof.
G. “Monitor” means to watch or check on.
H. “Nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia” means the administration by inhalation of a combination of
nitrous oxide and oxygen, producing an altered level of consciousness that retains the patient's ability to
independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond appropriately to physical stimulation or verbal
command.
75
I. “Prescribed administration” means the nitrous oxide is administered by a dental hygienist or dental
assistant under the indirect supervision of the dentist with the dentist's authorization.
[16.5.15.7 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.7 NMAC, 3-17-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.15.8 REQUIREMENT TO BE REGISTERED OR CERTIFIED: Dentists who administer nitrous
oxide inhalation analgesia in New Mexico are required to be registered with the board. Dentists who administer
conscious sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthesia in New Mexico are required to obtain an anesthesia permit
from the board. Any dentist who fails to comply with these rules may be subject to disciplinary action by the board.
Anesthesia permits valid on the effective date of this rule continue to be valid until the expiration date indicated on
the permit.
[16.5.15.8 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.8 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.9 ANESTHESIA COMMITTEE:
A. Appointment: All members of the anesthesia committee serve at the pleasure of the board. The
board chair will appoint members to serve on the anesthesia committee for 5 year terms beginning on July 1.
Individuals for consideration may be nominated by the New Mexico dental association, any local dental society, or
the anesthesia committee.
B. Terms: Each member shall be appointed to serve a term of five years, however, the appointments
shall be staggered so that no more than forty percent of the members will expire in any given year.
C. Reimbursement: The anesthesia committee examiners shall be paid one hundred dollars, in
addition to mileage and per diem for exams outside of the community where they practice dentistry, upon the
completion of each office anesthesia examination and evaluation.
D. Committee composition: The anesthesia committee shall consist of licensed dentists, including at
least 1 board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, 1 general dentist, 1 dentist board member, 1 dentist not
engaged in the use of sedation techniques, and when possible, representatives of other interested dental specialties.
Each anesthesia committee member should be currently practicing some form of sedation and be currently qualified
as an examiner, except the non-sedating dentist.
E. Duties: Establish policies and procedures for the evaluation of applications, inspections of
facilities, and examination of applicants; make recommendations to the board in regard to each application; report to
the board, as needed, at regularly scheduled board meetings the status of activities of the anesthesia committee;
Inform the board of any licensee who fails to cooperate with the requirements for application, registration or renewal
of permits; inspect facilities upon request of the board; and upon request, assist the board in the investigation of
complaints concerning the administration of anesthesia or analgesia.
F. Designated examiners: The anesthesia committee chair may appoint a designated examiner with
an anesthesia permit of an equal or greater level to perform evaluations on licensed dental applicants to serve at the
pleasure of the NMBODHC chair. This designated examiner must be actively practicing his anesthesia level to be
considered by the board.
[16.5.15.9 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.9 NMAC, 3-17-05; A, 07-16-07]
16.5.15.10 ADMINISTRATION OF NITROUS OXIDE OR ENTERAL ANXIOLYSIS (MINIMAL
SEDATION) ANALGESIA:
A. NITROUS OXIDE:
(1) Registration required: Each licensed dentist who administers or supervises the prescribed
administration of nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia shall be registered with the board. A registration form will be
provided upon initial application or upon request, and contain information to verify the dentist, facility, and staff
meet the requirements specified in Paragraph (2) of Subsection A of 16.5.15.10 NMAC. When the registration has
been approved by the secretary-treasurer of the board the applicant will be sent a wall certificate which does not
expire. Administration of nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia without registration is a violation of these rules and
may result in disciplinary action against the licensee.
(2) Requirements for registration: Each licensed dentist who administers or prescribes administration
of nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia shall meet the following requirements:
(a) completed a course of training leading to competency while a student in an accredited
school of dentistry or through postgraduate training;
(b) have adequate equipment which includes fail-safe features and a 25% minimum oxygen
flow and an effective scavenging system;
76
(c) each dentist and auxiliary personnel who monitors the use of, or administers nitrous oxide
shall have current basic life support certification;
(d) all use of nitrous oxide inhalation analgesia shall be under the indirect supervision of a
licensed dentist;
(e) the patient's record shall reflect evidence of appropriate monitoring of vital signs, including
blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate; and
(f) current permit holders would be grandfathered by New Mexico laws in effect at the time of
original issue of their permit.
B. ENTERAL ANXIOLYSIS (MINIMAL SEDATION): The following requirements for anxiolysis
do not require a conscious sedation permit. Each licensed dentist who holds a nonrestricted DEA license and who
administers or supervises the administration of enteral anxiolytic medication shall be responsible for the following:
(1) completed a course of training while a student in an accredited school of dentistry or through
postgraduate training;
(2) have adequate equipment to monitor patient’s vital signs;
(3) each dentist and auxiliary personnel who monitors shall have current basic life certification;
(4) all use of enteral medication shall be under the indirect supervision of a licensed dentist;
(5) the patient's record shall reflect evidence of appropriate monitoring of vital signs, including blood
pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate during procedures and effect of medication;
(6) shall verify the patient has other means of transportation to be released from the office;
(7) administration of enteral anxiolytic medications in doses that do not exceed the normal
therapeutic dosage recommended by the manufacturer in published literature and that are within the accepted scope
of the practice and prescriptive authority of the dentist so as not to produce conscious sedation; does not require the
dentist to hold a conscious sedation I permit.
[16.5.15.10 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.10 NMAC, 3-17-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
16.5.15.11 ADMINISTRATION OF CONSCIOUS AND DEEP SEDATION: The following three
categories of anesthesia shall not be administered in a dental facility unless the licensed dentist has obtained a permit
from the board. The conscious sedation II and deep sedation/general anesthesia permits are issued to the dentist for
a specific practice location, unless the anesthesia provider holds an anesthesia permit at large. Administration
without a permit is grounds for disciplinary action against the licensee.
A. Conscious sedation I permit allows a licensed dentist to use only oral or rectal medications or
combined inhalation-enteral conscious sedation to obtain conscious sedation on an outpatient basis for dental
patients.
B. Conscious sedation II permit allows a licensed dentist to use parenteral injection to obtain
conscious sedation on an outpatient basis for dental patients.
C. Deep sedation/general anesthesia permit allows a licensed dentist to use deep sedation or general
anesthesia on an outpatient basis for dental patients.
D. Permit levels: The level of permits in order of increasing complexity are conscious sedation I,
conscious sedation II, and deep sedation/general anesthesia. When a permit is issued for one level, all levels of
lesser complexity are considered within the scope of that permit.
[16.5.15.11 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.11 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.12 PERMIT REQUIREMENTS:
A. Conscious sedation I:
(1) To administer enteral and/or combination inhalation-enteral conscious sedation (combined
conscious sedation) the dentist must satisfy one of the following criteria:
(a) must have completed training to the level of competency in enteral and/or combination
inhalation-enteral conscious sedation (combined conscious sedation) consistent with the that prescribed in part I and
part III of the current ADA guidelines for teaching the comprehensive control of anxiety and pain in dentistry;
(b) completion of an ADA accredited post-doctoral training program, which affords
comprehensive and appropriate training necessary to administer and manage enteral and/or combination inhalation-
enteral conscious sedation (combined conscious sedation ) consistent with that prescribed in part II of the current
ADA guidelines for teaching the comprehensive control of anxiety and pain in dentistry;
(c) current permit holders would be grand-fathered by New Mexico laws in effect at the time of
original issue of their permit.
77
(2) The dentist maintains a properly equipped facility for the administration of conscious sedation,
staffed with supervised clinical auxiliary personnel capable of handling procedures, problems and emergencies.
(3) The dentist and auxiliary clinical personnel have current basic life support certification.
(4) The patient's record shall reflect that the pre-operative patient evaluation, pre-operative
preparation, monitoring, recovery, discharge and documentation was performed.
(5) The following rules shall apply to the administration of enteral and/or combination inhalation-
enteral conscious sedation (combined conscious sedation) in the dental office.
(a) Administration of enteral and/or combination inhalation-enteral conscious sedation
(combined conscious sedation) by another duly qualified dentist, physician or CRNA requires the operating dentist
and his/her clinical staff to maintain current expertise in basic life support (BLS). The operating dentist shall ensure
that the acting anesthetist is duly licensed in New Mexico to provide anesthesia and be a member in good standing
of the staff of an accredited New Mexico hospital in the community in which the anesthesia occurs. The operating
dentist shall be responsible for notifying the anesthesia committee of the New Mexico board of dental health care of
all anesthetists used.
(b) A dentist administering enteral and/or combination inhalation-enteral conscious sedation
(combined conscious sedation) must document current successful completion of a basic life support (BLS) course.
(c) A dental facility shall be registered with the board as a conscious sedation I facility.
(d) The operating dentist must ensure that the anesthesia permit holder/provider provides for
the anesthetic management, adequacy of the facility, and the treatment of emergencies associated with the
administration of enteral and/or combined conscious sedation, including immediate access to pharmacologic
antagonists, if any, and appropriately sized equipment for establishing a patent airway and providing positive
pressure ventilation with oxygen.
B. Conscious sedation II:
(1) To administer parenteral conscious sedation the dentist must satisfy one of the following criteria:
(a) completion of a comprehensive training program in parenteral conscious sedation that
satisfies the requirements described in part III of the current ADA guidelines for teaching the comprehensive control
of anxiety and pain in dentistry;
(b) 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 parenteral
conscious sedation;
(c) current permit holders would be grandfathered by New Mexico laws in effect at the time of
original issue of their permit.
(2) The dentist maintains a properly equipped facility for the administration of conscious sedation in
accordance with the current ADA guidelines for the use of conscious sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia
for dentists.
(3) The office is staffed with supervised clinical auxiliary personnel capable of handling procedures,
problems and emergencies incident thereto.
(4) The dentist and auxiliary clinical personnel have current basic life support certification.
(5) The patient's record shall reflect that the pre-operative patient evaluation, pre-operative
preparation, monitoring, recovery, discharge and documentation was performed in accordance with the current
ADA guidelines for the use of conscious sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia for dentists.
(6) The dentist passes the examination and receives approval after facility inspection by the
anesthesia committee or designated examiner.
(7) The following requirements shall apply to the administration of parenteral conscious sedation in
the dental office.
(a) Administration of parenteral conscious sedation by another duly qualified dentist, physician
or CRNA requires the operating dentist and his/her clinical staff to maintain current expertise in basic life support
(BLS). The operating dentist shall ensure that the acting anesthetist is certified in advanced cardiac life support
(ACLS), is duly licensed in New Mexico to provide anesthesia and is a member in good standing of the staff of an
accredited New Mexico hospital. The operating dentist shall be responsible for notifying the anesthesia committee
of the New Mexico board of dental health care of all anesthetists used.
(b) A dentist administering parenteral conscious sedation must document current successful
completion of:
(i) a basic life support (BLS) course;
(ii) advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or an appropriate equivalent as approved by the
anesthesia committee.
78
(c) A dental facility utilizing dentist, physician or CRNA anesthetists shall be registered with
the board as a conscious sedation II facility and the facility and staff shall be evaluated as such.
(d) The operating dentist must ensure that the anesthesia permit holder/provider is responsible
for the anesthetic management, adequacy of the facility, and the treatment of emergencies associated with the
administration of parenteral conscious sedation, including immediate access to pharmacologic antagonists, if any,
and appropriately sized equipment for establishing a patent airway and providing positive pressure ventilation with
oxygen.
C. Deep sedation/general anesthesia:
(1) To administer deep sedation/general anesthesia, the dentist must satisfy one of the following
criteria:
(a) completion of an advanced training program in anesthesia and related subjects beyond the
undergraduate dental curriculum that satisfies the requirements described in part II of the current ADA guidelines
for teaching and comprehensive control of anxiety and pain in dentistry;
(b) completion of an ADA 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 these rules;
(c) current permit holders would be grandfathered by New Mexico laws in effect at the time of
original issue of their permit.
(2) The dentist maintains a properly equipped facility for the administration of deep sedation or
general anesthesia in accordance with the current ADA guidelines for the use of conscious sedation, deep sedation
and general anesthesia for dentists.
(3) The office is staffed with supervised clinical auxiliary personnel capable of handling procedures,
problems and emergencies incident thereto.
(4) The dentist and auxiliary clinical personnel have current basic life support certification.
(5) The patient's record shall reflect that the pre-operative patient evaluation, pre-operative
preparation, monitoring recovery, discharge and documentation was performed in accordance with the current ADA
guidelines for the use of conscious sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia for dentists.
(6) The dentist passes the examination and receives approval after facility inspection by the
anesthesia committee or designated examiner.
(7) The following rules shall apply to the administration of deep sedation/general anesthesia in the
dental office.
(a) Administration of deep sedation/general anesthesia by another duly qualified dentist,
physician or CRNA requires the operating dentist and his/her clinical staff to maintain current expertise in basic life
support (BLS). The operating dentist shall ensure that the acting anesthetist is certified in advanced cardiac life
support (ACLS), is duly licensed in New Mexico to provide anesthesia and is a member in good standing of the
staff of an accredited New Mexico hospital. The operating dentist shall be responsible for notifying the anesthesia
committee of the New Mexico board of dental health care of all anesthetists used.
(b) A dentist administering deep sedation/general anesthesia must document current, successful
completion of an advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) course, or an equivalent as approved by the anesthesia
committee.
(c) A dental facility utilizing dentist, physician or CRNA anesthetists shall be registered with
the board as a deep sedation/general anesthesia facility and the facility and staff shall be evaluated as such.
(d) The operating dentist must ensure that the anesthesia permit holder/provider is responsible
for the anesthetic management, adequacy of the facility, and the treatment of emergencies associated with the
administration of deep sedation and general anesthesia, including immediate access to pharmacologic antagonists
and appropriately sized equipment for establishing a patent airway and providing positive pressure ventilation with
oxygen. Advanced airway equipment, resuscitation medications and a defibrillator must also be immediately
available. Appropriate pharmacologic agents must be immediately available if known triggering agents of
malignant hyperthermia are part of the anesthesia plan.
D. Anesthesia permit at large: This permit allows the holder to provide anesthesia services to patients
in dental offices on an out-patient basis. The holder of the "anesthesia permit at large" assumes all responsibility for
the administration of the sedation or anesthesia in the dental office.
(1) To hold an "anesthesia permit at large" a dentist must meet the requirements of Subsection C of
16.5.12 NMAC deep sedation/general anesthesia.
(2) The holder of a "permit at large" may be evaluated and inspected by the anesthesia committee as
deemed necessary to assure safety to the public.
79
(3) The holder of such a permit agrees to have available at all times all monitors, emergency
equipment, and other necessary drugs and materials when administering conscious sedation, deep sedation , and
general anesthesia.
(4) The permit holder will inform the board of all dental facilities where anesthesia services are to be
provided and follow all other procedures as outlined in Subsection C of 16.5.15.12 NMAC, deep sedation/general
anesthesia.
[16.5.15.12 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.12 NMAC, 3-17-05; A, 07-16-07]
16.5.15.13 REPORTING ADVERSE INCIDENTS: Each licensed dentist must submit a written report to
the board within a period of thirty days of any significant morbidity or mortality or other incident which results in
temporary or permanent physical or mental injury of a patient during, or as a result of, nitrous oxide inhalation
analgesia, conscious sedation administered via oral, rectal, or parenteral routes, deep sedation, or general anesthesia.
The report is required regardless of the need for hospitalization after the incident and shall include the following:
A. description of the dental procedure;
B. description of the pre-operative physical condition of the patient;
C. list of drugs and dosage administered and route of administration;
D. description in detail of techniques utilized in administering the drugs utilized;
E. the names of auxiliary personnel in attendance; and
F. description of the adverse occurrence to include the following: detailed description of symptoms,
of any incident; treatment initiated on the patient; response of the patient to the treatment; description of the patients
condition on termination of treatment; and, copies of the patient record, medical history and operative report.
[16.5.15.13 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.13 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.14 FAILURE TO REPORT: Failure to comply with the reporting requirements of 16.5.15.13
NMAC of this part shall be grounds for disciplinary action against the licensee. In accordance with the provisions
of the Uniform Licensing Act, the board may take any actions enumerated in 16.5.16 NMAC, as well as revoke the
anesthesia permit.
[16.5.15.14 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.14 NMAC, 3-17-05]
16.5.15.15 PERMIT APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
A. Applications may be obtained from the board office. The completed application, accompanied by
the required permit fee as defined in 16.5.5 NMAC, is forwarded to the anesthesia committee for evaluation.
B. Temporary permits: The anesthesia committee evaluates the application and identifies any
additional information required. If the application appears to be in order, the anesthesia committee may recommend
the board issue a temporary permit. Temporary permits allow time to complete processing of the application,
administer the examination and inspect the facility.
(1) A dentist having a valid temporary dental license in good standing may apply for a CSI, CSII and
deep sedation temporary anesthesia permit not to exceed the term of the first temporary license. After receipt of
proper documentation, and at the discretion of the anesthesia committee or anesthesia designator, the application
may be approved by the board at the next regular scheduled meeting.
(2) The temporary permit shall not be valid for more than 12 months.
(3) The permit application fee includes the cost of the temporary permit and the initial permit.
(4) A temporary permit shall be revoked by the board on the following grounds:
(a) the applicant fails the anesthesia committee's examination;
(b) the applicant is found to be practicing outside the recognized standard of care in regard to
administration of anesthesia;
(c) or the applicant fails to cooperate with the timely scheduling of the examination and facility
inspection.
C. Examination/evaluation: The anesthesia committee will schedule the examination and facility
inspection, when required, with the applicant. The anesthesia committee uses the American association of oral and
maxillofacial surgeons office anesthesia evaluation manual as a guide for the examinations. Incomplete applications
will be returned by the anesthesia committee to the board office with a clear indication of the deficient areas.
D. Final approval: After final evaluation of the application and examination results, the anesthesia
committee recommends final action on the application to the board. The board makes the final determination on
approval of the permit. If an application is denied for failure to meet the requirements of 16.5.15.10 NMAC of this
part, the areas of non-compliance will be identified and the applicant may re-apply when the requirements are met.
80
[16.5.15.15 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.15 NMAC, 3-17-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-17-08]
16.5.15.16 PERMIT EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL:
A. Expiration: Anesthesia permits are issued for six years from the last day of the month in which
the initial permit was issued.
B. Renewal: Renewal applications will be sent to each dentist prior to the expiration date of the
anesthesia permit. The completed application, along with the required fee must be returned to the board office prior
to permit expiration. The permit renewal application will be forwarded to the anesthesia committee, which will
schedule a re-examination for holders of conscious sedation II and general anesthesia permits.
C. Education requirements: Any holders of any permit level holding CSI, CSII, deep sedation and
AAL are required to have a minimum of five hours of continuing education for the permit renewal for every six
years in medical emergencies, air way management, pharmacology, or anesthesia related topics.
D. New facility evaluation: A dentist who holds a conscious sedation II or general anesthesia permit
and who relocates his practice requires a new permit based on re-examination. The permit fee will be charged and
the new permit will be issued in accordance with Subsection B or C of 16.5.15.12 NMAC.
E. Re-examination/evaluation: The board may require a re-examination or a re-evaluation of the
credentials, facilities, equipment, personnel, and procedures of a permit holder to determine if the dentist is currently
qualified to administer anesthesia. The board or its agents shall notify the dentist to be re-examined or re-evaluated
180 days in advance of permit expiration. The notification will indicate the content and format of the
examination/evaluation.
F. Permit Expiration: Failure of a dentist to renew his license and permit, or to schedule a required
office re-evaluation within thirty days of receipt of the notification, or failure on the part of the licensee to
successfully complete the examination/evaluation, will cause the permit to expire.
G. Verification of continuing education: The board will select renewal application for verification of
continuing education. Audit requests will be included with the renewal notice and those selected individuals will be
asked to submit proof of compliance with the continuing education requirements. Continuing education records
may be audited by the board at any time. The records identified in Subsection F of 16.5.1.15 NMAC are considered
acceptable forms of documentation. Continuing education records must be maintained for one year following the
renewal cycle in which they are earned. Additionally and at renewal time, holders of any permit level may be
requested to demonstrate competency in maintenance of airway patency to the anesthesia committee, it’s designated
examiner or the board either on a “board approved” simulator, or other device as may be acceptable to the board.
There may be an announced audit of any permit holder by the anesthesia committee or by the board designated
examiner during the permitted time for the purpose of demonstrating airway management and airway competency,
either on the board designated model or other device approved by the board.
[16.5.15.16 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.15.16 NMAC, 3-17-05; A, 07-16-07]
HISTORY OF 16.5.15 NMAC:
Pre NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
Article XIV, Administration Of Nitrous Oxide Inhalation Analgesia, Conscious Sedation, Deep Sedation, And
General Anesthesia, filed 09-04-86;
BOD Rule 13, Administration Of Nitrous Oxide Inhalation Analgesia, Conscious Sedation, Deep Sedation, And
General Anesthesia, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DS 8-95, Dentists, Analgesia Administration, filed 07-31-95.
History of Repealed Material: 85-1, Repealer, filed 10-29-85.
16 NMAC 5.15, Dentists, Analgesia Administration (filed 09-17-96), repealed 05-31-2002.
Other History:
BODHC Rule DS 8-95, Dentists, Analgesia Administration (filed 07-31-95); renumbered, reformatted and replaced
by 16 NMAC 5.15, Dentists, Analgesia Administration, effective 09-30-96;
16 NMAC 5.15, Dentists, Analgesia Administration (filed 09-17-96), replaced by 16.5.15 NMAC, Dentists,
Analgesia Administration, effective 05-31-2002.
81
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 16 DENTISTS, DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS, LICENSE REVOCATION OR
SUSPENSION FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
16.5.16.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.16.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.16.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.16 NMAC apply to all active license holders and applicants for
licensure. These provisions may also be of interest to anyone who may wish to file a complaint against a dentist
licensed by the board.
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.16.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.16 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978, Section 61-5A-21 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.16.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.16.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.5, 12-14-00; A, 07-19-10]
16.5.16.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures for filing complaints against licensees, the
disciplinary actions available to the board, the authority to issue investigative subpoenas and to further define
actions by a licensee which are considered incompetent or unprofessional practice.
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.6, 12-14-00]
16.5.16.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Addiction” means a neurobehavioral syndrome with genetic and environmental influences that
result in psychological dependence on the use of substances for their psychic effects. It is characterized by
behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use; compulsive use; continued use
despite harm; and craving. Physical dependence and tolerance are normal physiological consequences of extended
opioid therapy for pain and should not by themselves be considered addiction.
B. “Chronic pain” means a pain state which is persistent and in which the cause of the pain cannot be
removed or otherwise treated.
C. “Drug abuser” means a person who takes a drug or drugs for other than legitimate medical
purposes.
D. “Pain” means an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with inflammation or
with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such inflammation or damage.
E. “Patient abandonment” means withdrawing a patient from treatment without giving reasonable
notice or providing a competent replacement provider.
F. “Physical dependence” means a state of adaptation that is manifested by a drug-specific
withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cessation, rapid dose reduction, decreasing blood level of the
drug, administration of an antagonist, or a combination of these.
G. “Tolerance” means a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in
a diminution of one or more of the drug’s effects over time.
[9-30-96; 16.5.16.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.7, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.16.8 COMPLAINTS: Disciplinary proceedings may be instituted by sworn complaint of any person,
including members of the board and committee. Any hearing held pursuant to the complaint shall conform with the
provisions of the Uniform Licensing Act, the Dental Health Care Act or the Impaired Dentists and Dental Hygienists
Act.
[9-13-69...5-31-95; 16.5.16.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.8, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-12]
82
16.5.16.9 ACTIONS:
A. The board may fine, deny, revoke, suspend, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if the board
determines the licensee is guilty of violating any of the provisions of the Act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the
Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act, or these Rules.
B. The board may reprimand, censure, or require licensees to fulfill additional continuing education
hours within limited time constraints for violations of the Act or Rules.
[9-13-69, 4-29-82, 5-31-95; 16.5.16.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.9, 12-14-00]
16.5.16.10 GUIDELINES: The board shall use the following as guidelines for disciplinary action.
A. “Gross incompetence” or “gross negligence” means, but shall not be limited to, a significant
departure from the prevailing standard of care in treating patients.
B. “Unprofessional conduct” means, but is not limited to because of enumeration:
(1) performing, or holding oneself out as able to perform, professional services beyond the scope of
one’s license and field or fields of competence as established by education, experience, training, or any combination
thereof; this includes, but is not limited to, the use of any instrument or device in a manner that is not in accordance
with the customary standards and practices of the dental profession;
(2) failure to refer a patient, after emergency treatment, to his/her regular dentist and inform the latter
of the conditions found and treated;
(3) failure to release to a patient copy of that patient’s records and x-rays regardless whether patient
has an outstanding balance;
(4) failure to seek consultation whenever the welfare of the patient would be safeguarded or advanced
by referral to individuals with special skills, knowledge, and experience;
(5) failure to advise the patient in simple understandable terms of the proposed treatment, the
anticipated fee, the expectations of success, and any reasonable alternatives;
(6) failure of a dentist to comply with the following advertising guidelines, no person shall:
(a) practice dentistry under the name of a corporation, company, association, limited liability
company, or trade name without full and outward disclosure of his/her full name, which shall be the name used in
his/her license or renewal certificate as issued by the board, or his/her commonly used name;
(b) practice dentistry without displaying his/her full name as it appears on the license issued by
the board on the entrance of each dental office;
(c) fail to include in all advertising media for the practice (excluding building signage and
promotional items) the dentist’s name, address and telephone number or direct reference where the names of the
dentist(s) can be found;
(d) advertise a practice in a false, fraudulent or misleading manner; if the name of the practice
or office contains one of the American dental association recognized specialties and only a general dentists performs
that service, the advertisement, signage, or broadcast media must say “services provided by a general dentist”, so as
not to imply that a specialist is performing such procedures; and
(e) advertise as a specialist unless the dentist is licensed by the board to practice the specialty
or unless the dentist has earned a post-graduate degree or certificate from an accredited dental college, school of
dentistry of a university or other residency program that is accredited by commission on dental accreditation
(CODA) in one of the specialty areas of dentistry recognized by the American dental association.
(7) failure to use appropriate infection control techniques and sterilization procedures;
(8) deliberate and willful failure to reveal, at the request of the board, the incompetent, dishonest, or
corrupt practices of another dentist licensed or applying for licensure by the board;
(9) accept rebates, or split fees or commissions from any source associated with the service rendered
to a patient; provided, however, the sharing of profits in a dental partnership, association, HMO or DMO, or similar
association shall not be construed as fee-splitting, nor shall compensating dental hygienists or dental assistants on a
basis of percentage of the fee received for the overall service rendered be deemed accepting a commission;
(10) prescribe, dispense or administer drugs outside the scope of dental practice;
(11) charge a patient a fee which is not commensurate with the skill and nature of services rendered,
such as to be unconscionable;
(12) sexual misconduct;
(13) breach of ethical standards, an inquiry into which the board will begin by reference to the code
of ethics of the American dental association;
(14) the use of a false, fraudulent or deceptive statement in any document connected with the practice
of dentistry;
83
(15) employing abusive billing practices;
(16) fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in any renewal or reinstatement application;
(17) violation of any order of the board, including any probation order;
(18) injudicious prescribing, administration, or dispensing of any drug or medicine;
(19) failure to report to the board any adverse action taken by any licensing board, peer review body,
malpractice insurance carrier or any other entity as defined by the board or committee; the surrender of a license to
practice in another state, surrender of membership on any medical staff or in any dental or professional association
or society, in lieu of, and while under disciplinary investigation by any authority;
(20) negligent supervision of a dental hygienist or dental assistant;
(21) cheating on an examination for licensure; or
(22) failure to comply with the terms of a signed collaborative practice agreement;
(23) failure of a dentist of record, or consulting dentist, to communicate with a collaborative practice
dental hygienist in an effective professional manner in regard to a shared patient’s care under part 17 of these rules;
(24) assisting a health professional, or being assisted by a health professional that is not licensed to
practice by a New Mexico board, agency or commission;
(25) failure to make available to current patients of record a reasonable method of contacting the
treating dentist or on-call service for dental emergencies; dental practices may refer patients to an alternate urgent
care or emergency facility if no other option is available at the time, or if the contacted dentist deems it necessary for
the patient’s well-being;
(26) conviction of either a misdemeanor or a felony punishable by incarceration;
(27) aiding and abetting a dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary or community dental
health coordinator who is not properly certified;
(28) patient abandonment;
(29) habitually addicted as defined in NMSA 1978, Sections 61.5A-21 4 & 6 or 61.5B-3 (C) and (D)
habitual or excessive use or abuse of drugs, as defined in the Controlled Substances Act [30-31-1 NMSA 1978] or
habitual or excessive use or abuse of alcohol;
(30) failure of the licensee to furnish the board; its investigators or representatives with information
requested by the board;
(31) failure to appear before the board when requested by the board in any disciplinary proceeding;
and
(32) failure to be in compliance with the Parental Responsibility Act NMSA1978, Section 40-5A-3
seq.
[9-13-69, 10-21-70, 4-11-81, 3-9-89, 3-11-89,10-16-92, 5-31-95, 6-4-96, 2-14-00; 16.5.16.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16
NMAC 5.16.10, 12-14-00; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
16.5.16.11 INVESTIGATIVE SUBPOENAS: The complaint committee of the board is authorized to issue
investigative subpoenas and to employ experts with regard to pending investigations.
[5-31-95; 16.5.16.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.16.11, 12-14-00; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-17-08]
16.5.16.12 REVOCATION OF LICENSE FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: A licensee whose license
is revoked for disciplinary actions shall:
A. provide proof of written notification of practice closure to all patients currently under active
treatment;
B. notification to patients should include where and how dental treatment records may be obtained
and contact information for dentists available; and
C. provide to the board the location where all active dental treatment records will be maintained for a
minimum of six years; active treatment records are records of patients treated in the two years previous to the date of
closure; the notification to the board shall include the name, address, and telephone number of the person who is
serving as the custodian of the records.
[16.5.16.12 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
16.5.16.13 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED LICENSE FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: A
licensee whose license has been revoked for disciplinary actions may request reinstatement of the license after the
terms of the settlement agreement have been met. Upon approval from the board and receipt of the request for
reinstatement, board staff shall send an application for reinstatement of license.
84
A. Along with the completed application, the request for reinstatement shall include the reinstatement
fee, the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, and proof of the following continuing education courses:
(1) 20 hours of approved continuing education courses related to the clinical practice of dentistry, per
year of revocation; at least 20 of these hours shall be in the 12 months previous to the request;
(2) proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(3) proof of infection control course within the past 12 months; and
(4) 60 hours of continuing education required for the last triennial renewal cycle of active licensure;
these hours may include continuing education identified at the time of revocation as well as any continuing
education taken during the revoked period.
B. Applicant shall authorize the following agencies to send verification of status directly to the board
office:
(1) drug enforcement administration (DEA), and
(2) American association of dental examiners clearinghouse.
C. The board will obtain electronic verification of applicant status from the national practitioners’
data bank.
D. Verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession. Verification shall be sent directly to the board office from the other
state(s) board, shall include a raised seal, and shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number,
and other information contained on the form.
E. The board at the next regularly scheduled meeting shall review the request for reinstatement,
including a statement of the applicant's activities during the period of revocation and information on any existing
impairment. If the board finds the application in order and is satisfied the applicant has fulfilled all required
continuing education, the license may be reinstated and the previous license number reassigned. The reinstated
license will expire as defined in 16.5.11 NMAC.
F. A dentist with a license in revocation status may not practice dentistry in New Mexico until proof
of active licensure is received from the board office.
G. If reinstatement of a revoked license is not requested within three years after settlement agreement
has been met, application for a new license shall be made by examination or credentials in order to practice dentistry
in New Mexico.
[16.5.16.13 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
16.5.16.14 REINSTATEMENT OF SUSPENDED LICENSE FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: For
licenses suspended for greater than six months; a licensee whose license has been suspended for disciplinary actions
in addition to meeting the terms of the settlement agreement shall also meet the following conditions before
reinstatement of licensure:
A. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dentistry, or other health care profession; verification shall be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s)
board, shall include a raised seal, and shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and other
information contained on the form;
B the board at the next regularly scheduled meeting shall review the request for reinstatement,
including a statement of the applicant's activities during the period of suspension and information on any existing
impairment; the reinstated license will expire as defined in 16.5.11 NMAC; and
C. a dentist with a license in suspended status may not practice dentistry in New Mexico until proof
of active licensure is approved by the board and issued by the board office.
[16.5.16.14 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.16 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
85
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 03-11-81;
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 01-12-82;
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 03-30-82;
BOD Rule 11, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DS 9-95, Dentists, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material:
Article XIV, Repeals BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 2-12-73.
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.16, Dentists, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.16, Dentists, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to
16.5.16 NMAC, Dentists, Disciplinary Proceedings, effective 12-14-00.
86
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 17 DENTISTS AND DENTAL HYGIENISTS, COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE
16.5.17.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.17.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.17 NMAC apply to all dentists, dental hygienists and dental
assistants who work in a collaborative practice arrangement.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.17.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.17 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-4 (1999 Repl. Pamp.).
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.17.4 DURATION: Permanent
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.17.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: February 14, 2000, unless a different date is cited at the end of a section.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.5, 12-14-00; A, 4/16/08]
16.5.17.6 OBJECTIVE: To regulate the collaborative practice of dental hygiene in New Mexico.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.6, 12-14-00]
16.5.17.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Acting consulting dentist” means a dentist who meets the qualifications of a consulting dentist
who agrees to act as the consulting dentist when that dentist will be away from his/her practice for more than two
weeks. An approved collaborative agreement shall be signed by the acting consulting dentist and the licensed dental
hygienist prior to the consulting dentist leaving.
B. “Collaborative practice agreement” means a written agreement between a dentist who meets the
qualifications of 16.5.17.9 NMAC to be a consulting dentist as defined in 16.5.17 NMAC of these rules, and a
collaborative practice dental hygienist. This agreement shall follow the format as determined by the board and
committee. A new agreement shall be signed and submitted to the board for approval each renewal period.
C. “Collaborative practice of dental hygiene” means the science of the prevention and treatment of
oral disease through the provision of educational, assessment, preventive, clinical and other therapeutic services as
specified in Section 61-5A 4(B) in a cooperative working relationship with a consulting dentist but without general
supervision, as set forth by the rules jointly established by the board and committee.
D. “Consulting (collaborative) dentist” means a dentist who meets the qualifications specified in
16.5.17.9 NMAC of this rule and who agrees to serve or continues to serve as a patient's dentist of record in
collaboration and consultation with the practice dental hygienist as specified in the rules.
E. “Non-participating dentist” is a dentist who does not wish to collaborate with a collaborative
practice dental hygienist.
F. “Standard collaborative practice protocols” is the protocol to be used by the collaborative practice
dental hygienist to treat a patient, as specified in 16.5.17.13 NMAC of this part.
G. “Verbal prescription or orders” means instructions not communicated in written form, shall be
recorded in the patient's record or the protocol agreement by both the collaborative hygienist and the consulting
dentist when given.
H. “Written prescription orders” means instructions from the consulting dentist to the collaborative
hygienist to perform those allowable treatments requiring diagnosis and treatment plan, subject to the limitations of
16.5.17.12 NMAC of these rules, or directions written to modify the standard collaborative practice protocols, or the
collaborative practice agreement.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.7 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.7, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
87
16.5.17.8 CERTIFICATION FOR TE COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE OF DENTAL HYGIENE:
The board, based on the recommendation of the dental hygienists committee, will certify qualified dental hygienists
for collaborative practice.
A. Prerequisite requirements for certification. Each applicant for certification as a collaborative
practice dental hygienist shall possess the following qualifications:
(1) possess a current New Mexico dental hygiene license in good standing;
(2) have been engaged in the active practice of dental hygiene as defined in 61-5A-4(B) of the act for
not less than:
(a) 2400 hours of active practice for the past eighteen months; or
(b) a total of 3,000 hours of active practice and has been engaged in active practice for two of
the past three years;
(3) meet the educational criteria for licensure in Section 61-5A 13 (A) of the act; and
(4) have 15 hours of continuing education in clinical dental hygiene in the 12 months prior to
certification, which includes courses in infection control and medical emergencies.
B. Documentation requirements. Each applicant for certification as a collaborative practice dental
hygiene shall submit a completed application, the required fees and following documentation:
(1) verification of a current active license;
(2) proof of the active practice of dental hygiene as defined in 16.5.17.8 NMAC of this part; this
proof may be in the form of notarized letters from employers, supervisors of dental clinics of one of the uniformed
services of the United States, or faculty administrators of accredited schools; if this documentation cannot be
obtained, the applicant may request to provide other proof of the required hours to the committee for consideration;
(3) basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR): proof of current certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(4) proof of 15 hours of continuing education related to the clinical practice of dental hygiene; and
(5) a copy of a signed collaborative practice agreement between a dental hygienist and a consulting
dentist.
C. Renewal requirements. Each dental hygienist certified for collaborative practice shall:
(1) submit a completed renewal application for certification for collaborative practice, along with the
triennial renewal application for their license, accompanied by the required fees as defined in 16.5.18 NMAC;
(2) complete 60 hours of continuing education every triennial renewal period; if the initial
certification period is less than three years, the required continuing education will be prorated at 20 hours per full
year of certification; 60 hours to include:
(a) basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR): proof of current
certification accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health
institute (ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(b) infection control: as further defined in 16.5.1.16 NMAC, a course in infection control
techniques and sterilization procedures per renewal period; and
(c) medical emergencies: as for new certification defined in Paragraph (4) of Subsection A of
16.5.17.8 NMAC;
(3) submit a current list of all consulting dentists to the board with each renewal application; and
(4) submit a copy of the signed collaborative practice agreement(s) and protocols between a dental
hygienist and a consulting dentist per renewal period.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.8, 12-14-00; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.17.9 QUALIFICATIONS FOR CONSULTING DENTISTS: A consulting dentist shall meet the
following qualifications:
A. possess a current New Mexico dental license in good standing;
B. maintains an active clinical general dentistry or public health practice within the state and within a
reasonable referral distance from the collaborative dental hygiene practice as determined by the board upon
recommendation of the dental hygienists committee.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.9, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.17.10 RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CONSULTING DENTIST: The consulting dentist shall:
A. in collaboration with the dental hygienist, provide for the patient's additional needed dental care;
B. be available to provide consultation to the collaborative practice dental hygienist;
88
C. make provisions for a qualified acting consulting dentist to act in his/her place should he/she be
away from his practice for more than two weeks;
D. maintain an appropriate level of contact and communication with the collaborative practice dental
hygienist;
E. in conjunction with the collaborative practice dental hygienist, be responsible and liable for acts
and omissions in the collaborative dental hygiene practice;
F. assure that each collaborative practice dental hygienist is duly licensed and certified for
collaborative practice by the board of dental health care;
G. maintain a separate and distinct collaborative practice agreement with each collaborative practice
dental hygienist for whom he/she serves as a consulting dentist;
H. provide verbal or written prescriptions to the collaborative practice dental hygienist for those
procedures requiring a diagnosis;
I. provide verbal or written prescriptions to the collaborative practice dental hygienist when the
consulting dentist deems it appropriate to provide exception to the standardized protocols;
J. provide a written prescription within seven business days following a verbal prescription or order;
K. maintain in the patients record a duplicate of the written prescriptions or orders as described in
Subsection H through Subsection J of 16.5.17.10 NMAC;
L. provide a written diagnosis and treatment recommendations from the records provided by the
collaborative practice dental hygienist to the patient and the hygienist within 30 days of receipt of such records;
M. each collaborative agreement will be kept on file by the collaborative practice dental hygienist and
the consulting dentist, the basic format of the agreement will be provided with the application by the board.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.10, 12-14-00; A, 04-16-08; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.17.11 RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE DENTAL HYGIENIST: The
collaborative practice dental hygienist shall:
A. refer each patient for a dental examination every 12 months, as well as anyone who may require
further dental services, to the patient's consulting dentist or to a dental specialist in the case of an emergency;
B. in conjunction with the consulting dentist, be responsible and liable for acts and omissions in the
collaborative dental hygiene practice;
C. assure that each consulting dentist is duly licensed by the board of dental health care; by
verification with the board office;
D. maintain a collaborative practice agreement with each consulting dentist; and
E. maintain an appropriate level of contact and communication with the consulting dentist;
F. contact the patient's dentist of record, if not a consulting dentist, prior to treating the patient to give
the dentist the option of becoming a consulting dentist;
G. offer the patient a choice of the collaborative practice dental hygienist's consulting dentists if the
patient's dentist of record chooses to be a non-participating dentist;
H. not to perform any treatment if the patient does not have an active consulting dentist on record
with the collaborative practice dental hygienist;
I. follow the standardized protocol unless modified by the consulting dentist by prescription or
order;
J. follow the verbal and written prescriptions and orders of the consulting dentist for those treatments
requiring a diagnosis;
K. forward all records and x-rays, or duplicates, to the consulting dentist within 14 days;
L. assure that each consulting dentist meets the requirements of a consulting dentist as stated in
16.5.17.9 NMAC; and
M. a copy of the collaborative agreement shall be on file with the board office; any changes to this
agreement shall be filed with the board office within 60 days.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.11 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.11, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.17.12 COLLABORATIVE DENTAL HYGIENE PRACTICE AND LIMITATIONS:
A. A dental hygienist in a collaborative practice may perform the procedures in a dental hygienist’s
scope of practice listed in 16.5.29 NMAC without general supervision while the hygienist is in a cooperative
working relationship with a consulting dentist, pursuant to rules promulgated by the board and the committee.
B. A collaborative practice dental hygienist may have more than one consulting dentist.
89
C. A dentist shall have a consulting agreement with no more than three collaborative practice dental
hygienists. The board may grant exception to this limitation for public health settings on a case-by-case basis.
D. The collaborative practice dental hygienist may own and manage a dental hygiene practice, or
enter into a contractual arrangement, in any location or setting in New Mexico.
E. The committee, through the board, may take any disciplinary action allowed by the Uniform
Licensing Act, against a dental hygienist certified in collaborative practice.
F. Collaborative dental hygienist can administer local anesthesia under general supervision as
defined in 16.5.28.8 NMAC and 16.5.28.12 NMAC.
G. A collaborative dental hygienist may assess for pit and fissure sealants without a dentist’s
evaluation as provided in Subsection D of 16.5.29.8 NMAC.
H. A collaborative dental hygienists may prescribe, administer and dispense topically applied fluoride
and topically applied antimicrobials as provided for in 16.5.29.11 NMAC.
I. Perform dental hygiene focused assessment.
J. A collaborative practice dental hygienist shall not:
(1) administer local anesthesia except under the general supervision of a dentist; and only if certified
to do so through the committee and ratified by the board;
(2) administer a drug or medication, except those directly indicated as dental topical therapeutic or
preventive agents; other therapeutic agents may only be dispensed if the collaborative practice dental hygienist holds
a class C clinic license; any drugs dispensed as a class C clinic (as designated and defined by the New Mexico board
of pharmacy) shall be on the specific individual authorization of a dentist:
(a) all non-controlled substance medications requiring a prescription or order from the dentist
may only be dispensed for immediate use in the collaborative practice dental hygienist office, and only on the
specific order or protocol from the consulting dentist; a log of these dispensing shall be kept and a copy of this log
shall be sent to the corresponding consulting dentist every six months; collaborative practice dental hygienists may
not dispense or administer any controlled substance;
(b) prescription drugs, which are kept in bulk at the collaborative practice dental hygienist's
office, to be dispensed or used by the collaborative practice dental hygienist as in 16.5.17.12 NMAC, shall be
purchased on an order or prescription by a consulting dentist;
(3) diagnose dental disease, but may advise the patient of suspected pathology and periodontal status;
(4) perform oral hygiene procedures on any patient identified as having a significant health risk from
the procedures; unless the patients' current health history has been reviewed by the patient’s dentist of record or the
consulting dentist; or for patients who reside in residential or long term care facilities, the patient's dentist or
physician;
(5) perform treatments requiring the diagnosis of a dentist without a prescription/order from the
consulting dentist; such treatments include but are not limited to, root planing, sealant application in presence of
cavitation, administration of therapeutic agents and other services defined in Section 61-5A-4(B) as within the scope
of dental hygiene practice but which require a dentists diagnosis;
(6) modify the standard collaborative practice protocol without a prescription or order from the
consulting dentist;
(7) take impressions for bleaching trays, deliver bleaching materials or provide systems of home
bleaching, or provide instructions to patients on using bleaching materials unless it is authorized on a case by case
basis by prescription from a consulting dentist;
(8) provide in office bleaching systems unless under indirect supervision of a consulting dentist.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.12 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.12, 12-14-00; A, 06-14-01; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-19-10; A,
01-09-12]
16.5.17.13 STANDARD COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE PROTOCOLS: All protocols will include but
are not limited to: review of health history charting of existing teeth and restorations, periodontal charting as
necessary, and notations of potential pathology. Protocols may be amended upon written order of the consulting
dentist. Time intervals for these protocols shall be established in the collaborative practice agreement as provided in
Subsection G of 16.5.17.13 NMAC.
A. Protocols for children 12 and under:
(1) appropriate panoramic or occlusal x-rays;
(2) two bitewing x-rays;
(3) prophylaxis/scaling;
(4) topical fluoride treatment;
90
(5) other radiographs as indicated by consultation with the dentist.
B. Protocols for teenagers:
(1) appropriate panoramic or full mouth radiographs;
(2) two or four bitewing x-rays;
(3) prophylaxis/scaling;
(4) topical fluoride treatment;
(5) other radiographs as indicated by consultation with the dentist.
C. Protocols for adults:
(1) full mouth or panoramic radiograph;
(2) bitewing radiographs annually;
(3) complete periodontal charting;
(4) prophylaxis/scaling or gross debridement and consultation with the consulting dentist if
periodontal assessment suggests periodontal involvement.
D. All other procedures not listed in the protocols shall require a prescription from the consulting
dentist as stated in Subsections H and N of 16.5.17.10 NMAC.
E. Guidelines for patient release forms, to include a disclaimer signed by the patient or legal guardian
that the dental hygiene services rendered do not preclude the need for routine examinations by a dentist.
F. Both the consulting dentist and the collaborative practice dental hygienist shall sign a copy of this
or amended protocol and keep on file.
G. Changes to practice protocol and agreements shall be prescribed in writing by the consulting
dentist and recorded by both the consulting dentist and the collaborative practice dental hygienist.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.13 NMAC - Rn, & A, 16 NMAC 5.17.13, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.17.14 DENTAL ASSISTANTS IN COLLABORATIVE DENTAL HYGIENE PRACTICE:
Collaborative practice dental hygienists may work with and supervise dental assistants, including dental assistants
certified to perform functions as defined in 16.5.39 NMAC of these rules.
[2-14-00; 16.5.17.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.14, 12-14-00]
History of 16.5.17 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: None.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.17, Dentists and Dental Hygienists, Collaborative Practice, filed 01-28-00;
16 NMAC 5.17, Dentists and Dental Hygienists, Collaborative Practice, filed 01-28-00 - renumbered, reformatted
and amended to 16.5.17 NMAC, Dentists and Dental Hygienists, Collaborative Practice, effective 12-14-00.
91
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 18 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, FEES
16.5.18.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.18.1, 06-14-01]
16.5.18.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.18 NMAC apply to all applicants for licensure; to active, retired,
expired and suspended licenses; to anyone who requests a list or labels of licensed dental hygienists, multiple copies
of the law or rules, or copies of public records.
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.17.2, 06-14-01]
16.5.18.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.18 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-14 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.18.3, 06-14-01]
16.5.18.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.18.4, 06-14-01]
16.5.18.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.18.5, 06-14-01; A, 12-30-02]
16.5.18.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish fees to generate revenue to support the cost of program
administration.
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.18.6, 06-14-01]
16.5.18.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9-30-96; 16.5.18.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.18.7, 06-14-01]
16.5.18.8 FEES:
A. All fees are non-refundable.
B. Application fee for licensure by examination is $350, which includes the initial licensing period.
C. Application fee for licensure by credentials is $400, which includes the initial licensing period.
D. An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the jurisprudence exam must submit an
additional fee of $50 to re-take the exam.
E. Triennial renewal fee for all dental hygienist licensees is $325:
(1) impaired fee is $15 per triennial renewal period plus renewal fee;
(2) late renewal fee of $100 after July 1 through September 1, plus renewal and impaired fees;
(3) cumulative late fee of $5 per day from August 1 to the date of the postmark or hand-delivery to the
board office plus renewal, late and impaired fees.
F. Fees for collaborative practice:
(1) application for certification for collaborative practice fee is $150;
(2) renewal of certification for collaborative practice fee is $50 at the time of each triennial license
renewal; the initial fee will be prorated at $20 per full year of certification.
G. Fees for temporary licenses and application:
(1) forty-eight hour license, application fee of $50, license fee of $50;
(2) six month license, application fee of $100, license fee of $100;
(3) twelve month license, application fee of $100, license fee of $150.
H. Application for certification in local anesthesia fee:
(1) by examination - $40;
(2) by credentials - $100 for application and credential review.
I. Reinstatement fee is $200.
J. Application for licensure for inactive status is $50.
K. Administrative fees:
(1) duplicate license fee is $25;
(2) multiple copies of the statute or rules are $10 each;
92
(3) copies cost $0.25 per page;
(4) list of current dental hygiene licensees is $300; an annual list of current licensees is available to
the professional association upon request at no cost; and
(5) mailing labels of current dental hygiene licensees is $300.
[3-14-73, 4-11-81, 3-7-88, 3-28-91, 5-31-95, 12-15-97, 8-16-99; 16.5.18.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.18.8, 06-
14-01; A, 9-30-02; A, 12-30-02; A, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-17-08; A, 06-10-09]
History of 16.5.18 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 03-12-81;
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 01-12-82;
Article, VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 03-30-82;
BOD Rule 7, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DH 6-95, Dental Hygienists, Fees, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.18, Dental Hygienists, Fees, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.18, Dental Hygienists, Fees, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to 16.5.18
NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Fees, effective 06-14-01.
93
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 19 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, LICENSURE BY EXAMINATION
16.5.19.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.19.1, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 19 of Chapter 5 apply to all applicants for licensure as a dental
hygienist by examination. Part 19 also applies to dental hygienists previously licensed in New Mexico who have
allowed their license to expire and do not qualify for licensure by credentials.
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.19.2, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 19 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, NMSA 1978 61-5A-13 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.19.3, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.19.4, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.19.5, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for application for licensure by examination.
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.19.6, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]:
[9-30-96; 16.5.19.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.19.7, 12-30-02]
16.5.19.8 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSE: Each applicant for licensure as a dental
hygienist by examination must possess the following qualifications:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental hygiene program consisting of at least
two academic years of dental hygiene curriculum as defined in Section 61-5A-13 of the act;
B. passed the dental hygiene national board examination as defined in Section 61-5A-13 A;
C. passed the WREB; CRDTS, NERB/ADEX; SRTA or other clinical examination approved by the
committee and ratified by the board; the results of the clinical examination are valid in New Mexico for a period not
to exceed five years:
(1) the applicant shall apply directly to WREB; CRDTS, NERB/ADEX or SRTA for examination,
and
(2) results of the clinical examination must be sent directly to the board office; and
D. passed the jurisprudence examination with a score of at least 75 percent;
E. the committee requires a level III background status report from a board designated professional
background service for new graduates, and a level II background status report from a board designated professional
background service for any other applicant; application for this service will be included with other application
materials; the applicant will apply and pay fees directly to a board designated professional background service to
initiate this service.
[3-14-73, 10-4-86, 3-7-88, 5-31-95; A, 12-15-97, A, 8-16-99; 16.5.19.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.19.8, 12-30-
02; A, 07-17-08; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.19.9 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant for a dental hygiene license by
examination must submit the required fees and following documentation:
A. completed application, signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months
affixed to the application; applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
B. official transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental hygiene program, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
C. copy of clinical examination score card or certificate;
94
D. copy of national board examination certificate or score card;
E. proof of having taken a course in infection control technique or graduation from dental hygiene
school within the past 12 months;
F. proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
G. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dental hygiene or a related profession; verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and other
information contained on the form; and
H. the appropriate status report from a board designated professional background service must be
received by the board office directly from a board designated professional background service; the results of the
background check must either indicate no negative findings, or if there are negative findings, those findings will be
considered by the committee.
[3-14-73, 3-7-88, 10-4-86, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 12-15-97; 16.5.19.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.19.9, 12-30-02; A,
04-16-08; A, 07-17-08; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.19.10 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE: An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the
jurisprudence exam must submit the re-examination fee as defined in Subsection D of 16.5.18.8 NMAC to re-take
the exam.
[8-11-89...9-30-96; 16.5.19.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.19.10, 12-30-02; A, 04-16-08]
16.5.19.11 LICENSURE PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required
documentation and fees, and successful completion of the examination requirements, a committee member will
review the application and may approve for licensure. The recommendation of the committee will be given to the
board to formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
A. Initial dental hygiene licenses are issued for a period not to exceed three years, as defined in Part
24.
B. Any application that cannot be approved by the committee member will be reviewed by the entire
committee at the next scheduled meeting.
[3-16-94...9-30-96; A, 8-16-99; 16.5.19.11 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.19.11, 12-30-02]
HISTORY OF 16.5.19 NMAC: [RESERVED]
95
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 20 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, LICENSURE BY CREDENTIALS
16.5.20.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.1 NMAC - Rn, & A, 16 NMAC 5.20.1, 06-14-01]
16.5.20.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.20 NMAC apply to all applicants for licensure as a dental
hygienist who are currently licensed in another state by examination.
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.2, 06-14-01]
16.5.20.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.20 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-13 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.3, 06-14-01]
16.5.20.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.4, 06-14-01]
16.5.20.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.5, 06-14-01; A, 04-17-06]
16.5.20.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for applicants for dental hygiene licensure based on
their licensure and practice in another state.
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.6, 06-14-01]
16.5.20.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.7, 06-14-01]
16.5.20.8 PREREQUISITE REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSE: Each applicant for licensure as a dental
hygienist by credentials must possess the following qualifications:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental hygiene program consisting of at least
two academic years of dental hygiene curriculum as defined in Section 61-5A-13, NMSA 1978 of the act;
B. completed 15 hours of continuing education during the past year; these hours must meet the
qualifications as defined in 16.5.1.15 NMAC;
C. passed the dental hygiene national board examination as defined in Section 61-5A-13 A., NMSA
1978;
D. passed the jurisprudence examination with a score of at least 75 percent;
E. holds a current active license in good standing obtained through a clinical examination in another
state or territory of the United States;
F. the committee requires a level II background status report from a board designated professional
background service; application for this service will be included with other application materials; the applicant will
apply and pay fees directly to a board designated professional background service to initiate this service;
G. all licenses held by the applicant must have been in good standing for two years prior to
application;
H. the committee may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant is
guilty of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists
Act, or these rules.
[3-28-91, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 8-16-99; 16.5.20.8 NMAC - Rn, & A, 16 NMAC 5.20.8, 06-14-01; A, 03-06-05, A, 04-
16-08; A, 7-17-08; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.20.9 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant for licensure by credentials must
submit the required fees and following documentation:
A. completed application, signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months
affixed to the application; applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
96
B. official transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental hygiene program, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
C. copy of national board examination certificate or score card;
D. proof of having taken a course in infection control technique within the past 12 months;
E. proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
F. proof of 15 hours of continuing education during the 12 months prior to application;
G. a status report must be received at the board office directly from a board designated professional
background service; the results of the board designated professional background service background check must
either indicate no negative findings or, if there are negative findings, those findings will be considered by the
committee:
(1) the committee may deny, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it is determined the applicant is
guilty of violating any of the provisions of the act, the Uniform Licensing Act, the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists
Act, or the rules;
(2) supplemental information may be requested by the committee; and
H. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dental hygiene or a related profession; verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and other
information contained on the form.
[3-28-91, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 8-16-99; 16.5.20.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.20.9, 06-14-01; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-
19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.20.10 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE: An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the
jurisprudence examination must submit the re-examination fee as defined in Subsection D of 16.5.18 NMAC to re-
take the exam.
[9-30-96; 16.5.20.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.10, 06-14-01; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.20.11 LICENSURE PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required
documentation and fees, and successful completion of the Jurisprudence Examination, a designee of the Committee
will review the application and may approve for licensure. The recommendation of the Committee will be given to
the Board to formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
A. Initial dental hygiene licenses are issued for a period not to exceed three years as defined in
16.5.24 NMAC.
B. Any application which cannot be approved by the delegate of the Committee will be reviewed by
the entire Committee at the next scheduled meeting.
[5-31-95, 9-30-96, A, 8-16-99; 16.5.20.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.20.11, 06-14-01]
History of 16.5.20 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 03-12-81;
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 01-12-82;
Article, VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 03-30-82;
BOD Rule 7, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DH 2-95, Dental Hygienists, Requirements for Licensure by Credentials, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.20, Dental Hygienists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.20, Dental Hygienists, Licensure by Credentials, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and
amended to 16.5.20 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Licensure by Credentials, effective 06-14-01.
97
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 21 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, TEMPORARY OR PUBLIC SERVICE LICENSURE:
16.5.21.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.21.1, 12-30-02]
16.5.21.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 21 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental hygienists applying for a
temporary or public service license to practice in New Mexico.
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.2, 12-30-02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 21 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, NMSA 1978 61-5A-14 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.3, 12-30-02]
16.5.21.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.4, 12-30-02]
16.5.21.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.21.5, 12-30-02]
16.5.21.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for application for temporary or public service
licensure as a dental hygienist.
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.6, 12-30-02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Entity” means a dental or dental hygiene organization, foundation or officially recognized study
club, which has a constitution, bylaws and whose officers or board of trustees are dentists or dental hygienists
licensed in good standing in the state.
B. “Good standing” means having an active dental hygiene license in a jurisdiction for a period of at
least two consecutive years immediately preceding the date of application. The committee as ratified by the board
shall consider stipulations, disciplinary, or administrative actions taken against a licensee by the issuing agency,
within the previous two years, when determining whether a license is in good standing.
C. “In the state” or “in this state” means that a program has a physical presence in New Mexico in the
form of a facility and a permanent faculty.
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.7, 12-30-02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.8 CATEGORIES OF TEMPORARY OR PUBLIC SERVICE LICENSES: Temporary or
public service dental hygiene licenses may be issued in the following categories for specific purposes, if education
and experience requirements are met.
A. Clinical educator.
(1) Dental hygienists, not currently licensed in New Mexico, who provide continuing education or
training that includes clinical demonstrations on live subjects must apply for temporary licensure. The temporary
license is issued for 48 hours (two days). If the course lasts longer than two days, additional 48 hour licenses may
be requested upon payment of the applicable fees.
(2) Dental hygienists, not currently licensed in New Mexico, who intend to serve as a faculty
member of an accredited dental hygiene program must apply for a temporary or public service license. The
temporary or public service license is issued for 12 months and may be renewed one time. Temporary or public
service licensees must be granted a license under the provisions of 16.5.19 NMAC or 16.5.21.15 NMAC prior to the
expiration date of the temporary or public service license to continue uninterrupted practice of dental hygiene in
New Mexico.
B. Public health dental hygiene. A dental hygienist may be granted temporary or public service
licensure to practice in a state institution, public health clinic or public health program approved or maintained by
the New Mexico department of health. The temporary or public service license holder is restricted to work
exclusively in the institution or program named on the application. A temporary or public service license may be
issued for six or 12 months and may be renewed one time. Temporary or public service licensees must be granted a
98
license under the provisions of 16.5.19 NMAC or 16.5.21.15 NMAC prior to the expiration date of the temporary or
public service license to continue uninterrupted practice of dental hygiene in New Mexico.
C. Presumptive public service licensure for charitable dental hygiene projects: A dental hygienists
not holding a license in the state may be granted a presumptive public service license for up to 72 hours to
participate in a committee approved, and ratified by the board, charitable project. Except as noted in this section the
dental hygienist shall otherwise be subject to the provisions of the dental practice act and the rules and regulations of
the board. The presumptive public service license is valid only when:
(1) the charitable project is approved by the board 45 days prior to the scheduled event;
(2) the dental hygienist receives no compensation for participating in the project;
(3) the project is sponsored by an entity as defined in 16.5.21.7 NMAC and that entity has been
approved by the committee, and ratified by the board, to undertake the charitable project;
(4) the dental hygienist holds a license in good standing in another jurisdiction and the license is
verified by the sponsoring entity;
(5) the dental hygienist has graduated from and holds a diploma from a dental hygiene school
accredited by the commission on dental accreditation and a copy of the diploma is on file with the sponsoring entity;
(6) upon request of the out-of-state dental hygienist shall produce copies of their diploma and license
in another jurisdiction;
(7) the dental hygiene care provided is within the scope and limits of the license the dental hygienist
holds in the other jurisdiction;
(8) the out-of-state dental hygienist works under the indirect supervision of a dentist licensed in this
state who is present at the charitable project;
(9) patients who receive dental hygiene care during the charitable project will be given a list of
dentists whom they can contact if post-operative care is needed;
(10) a charitable public service license is not eligible for conversion to any other temporary or public
service, regular license, or license by credentials, and
(11) no fee shall be required by the board for the presumptive public service license for a charitable
project.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.21.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.21.8, 12-30-02; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.9 REQUIREMENTS FOR TEMPORARY OR PUBLIC SERVICE LICENSURE:
Presumptive public service dental hygienist as defined in Subsection C of 16.5.21.8 NMAC are not required to
comply with Subsection C of this section. All other applicants for temporary or public service licensure must
possess each of the following qualification:
A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental hygiene program consisting of at least
two academic years of dental hygiene curriculum as defined in Section 61-5A-13; and
B. hold a valid license obtained through a clinical examination in another state or territory of the
United States;
C. applicants requesting a six or 12 month temporary or public service license are required to
successfully complete the jurisprudence examination.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.21.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.9, 12-30-02; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.10 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Except as otherwise required by Subsection C of
16.5.21.8 NMAC, presumptive public service dental hygienist do not need to comply with the following for
presumptive public service licensure. All other applicants for temporary or public service licensure must submit the
required fees and following documentation:
A. completed application, signed and notarized with a passport quality photo taken within six months
affixed to the application; applications are valid for one year from the date of receipt;
B. proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
C. copies of all valid licenses and a letter from the applicant attesting to the status of each license;
D. an affidavit from the New Mexico licensed dental hygienist or dentist who will sponsor the
applicant, attesting to the qualifications of the applicant and the activities the applicant will perform;
E. a list of activities to be practiced and the time period for which the temporary or public service
license is requested;
99
F. in addition, applicants requesting temporary or public service licensure in public health must
submit the following documentation:
(1) official transcripts or an original letter on letterhead with a raised embossed seal verifying
successfully passing all required courses from the dental hygiene program, to be sent directly to the board office
from the accredited program;
(2) copy of national board examination certificate or score card; and
(3) proof of having taken a course in infection control technique within the past 12 months.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.21.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.10, 12-30-02; A, 04-16-08; A, 09-18-10; A,
01-09-12]
16.5.21.11 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE: An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the
jurisprudence examination must submit the re-examination fee as defined in Subsection D of 16.5.18.8 NMAC to re-
take the exam.
[9-30-96; 16.5.21.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.11, 12-30-02; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.12 LICENSURE PROCEDURE:
A. Clinical Educator: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required documentation
and fees, a Committee member will review the application and may approve for licensure. The license will be read
into the Committee and Board records at the next scheduled meeting.
B. Public Health Dental Hygiene: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all required
documentation and fees, and successful completion of the jurisprudence examination, a Committee member will
review the application and may approve for licensure. The license will be read into the Committee and Board
records at the next scheduled meeting.
[3-14-73, 9-30-96; 16.5.21.12 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.21.12, 12-30-02]
16.5.21.13 LIMITATION ON LICENSE:
A. Temporary or public service licensees shall engage in only those activities specified on the
temporary or public service license for the time period designated.
B. Temporary or public service licensees shall only practice under the sponsorship, or in association
with, a licensed New Mexico dental hygienist or dentist.
C. Temporary or public service licensees and the approved sponsor or associate are responsible for
compliance with the act and these rules.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95; 16.5.21.13 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.21.13, 12-30-02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.14 RE-ISSUE PROCEDURES: To remain eligible for temporary or public service licensure;
temporary or public service license holders who are eligible for reissue per Paragraph (2) of Subsection A and
Subsection B of 16.5.21.8 NMAC must contact the board office three months prior to the expiration date to begin
the re-issue process. All requirements regarding re-issue are the same as the initial application as defined in
16.5.21.8 NMAC. The application, fee and proof of 15 hours of continuing education must be post-marked on or
before the expiration date.
[16.5.21.14 NMAC - N, 12-30-02; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.21.15 CONVERSION OF TEMPORARY LICENSE TO LICENSE BY CREDENTIALS OR
EXAMINATION: Temporary licenses may be renewed once for a 12 month time period. After that renewal the
license is no longer eligible for re-issue. If uninterrupted practice of dental hygiene in New Mexico is desired after
two years, then a temporary licensee must convert to a dental hygiene license by credentials or examination. Only
temporary licenses previously issued for 12 months are eligible for conversion to a permanent license by credential
or examination.
A. Following the completion of the requirements for licensure, some of which were submitted with
the temporary application, the applicant will complete an application for licensure by credentials.
B. Any additional licenses acquired during the time practicing under a temporary license must be
reported on the application for licensure by credentials or examination.
C. Any actions taken against the applicant’s license in any other jurisdiction while licensed in New
Mexico under a temporary license must be reported on the application for license by credentials or examination.
D. Upon receipt of a complete application a committee member shall approve a New Mexico license
by credential or examination unless there is any action pending against the temporary license. Then at the discretion
100
of the committee or its agent, the temporary license may be extended until pending action is settled. If action is
taken against the temporary license, conversion to a license by credentials or examination will be halted and the
temporary license will no longer be renewed.
[16.5.21.15 NMAC - N, 12-30-02; A, 09-18-10; A, 01-09-12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.21 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BODHC Rule DH 3-95, Dental Hygienists, Temporary License, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 3-95, Dental Hygienists, Temporary License, filed 05-05-95 was renumbered, reformatted and
amended into the first version of NMAC as 16 NMAC 5.21, Dental Hygienists, Temporary Licensure, filed 09-17-
96.
16 NMAC 5.21, Dental Hygienists, Temporary Licensure, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and amended to
16.5.21 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Temporary Licensure, effective 12-30-02.
101
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 23 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
16.5.23.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.23.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 23 of Chapter 5 apply to all licensed dental hygienists who are
applying to renew their license.
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 23 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-10 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.23.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish criteria for continuing education for dental hygienists licensed in
New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.23.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.8 HOURS REQUIRED: 45 hours of continuing education, a maximum of 30 hours can be on-line,
webinars or self-study are required during each triennial renewal cycle as defined in 16.5.1 NMAC. Continuing
education received after submission of renewal materials but prior to actual expiration date may be used for the
requirements of the next renewal cycle. Continuing education requirements are pro-rated at 15 hours per full year of
the initial licensing period. Initial licenses issued for less than a full year do not require continuing education for the
first renewal.
[11/21/75, 5/31/95; 16.5.23.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.8, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.23.9 COURSES REQUIRED: Continuing education coursework must contribute directly to the
practice of dental hygiene and must comply with the requirements of 16.5.1.15 NMAC of these rules. The
following courses are required for license renewal:
A. basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR): proof of current certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
B. infection control: as further defined in 16.5.1.16 NMAC, a course in infection control techniques
and sterilization procedures per renewal period.
[11/21/75, 4/12/92, 5/21/93, 5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.23.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.23.9, 04/17/06; A, 04/16/08;
A, 07/19/10; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.23.10 VERIFICATION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION: The committee will select renewal
applications for verification of continuing education. Audit requests will be included with the renewal notice and
those selected individuals will be asked to submit proof of compliance with the continuing education requirements.
Continuing education records may be audited by the committee at any time. The records identified in Subsection F
of 16.5.1.15 NMAC are considered acceptable forms of documentation. Continuing education records must be
maintained for one year following the renewal cycle in which they are earned.
[5/21/93, 9/30/96; 16.5.23.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.10, 04/17/06]
16.5.23.11 EMERGENCY DEFERRAL:
102
A. A licensee unable to fulfill the continuing education requirements may apply to the committee for
an emergency deferral of the requirements due to extenuating circumstances as defined in 16.5.1.7 NMAC.
Deferrals of up to four months may be granted by a designee of the committee.
B. A licensee practicing or residing outside the United States shall not be required to fulfill the
continuing education requirements for the period of the absence.
(1) The committee must be notified prior to license expiration that the licensee will be outside the
US, including the period of the absence.
(2) Upon return to the US, the licensee shall complete the continuing education required for the years
of practice within the US during the renewal cycle, or apply for an emergency deferral.
[3/11/89, 9/30/96; 16.5.23.1 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.23.1, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.23 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 3/12/81.
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 1/12/82.
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 3/30/82.
That applicable portion of Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings replaced by BOD Rule 12, Continuing Education
Requirements, filed 2/9/89.
That applicable portion of BOD Rule 12, Continuing Education Requirements replaced by BODHC Rule DH 5-95,
Dental Hygienists, Continuing Education Requirements, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 5-95, Dental Hygienists, Continuing Education Requirements (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered,
reformatted, amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.23, Dental Hygienists, Continuing Education Requirements,
effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.23, Dental Hygienists, Continuing Education Requirements (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.23 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Continuing Education Requirements effective
04/17/06.
103
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 24 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, LICENSE EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL
16.5.24.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 24 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental hygienists with a license to
practice in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 24 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish procedures for license issuance, expiration and renewal.
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.24.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.8 LICENSE EXPIRATION: Initial licenses expire on July 1 in the third year of licensure. No
license will be issued for longer than 36 months or less than 25 months.
[11/6/83, 9/30/96, 12/15/97, 8/16/99; 16.5.24.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.8, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.9 RENEWAL PERIOD AND EXPIRATION: After the initial license period, dental hygiene
licenses expire every three years on June 30. Dental hygiene licenses not renewed by July 1 are considered expired.
[3/14/73, 9/30/96, 8/16/99; 16.5.24.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.9, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.10 RENEWAL PROCESS: A completed renewal application, accompanied by the required fee as
set forth in 16.5.18.8 NMAC, along with the required proof of completion of 45 hours of continuing education as set
forth in 16.5.1.15 NMAC. The completed renewal application must be post-marked on or before July 1, of the
renewal year.
[3/14/73, 9/30/96, 8/16/99; 16.5.24.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.10, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.11 LICENSEE RESPONSIBILITY: The board assumes no responsibility for renewal applications
not received by the licensee for any reason. It is the licensee’s responsibility to make timely request for the renewal
form if one has not been received thirty days prior to license expiration. Incomplete renewal applications shall be
returned to the licensee for completion and may result in the assessment of a late renewal fee as set forth in
16.5.18.8 NMAC.
[5/31/95; 16.5.24.11 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.11, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.12 RENEWAL AFTER JUNE 30: Renewal applications post-marked after July 1, and prior to
August 1, of the renewal year must be accompanied by the completed renewal application with the required proof of
completion of 45 hours of continuing education as set forth in 16.5.23.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal
fee, impairment fee and the late fee as set forth in 16.5.18.8 NMAC.
[3/14/73, 9/30/96, 8/16/99; 16.5.24.12 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.12, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.13 RENEWAL AFTER AUGUST 1 AND BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1: Renewal applications post-
marked on or after August 1, but before September 1, of the renewal year, must be accompanied by the completed
104
renewal application with the required proof of completion of 45 hours of continuing education as set forth in
16.5.23.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, late fee and the cumulative late fee as set
forth in 16.5.18.8 NMAC.
[3/14/73, 5/31/95; 16.5.24.13 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.24.13, 04/17/06]
16.5.24.14 RENEWAL APPLICATION UNDELIVERABLE: If the notice of renewal is returned to the
office and the licensee has not sent a change of address, the revocation order will be considered undeliverable and
will not be mailed.
[5/31/95; 16.5.24.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.24.14, 04/17/06]
HISTORY OF 16.5.24 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 3/12/81.
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 1/12/82.
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 3/30/82.
BOD Rule 7, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DH 4-95, Dental Hygienists, Initial Licensing Period, Renewal, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 4-95, Dental Hygienists, Initial Licensing Period, Renewal (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered,
reformatted, amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.24, Dental lHygienists, License Expiration and Renewal,
effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.24, Dental Hygienists, License Expiration and Renewal (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.24 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, License Expiration and Renewal, effective 04/17/06.
105
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 25 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, RETIREMENT, INACTIVE AND REINSTATEMENT
16.5.25.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.1 NMAC - Rn & A, NMAC 5.25.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.25.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.25 NMAC apply to all licensed dental hygienists who plan to
retire or reinstate an active license to practice dental hygiene in New Mexico.
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.25.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.25 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978, Section 61-5A-17 (1996 Repl. Pamp.)
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.25.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.25.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.5, 12-14-00; A, 12-30-02]
16.5.25.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements and procedures to place an active dental hygiene
license in retirement status, inactive status or to reinstate the license to active status.
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.6, 12-14-00; A, 03-06-05]
16.5.25.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9-30-96; 16.5.25.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.7, 12-14-00]
16.5.25.8 RETIREMENT: A license to practice dental hygiene may be placed in retirement status one
time through the following procedures.
A. The request for retirement status must be made in writing to the board office prior to the expiration
of the current license. The written request must include the following information:
(1) the actual date of retirement; and
(2) a list of any continuing education courses taken since the last active and/or inactive license
renewal, including documentation required in section 16.5.1.15 NMAC.
B. Board staff shall acknowledge receipt of the request for retirement status and at the next meeting
of the committee the request for retirement will be placed on the agenda. Upon committee recommendation and
board approval of retirement status the licensee will be exempt from payment of the triennial renewal fees during the
period of retirement.
C. The committee may recommend denial of a request for retirement status if there are any current or
pending complaints or disciplinary actions against the licensee.
D. A licensee desiring to go from active to inactive must sign a waiver and stipulation provided by
the board foregoing the three year retirement.
[3-14-73...3-16-94, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.25.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.25.8, 12-14-00; A, 03-06-05]
16.5.25.9 INACTIVE: A license to practice dental hygiene may be placed in inactive status one time
through the following procedures.
A. The request for inactive status must be made by an application obtained from the board office
prior to the expiration of the current license or the three-year eligibility of retirement status. The written request
must include the following information:
(1) the actual date of inactivation request; and
(2) a list of any continuing education courses taken since the last license renewal, including
documentation set forth in 16.5.1.15 NMAC.
B. Board staff shall acknowledge receipt of application for inactive status and at the next meeting of
the committee the request for inactivation will be placed on the agenda.
C. The committee may recommend denial of a request for inactive status if there are any current or
106
pending complaints or disciplinary actions against the licensee.
[3-14-73, 3-11-89, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 1-1-99; 16.5.25.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.25.9, 12-14-00; A, 12-30-02;
N, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06]
16.5.25.10 REINSTATEMENT FROM RETIREMENT STATUS: A licensee whose license has been
placed in retirement status may request reinstatement of the retired license within three years of the date of
retirement as indicated in 16.5.25.8 NMAC. Upon receipt of the request for reinstatement, board staff shall send an
application for reinstatement of license.
A. Along with the completed application, the request for reinstatement must include the reinstatement
fee, the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, a completed application, and proof of the following continuing
education courses.
(1) There will be 10 CE hours/year of retirement, up to 30 hours, required for reinstatement.
(2) The requirements of the infection control hours and the basic life support hours taken in the past
12 months may be included toward these required hours:
(a) proof of infection control course within the past 12 months;
(b) proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
certification accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health
institute (ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(c) 45 hours of continuing education required for the last triennial renewal cycle of active
licensure; these hours may include continuing education identified at the time of retirement request as well as any
continuing education taken during the retirement period.
(3) Verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dental hygiene, or other health care profession. Verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other
state boards, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and
other information contained on the form.
B. The request for reinstatement from retirement status, including a statement of the applicant's
activities during the period of retirement and any existing impairments, shall be reviewed by a subcommittee as
designated by the chair. If the subcommittee finds the application in order and is satisfied the applicant has fulfilled
all required continuing education and submitted the fees, the subcommittee may approve the license reinstatement
and the previous license number reassigned. The license will be read into the committee and board records at the
next scheduled meeting. If the subcommittee finds that the application is not in order, the application will go to the
entire committee for review. The reinstated license will expire as defined in 16.5.24 NMAC.
C. A dental hygienist with a license in retirement status may not practice dental hygiene in New
Mexico until proof of active licensure is received from the board office.
D. If reinstatement of a retired license is not requested within three years of retirement and if the
licensee does not apply for inactive status, application for a new license must be made by examination or credentials
in order to practice dental hygiene in New Mexico.
[16.5.25.10 NMAC - Rn, 16.5.25.9 NMAC, 03-06-05 & A, 03-06-05; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.25.11 REINSTATEMENT FROM INACTIVE STATUS: A licensee whose license has been placed
in inactive status may request reinstatement of the inactive license to active license status within nine years of the
date of inactive status as indicated in 16.5.25.8 NMAC. Upon receipt of the request for reinstatement, board staff
shall send an application for reinstatement of license.
A. Along with the completed application, the request for reinstatement must include the reinstatement
fee, the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, and proof of the following continuing education courses:
(1) there will be 10 CE hours for each year of inactive status required for reinstatement; the hours
may be accumulated at any time during the year(s) of inactivation; the requirements of the infection control hours
and the basic life support hours, and medical emergency course taken in the past 12 months may be included toward
these required hours;
(2) proof of infection control course within the past 12 months;
(3) proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(4) proof of medical emergency course during the past 12 months;
(5) 45 hours of continuing education required for the last triennial renewal cycle of active licensure;
these hours may include continuing education identified at the time of retirement request as well as any continuing
107
education taken during the retirement period; and
(6) verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dental hygiene, or other health care profession; verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other
states boards, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number,
and other information contained on the form.
B. The request for reinstatement from inactive status, including a statement of the applicant's
activities during the period of inactivation and any existing impairment, shall be reviewed by a subcommittee as
designated by the chair. If the subcommittee finds the application in order and is satisfied the applicant has fulfilled
all required continuing education and submitted the fees, the subcommittee may approve the license reinstatement
and the previous license number reassigned. The license will be read into the committee and board records at the
next scheduled meeting. If the subcommittee finds that the application is not in order, the application will go to the
entire committee for review. The reinstated license will expire as defined in 16.5.24 NMAC.
C. A dental hygienist with a license in inactive status may not practice dental hygiene in New Mexico
until proof of active licensure is received from the board office.
D. If reinstatement of an inactive license is not requested within nine years of inactivation,
application for a new license must be made by examination or credentials in order to practice dental hygiene in New
Mexico or the license must be permanently retired.
[16.5.25.11 NMAC - N, 03-06-05; A, 04-17-06; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
History of 16.5.25 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
Article IX, Reinstatement of Dental Hygienist, filed 03-12-81;
Article X, Retirement of Dental Hygienist, filed 03-12-81;
BOD Rule 8, Retirement and Reinstatement of Dental Hygienists, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DH 7-95, Dental Hygiene, Retirement and Reinstatement, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material:
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry (filed 2-12-73) repealed by Article XIV,
filed 3/12/1981.
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 7-95, Dental Hygiene, Retirement and Reinstatement (filed 05-05-95) was renumbered,
reformatted, amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.25, Dental Hygienists, Retirement and Reinstatement, effective
09-30-96.
16 NMAC 5.25, Dental Hygienists, Retirement and Reinstatement (filed 09-17-96) was renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.25 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Retirement and Reinstatement, effective 12-14-00.
108
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 26 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, LICENSE REVOCATION FOR NON-RENEWAL
16.5.26.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.26.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 26 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental hygienists licensed in New
Mexico who do not submit an application for license renewal within 60 days of the license expiration date.
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 26 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.26.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures and policies for revocation of expired licenses and the
reinstatement of a license revoked for non-renewal.
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.26.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.26.8 REVOCATION OF LICENSE FOR NON-RENEWAL: Unless an application for license
renewal is received by the board office, or post-marked, before September 1, the license shall be revoked for non-
renewal.
[3/14/73, 5/31/95; 16.5.26.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.8, 04/17/06; A, 7/17/08]
16.5.26.9 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED LICENSE FOR NON-RENEWAL:
A. Within one year of the revocation notice, the license may be reinstated by payment of renewal and
reinstatement fees, compliance with continuing education for the previous renewal cycle and for the year of the
revocation. Applicants for reinstatement after one year of revocation shall apply as a new applicant and meet all
requirements for initial licensure.
B. Applicants for reinstatement shall provide for verification of licensure in all states where the
applicant holds or has held a license to practice dental hygiene, or other health care profession within the previous
year. Verification shall be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s) board, shall include a raised seal,
and shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number, and other information contained on the
form.
C. Upon receipt of a completed reinstatement of revoked license application, including all
documentation and fees, a dental hygienists committee member, will review and may approve the application. The
committee may formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
[3/14/73…5/31/95, 1/1/99; 16.5.26.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.26.9, 04/17/06; A, 04/16/08; A, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.26 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the State Records
Center:
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 3/12/81.
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 1/12/82.
Article VIII, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 3/30/82.
BOD Rule 7, Licensing of Dental Hygienists, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DH 4-95, Dental Hygienists, Initial Licensing Period, Renewal, filed 5/5/95.
109
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
That applicable portion of BODHC Rule DH 4-95, Dental Hygienists, Initial Licensing Period, Renewal (filed
5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.26, Dental Hygienists, License Revocation for
Non-Renewal, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.26, Dental Hygienists, License Revocation for Non-Renewal (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.26 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, License Revocation for Non-Renewal, effective
04/17/06.
110
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 28 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, LOCAL ANESTHESIA CERTIFICATION
16.5.28.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.28.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 28 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental hygienist who hold or who are
applying for certification to administer local anesthesia.
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 28 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-4 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.28.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish guidelines and procedures for the regulation of dental hygienists who
administer local anesthesia in an office located in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.7 DEFINITIONS: “Two consecutive years” means at least 1200 hours per year for two
consecutive year.
[9/30/96; 16.5.28.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.7, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.28.8 REQUIREMENT TO BE CERTIFIED: Local anesthesia may only be performed by dental
hygienists who have been certified by the committee to perform the expanded function. The administration of local
anesthesia requires the indirect supervision of a dentist. Local anesthesia may be administered by a dental hygienist
under general supervision under the following conditions; the dental hygienist shall:
A. be currently certified to administer local anesthesia in New Mexico and have a New Mexico
license in good standing;
B. have administered local anesthesia under the indirect supervision of a dentist for at least two
consecutive years;
C. administered at least 20 cases of local anesthesia under the indirect supervision of the same dentist
during that two year period;
D. provide a signed affidavit from the supervising dentist attesting to the length of employment,
supervision, and observation of the 20 certifying cases, and attest that the dental hygienist is qualified to administer
local anesthesia and to handle possible emergencies or side effects in a dental facility.
[3/14/73, 5/31/95; 16.5.28.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.8, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.28.9 CERTIFICATION BY EXAMINATION: Applicants for certification in local anesthesia by
exam must possess the following qualifications and submit the required fees and documentation, along with a
completed application.
A. Qualifications:
(1) a current active license in good standing to practice dental hygiene in New Mexico;
(2) successful completion of an approved educational program in local anesthesia of at least 24
didactic hours and 10 hours of clinical training given in an accredited dental hygiene program; and
(3) successfully pass a written and clinical local anesthesia examination administered by WREB; the
results of the WREB exam are valid in New Mexico for a period not to exceed five years.
B. Documentation:
111
(1) copy of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(2) transcript from an accredited dental hygiene program documenting successful completion of an
approved educational program in local anesthesia; and
(3) certificate or score card from WREB indicating successful completion and date of local anesthesia
exam.
[3/14/73, 4/10/81, 5/31/95, 12/15/97; 16.5.28.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.9, 04/17/06; A, 04/16/08; A, 07/17/08;
A, 09/18/10; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.28.10 CERTIFICATION BY CREDENTIALS: Applicants for certification in local anesthesia by
credentials must possess the following qualifications and submit the required fees and documentation, along with a
completed application.
A. Qualifications:
(1) a current active license in good standing to practice dental hygiene in New Mexico;
(2) successful completion of educational coursework in local anesthesia; and
(3) administration of local anesthesia in the practice of dental hygiene for at least three of the past
five years.
B. Documentation:
(1) copy of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(2) proof of successful completion of educational coursework in local anesthesia;
(3) proof of certification by examination to practice local anesthesia in another state;
(4) a letter of verification from each jurisdiction where the applicant holds a certificate for
administering local anesthesia, sent directly from the board in each jurisdiction, describing any disciplinary action
taken against the applicant; and
(5) proof of administration of local anesthesia while engaged in the practice of dental hygiene in at
least three of the past five consecutive years; proof may be by notarized letters from employers, supervisors of
dental clinics of the uniformed services of the United States, or faculty administrators of schools of dental hygiene
or dentistry.
[3/16/94, 5/31/95, 12/15/97; 16.5.28.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.10, 04/17/06; A, 04/16/08; A, 07/17/08; A,
09/18/10; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.28.11 CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed local anesthesia application,
including all required documentation and fees, a committee member or designee of the committee will review the
application and determine eligibility for certification.
[3/16/94, 5/31/95, 12/15/97; 16.5.28.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.28.11, 04/17/06]
16.5.28.12 LIMITATIONS OF LOCAL ANESTHESIA ADMINISTRATION: Administration of local
anesthetic under general supervision may occur when:
A. certification has been received as defined in 16.5.28.11 NMAC and meets the following
requirements:
(1) the supervising or consulting dentist has written or verbally ordered local anesthetic for the
specific patient; and
(2) verbal orders shall be converted to written record or electronic record in the patient’s dental
record; and
B. emergency medical services are available by:
(1) local 911 service with a response time of less than 10 minutes; or
(2) by arrangement with a local physician(s), oral surgeon, or other medical or dental professional
holding an ACLS certification; this arrangement to provide emergency services shall be in writing and on file in the
board office with the dental hygienists license; and
C. indirect supervision is required for continuing education and clinical examinations.
[16.5.28.12 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.28 NMAC:
112
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 3/12/81.
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 1/12/82.
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 3/30/82.
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 2/5/88.
BOD Rule 9, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 2/9/89.
That applicable portion of BOD Rule 9, Practice of Dental Hygiene replaced by BODHC Rule DH 8-95, Dental
Hygienists, Local Anesthesia Certification, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 8-95, Dental Hygienists, Local Anesthesia Certification (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered,
reformatted, amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.28, Dental Hygienists, Local Anesthesia Certification, effective
9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.28, Dental Hygienists, Local Anesthesia Certification (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.28 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Local Anesthesia Certification, effective 04/17/06.
113
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 29 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, PRACTICE
16.5.29.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.29.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.29.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 29 of Chapter 5 apply to all active license holders and all dental
hygienists working in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.29.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 29 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Sections 61-5A-3 and 61-5A-4 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.29.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.29.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.29.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.29.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish allowable practice settings, scope of practice and limitations on
dental hygiene practice in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.29.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Cavitation” means a break in the continuous, solid surface of the enamel of a tooth, created either
by genetic formation or demineralization.
B. “Dental hygiene-focused assessment” means the documentation of existing oral and relevant
systemic conditions and the identification of potential oral disease to develop, communicate, implement and
evaluate a plan of oral hygiene care and treatment.
C. “Topical therapeutic agents” means agents applied to the teeth or gingiva that have a therapeutic
effect locally with limited or no systemic effect.
[9/30/96; 16.5.29.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.7, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.29.8 SCOPE OF PRACTICE: A dental hygienist may perform dental hygiene services as defined in
Section 61-5A-4 (B) and (C) of the act with the supervision defined. In addition, a licensed hygienist may:
A. prescribe, administer or dispense therapeutic agents as per the formulary as defined in Subsection
C of 16.5.29.11 NMAC;
B. function as an expanded function dental auxiliary after passing the certifying exam and completing
the apprenticeship accepted by the board;
C. function as a community dental health coordinator after completing a program certified by the
board;
D. except in cases where a tooth exhibits cavitation of the enamel surface, assessing without a
dentist's evaluation whether the application of pit and fissure sealants is indicated;
E. except in cases where a tooth exhibits cavitation of the enamel surface, applying pit and fissure
sealants without mechanical alteration of the tooth;
F. administration of local anesthesia as defined in 16.5.28 NMAC; and
G. such other closely related services as permitted by the rules of the committee and the board.
[10/21/70, 5/31/95; 16.5.29.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.8, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.29.9 LIMITATIONS ON PRACTICE: Dental hygienists shall not perform, or attempt to perform,
the following services or procedures:
A. removal of, or addition to, the hard or soft tissues of the oral cavity, other than diseased crevicular
tissue;
B. placement or insertion of any permanent filling material;
114
C. diagnosis and dental treatment planning;
D. the final fitting, adaptation, seating and cementation of any fixed or removable dental appliance or
restoration, including but not limited to inlays, crowns, bands, space maintainers, habit devices or splints;
E. final impressions for restorations or prosthetic appliances;
F. irrigation and medication of canal, cone try-in, reaming, filing, or filling of root canals;
G. other services defined as the practice of dentistry in Section 61-5A-4 (A) of the act and not
specifically listed in Section 61-5A-4 (B) and (C) NMSA 1978, unless exempted by regulation; and
H. apply pit and fissure sealants without a dentist evaluation in cases where the tooth does exhibit
cavitation of the enamel surface.
[3/14/73, 4/10/81, 3/11/89, 5/31/95; 16.5.29.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.9, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.29.10 PRACTICE SETTINGS: New Mexico licensed dental hygienists may practice in the following
settings; with supervision as defined in 16.5.1 NMAC:
A. the office of a New Mexico licensed dentist;
B. a clinic or clinics operated or approved by an executive agency of the state of New Mexico;
C. a hospital with written authorization;
D. a state licensed nursing home or long term care facility with written authorization;
E. a school regulated by the New Mexico department of education; or
F. a medical office for the application of topical preventative therapeutics.
[5/31/95, 12/15/97; 16.5.29.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.29.10, 04/17/06; A, 04/16/08; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.29.11 DENTAL HYGIENISTS PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY: A dental hygienist may prescribe,
administer and dispense a fluoride supplement, topically applied fluoride, and topically applied antimicrobials from
the following formulary under the following stipulations.
A. A New Mexico licensed dentist shall supervise, at least by general supervision the prescribing,
administration or dispensing by the hygienist. In a collaborative hygiene practice the formulary used by the dental
hygienist and situations for each therapeutic agent must be set forth in the collaborative practice agreement. Dental
hygienists shall keep as part of the patient record a clear documentation of the therapeutic agent prescribed,
administered or dispensed, the date and reason.
B. Under no circumstances shall a dental hygienist be allowed to prescribe, dispense or administer:
(1) drugs whose primary effect is systemic; and
(2) dangerous drugs or controlled substances as defined in the pharmacy act (NMSA 1978, Section
61-11-1 et deq.) controlled substances act (NMSA 1978, Sections 31-30-1 et seq.) or Drug Device and Cosmetic Act
(NMSA 1978, Sections 26-1-1 et seq.).
C. Dental hygienists may prescribe from the following list:
(1) fluoride supplements (all using sodium fluoride);
(a) tablets 0.5 mg, 1.1 mg, 2.2 mg;
(b) lozenges 2.21 mg;
(c) drops 1.1 mg/mL;
(2) topical anti-caries treatments (all using sodium fluoride unless otherwise stated);
(a) toothpastes 1.1% or less (or stannous fluoride 0.4%);
(b) topical gels 1.1% or less (or stannous fluoride 0.4%);
(c) oral rinses 0.05%, 0.2%, 0.44%, 0.5%;
(d) oral rinse concentrate (used in periodontal disease) 0.63% stannous fluoride;
(e) fluoride varnish 5 %;
(f) prophy pastes (containing approximately 1.23% sodium fluoride and used for cleaning and
polishing procedures as part of professional dental prophylaxis treatment);
(3) topical anti-infectives:
(a) chlorhexidine gluconate ;
(i) rinses 0.12%;
(ii) periodontal chips (for insertion into the periodontal pocket);
(b) tetracycline impregnated fibers (inserted subgingivally into the periodontal sulcus);
(c) doxycycline hyclate periodontal gel (inserted subgingivally into the periodontal sulcus); and
(d) minocycline hydrochloride periodontal paste (inserted subgingivally into the periodontal
sulcus).
[16.5.29.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
115
HISTORY OF 16.5.29 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 3/12/81.
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 1/12/82.
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 3/30/82.
Article XI, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 2/5/88.
BOD Rule 9, Practice of Dental Hygiene, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DH 9-95, Dental Hygiene, Practice, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 9-95, Dental Hygiene, Practice (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16 NMAC 5.29, Dental Hygienists, Practice, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.29, Dental Hygienists, Practice (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended and replaced by
16.5.29 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Practice, effective 04/17/06.
116
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 30 DENTAL HYGIENISTS, DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS, LICENSE REVOCATION
OR SUSPENSION FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
16.5.30.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.30.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.30 NMAC apply to all active license holders and applicants for
licensure. These provisions may also be of interest to anyone who may wish to file a complaint against a licensed
dental hygienist.
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.30 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978, Section 61-5A-21 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.5, 12-14-00; A, 07-19-10]
16.5.30.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures for filing complaints against licensees, the
disciplinary actions available to the board, the authority to issue investigative subpoenas and to further define
actions by a licensee which are considered incompetent or unprofessional practice.
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.6, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Addiction” means a neurobehavioral syndrome with genetic and environmental influences that
result in psychological dependence on the use of substances for their psychic effects. It is characterized by
behaviors that include one or more of the following: impaired control over drug use; compulsive use; continued use
despite harm; and craving. Physical dependence and tolerance are normal physiological consequences of extended
opioid therapy for pain and should not by themselves be considered addiction.
B. “Chronic pain” means a pain state which is persistent and in which the cause of the pain cannot be
removed or otherwise treated.
C. “Drug abuser” means a person who takes a drug or drugs for other than legitimate medical
purposes.
D. “Pain” means an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with inflammation or
with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such inflammation or and damage.
C. “Patient abandonment” means withdrawing a patient from treatment without giving reasonable
notice or providing a competent replacement provider.
E. “Physical dependence” means a state of adaptation that is manifested by a drug-specific
withdrawal syndrome that can be produced by abrupt cassation, rapid dos reduction, decreasing blood level of the
drug, administration of an antagonist, or a combination of these.
F. “Tolerance” means a state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in
a diminution of one or more of the drug’s effects over time.
[9-30-96; 16.5.30.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.7, 12-14-00; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.30.8 COMPLAINTS: Disciplinary proceedings may be instituted by sworn complaint of any person,
including members of the board and committee. Any hearing held pursuant to the complaint shall conform with the
provisions of the Uniform Licensing Act, the Dental Health Care Act and the Impaired Dentists and Dental
Hygienists Act.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95; 16.5.30.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.8, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.9 ACTIONS:
117
A. The committee may assess fines, deny, revoke, suspend, stipulate, or otherwise limit a license if it
is determined the licensee is guilty of violating any of the provisions outlined in the act, the Uniform Licensing Act,
the Impaired Dentists and Hygienists Act, or these rules.
B. The committee may reprimand, censure, or require licensees to fulfill additional continuing
education hours within limited time constraints for violations of the act or rules.
C. The committee shall take into consideration the dual role of dental hygienists as professionals and
employees when taking disciplinary action against a licensee. In the event the complaint is ruled to be based
primarily in the role of employee, the committee may share the findings with the board so appropriate action may be
considered for the employer/dentist.
[3-14-73, 5-31-95, 9-30-96; 16.5.30.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.30.9, 12-14-00]
16.5.30.10 GUIDELINES: The committee shall define the following as guidelines for disciplinary action.
A. “Gross incompetence” or “gross negligence” means, but shall not be limited to, a significant
departure from the prevailing standard of care in patient treatment.
B. “Unprofessional conduct” means, but is not limited to because of enumeration:
(1) performing, or holding oneself out as able to perform, professional services beyond the scope of
one’s license and field or fields of competence as established by education, experience, training, or any combination
thereof; this includes, but is not limited to, the use of any instrument or device in a manner that is not in accordance
with the customary standards and practices of the dental hygiene profession;
(2) failure to advise the patient in simple understandable terms of the treatment rendered, the
expectations for success, and the responsibility the patient must assume;
(3) failure to inform dentist or patient of periodontal assessment;
(4) failure to provide patient education of oral health care regimens which assist in maintaining good
oral health throughout life;
(5) sexual misconduct;
(6) failure to use appropriate infection control techniques and sterilization procedures;
(7) breach of ethical standards, an inquiry into which the committee will begin by reference to the
code of ethics of the American dental hygienists’ association;
(8) fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in any renewal or reinstatement application;
(9) violation of any order of the committee, and ratified by the board, including any probation order;
(10) injudicious administration of any drug or medicine;
(11) failure to report to the committee or board any adverse action taken by any licensing board, peer
review body, malpractice insurance carrier or any other entity as defined by the board or committee, the surrender of
a license to practice in another state, surrender of membership on any medical staff or in any dental hygiene or
professional association or society, in lieu of, and while under disciplinary investigation by any authority;
(12) deliberate and willful failure to reveal, at the request of the committee, the incompetent,
dishonest, or corrupt practices of a dentist or dental hygienist licensed or applying for licensure by the committee or
board; and
(13) cheating on an examination for licensure;
(14) failure of a dental hygienist to comply with the following advertising guidelines:
(a) shall not advertise in a false, fraudulent, or misleading manner, and
(b) shall include in the advertisement the name of the hygienist, the name of the employer
dentist(s), the practice address(es) and telephone number(s);
(15) failure of a collaborative practice dental hygienists to refer a patient for dental care; or
(16) failure of a collaborative practice dental hygienist to comply with the terms of a signed
collaborative practice agreement;
(17) failure of a collaborative practice dental hygienist to professionally and effectively communicate
with a patients dentist of record, or consulting dentist, in a professional manner in regard to a shared patient's care
under 16.5.17 NMAC of these rules;
(18) assisting a health professional, or be assisted by a health professional that is not licensed to
practice by a New Mexico board, agency or commission;
(19) conviction of either a misdemeanor or a felony punishable by incarceration;
(20) aiding and abetting a dental auxiliary who is not properly certified;
(21) patient abandonment;
118
(22) habitually addicted as defined in 61.5A-21 4 & 6 and 61.5B-3.(C) and (D) habitual or excessive
use or abuse of drugs, as defined in the Controlled Substances Act [30-31-1 NMSA 1978] or habitual or excessive
use or abuse of alcohol;
(23) failure of the licensee to furnish the committee; its investigators or representatives with
information requested by the committee, and ratified by the board; and
(24) failure to appear before the board when requested by the committee, and ratified by the board, in
any disciplinary proceeding.
[3-14-73, 4-10-81, 10-16-92, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 1-1-99, 2-14-00; 16.5.30.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.30.10
12-14-00; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.30.11 INVESTIGATIVE SUBPOENAS: The complaint committee of the committee is authorized to
issue action investigative subpoenas and to employ experts with regard to pending investigations.
[5-31-95; 16.5.30.11 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.30.11, 12-14-00; A, 04-16-08; A, 07-17-08]
16.5.30.12 REVOCATION OF COLLABORATIVE LICENSE FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: A
collaborative practice licensee whose license is revoked for disciplinary actions shall:
A. provide proof of written notification of practice closure to all patients currently under active
treatment;
B. notification to patients should include where and how dental treatment records may be obtained
and contact information for dentists available; and
C. provide to the board the location where all active dental treatment records will be maintained for a
minimum of six years; active treatment records are records of patients treated in the two years previous to the date of
closure; the notification to the board shall include the name, address, and telephone number of the person who is
serving as the custodian of the records.
[16.5.30.12 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
16.5.30.13 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED LICENSE FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: A
licensee whose license has been revoked for disciplinary actions may request reinstatement of the license after the
terms of the settlement agreement have been met. Upon approval from the committee, and ratified by the board, and
receipt of the request for reinstatement, board staff shall send an application for reinstatement of license.
A. Along with the completed application, the request for reinstatement shall include the reinstatement
fee, the triennial renewal fee, impairment fee, and proof of the following continuing education courses:
(1) 20 hours of approved continuing education courses related to the clinical practice of dental
hygiene, per year of revocation; at least 20 of these hours shall be in the 12 months previous to the request;
(2) proof of current basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course;
(3) proof of infection control course within the past 12 months; and
(4) 45 hours of continuing education required for the last triennial renewal cycle of active licensure;
these hours may include continuing education identified at the time of revocation as well as any continuing
education taken during the revoked period.
B. Applicant shall authorize the American association of dental examiners clearinghouse to send
verification of status directly to the board office.
C. The board will obtain electronic verification of applicant status from the national practitioners’
data bank.
D. Verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dental hygiene, or other health care profession. Verification shall be sent directly to the board office from the other
state(s) board, shall include a raised seal, and shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number,
and other information contained on the form.
E. The board at the next regularly scheduled meeting shall review the request for reinstatement,
including a statement of the applicant's activities during the period of revocation and information on any existing
impairment. If the board finds the application in order and is satisfied the applicant has fulfilled all required
continuing education, the license may be reinstated and the previous license number reassigned. The reinstated
license will expire as defined in 16.5.11 NMAC.
F. A dental hygienist with a license in revocation status may not practice dental hygiene in New
Mexico until proof of active licensure is received from the board office.
119
G. If reinstatement of a revoked license is not requested within three years after settlement agreement
has been met, application for a new license shall be made by examination or credentials in order to practice dental
hygiene in New Mexico.
[16.5.30.13 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
16.5.30.14 REINSTATEMENT OF SUSPENDED LICENSE FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: For
licenses suspended for greater than six months; a licensee whose license has been suspended for disciplinary actions
in addition to meeting the terms of the settlement agreement shall also meet the following conditions before
reinstatement of licensure:
A. verification of licensure in all states where the applicant holds or has held a license to practice
dental hygiene, or other health care profession; verification shall be sent directly to the board office from the other
state(s) board, shall include a raised seal, and shall attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, license number,
and other information contained on the form;
B. the board at the next regularly scheduled meeting shall review the request for reinstatement,
including a statement of the applicant's activities during the period of suspension and information on any existing
impairment; the reinstated license will expire as defined in 16.5.11 NMAC; and
C. a dental hygienist with a license in suspended status may not practice dental hygiene in New
Mexico until proof of active licensure is approved by the board and issued by the board office.
[16.5.30.14 NMAC - N, 01-09-12]
History of 16.5.30 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 03-11-81;
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 01-12-82;
Article XIII, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 03-30-82;
BOD Rule 11, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DH 10-95, Dental Hygienists, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material:
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry (filed 2-12-73) repealed by Article XIV,
filed 3/12/1981.
Other History:
BODHC Rule DH 10-95, Dental Hygienists, Disciplinary Proceedings (filed 05-05-95) was renumbered,
reformatted and amended into the first version of NMAC as 16 NMAC 5.30, Dental Hygienists, Disciplinary
Proceedings, effective 9-30-96.
16 NMAC 5.30, Dental Hygienists, Disciplinary Proceedings (filed 09-17-96) was renumbered, reformatted and
amended to 16.5.30 NMAC, Dental Hygienists, Disciplinary Proceedings, effective 12-14-00.
120
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 32 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, FEES
16.5.32.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.32.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 32 of Chapter 5 apply to all applicants for certification; to active,
expired and suspended certificate holders; and to anyone who requests a list of certified dental assistants or other
public records.
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.32.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 32 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-20 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.32.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.32.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.32.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish fees to generate revenue to support the cost of program
administration.
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.32.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.32.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.32.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.32.8 FEES:
A. all fees are non-refundable;
B. application fee: $50;
C. examination fee not to exceed $100 per exam;
D. triennial renewal fee: $50;
E. late penalty fee: $25.00;
F. duplicate certificate fee: $10.00;
G. list of current certificate holders: $300; an annual list of current certificate holders is available to
the professional association upon request at no cost;
H. labels of current certificate holders: $300;
I. reinstatement fee: $15.00;
J. DXTR rental fee, per day: $15.00;
K. copies cost $0.25 per page.
[9/7/84, 3/7/88, 4/12/92, 5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.32.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.32.8, 04/17/06; A, 07-16-07; A, 07-
17-08; A, 06-10-09]
HISTORY OF 16.5.32 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 3/12/81.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 1/12/82.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 8/8/84.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 2/5/88.
BOD Rule 10, Dental Assistants, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DA 1-95, Dental Assistant, Practice and Certification, filed 5/5/95.
BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of Certificates, filed 5/5/95.
121
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
That applicable portion of BODHC Rule DA 1-95, Dental Assistant, Practice and Certification, filed 5/5/95 and that
applicable portion of BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of Certificates (filed 5/5/95) were
renumbered, reformatted, amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.32, Dental Assistants, Fees, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.32, Dental Assistants, Fees (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended and replaced by 16.5.32
NMAC, Dental Assistants, Fees, effective 04/17/06.
122
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 33 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATION
16.5.33.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9-30-96; 16.5.33.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.33.1, 12-14-00]
16.5.33.2 SCOPE: The provisions of 16.5.33 NMAC apply to all applicants for certification as a dental
assistant in New Mexico. 16.5.33 NMAC also applies to dental assistants previously certified in New Mexico who
have allowed their certificate to expire.
[9-30-96; 16.5.33.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.2, 12-14-00]
16.5.33.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 16.5.33 NMAC is promulgated pursuant to the Dental Health
Care Act, NMSA 1978 Section 61-5A-5 and Section 61-5A-6 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.33.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.3, 12-14-00]
16.5.33.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[9-30-96; 16.5.33.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.4, 12-14-00]
16.5.33.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a Section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.33.5 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.5, 12-14-00; A, 12-30-02]
16.5.33.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for certification for dental assistants to perform
expanded functions. These rules address applicants being certified via the following tracks:
A. Independent preparation for the requirements;
B. Attendance in a dental assisting program;
C. Attendance in an accredited dental hygiene school; and
D. New residents of New Mexico with current certificates in expanded functions in their previous
state (credentials).
[9-30-96; 16.5.33.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.6, 12-14-00; A, 12-30-02]
16.5.33.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “DANB” means the dental assisting national board.
B. “Direct supervision” means the process under which an act is performed when a dentist licensed
pursuant to the Dental Health Care Act:
(1) is physically present throughout the performance of the act;
(2) orders, controls and accepts full professional responsibility for the act performed;
(3) evaluates and approves the procedure performed before the patient departs the care setting; and
(4) is capable of responding immediately if any emergency should arise.
C. “General supervision” means the authorization by a dentist of the procedures to be used by a
dental hygienist, dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary, dental student, or community dental health
coordinator and the execution of the procedures in accordance with a dentist’s diagnosis and treatment plan at a time
the dentist is not physically present and in facilities as designated by the rules of the board.
D. “Indirect supervision” means that a dentist, or in certain settings a dental hygienist or dental
assistant certified in expanded functions, is present in the treatment facility while authorized treatments are being
performed by a dental hygienist, dental assistant or dental student as defined in 61-5A-3.
E. “Limited certificate” means a radiographic certificate that limits the holder to take only extra oral
dental films.
F. “Rubber cup coronal polishing” means the use of a rubber cup or a bristle brush to remove soft
debris and stain from above the gingival margin.
G. “Supervision” means the dentist shall adequately monitor the performance of all personnel,
licensed or unlicensed, that he or she supervises. The dentist is ultimately responsible for quality patient care and
may be held accountable for all services provided by administrative and clinical individuals that the dentist
supervises.
H. “Training program” means a course of study resulting in applicant eligibility for expanded
function certification.
123
[10-21-70...5-31-95, 9-30-96, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.7, 12-14-00; A, 3-29-02; A, 12-30-
02; A, 07-19-10; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.8 REQUIREMENTS:
A. A licensee shall not allow dental assistants to perform oral radiography under any level of
supervision that are not certified or in authorized training by the New Mexico board of dental health care
B. A licensee shall not allow dental assistants to perform coronal polishing, topical fluoride
application, or application of pit and fissure sealants under general supervision without certification by the board;
C. Dental assistants who perform oral radiography under any level of supervision are required to be
certified by the board. Dental assistants who perform coronal polishing, application of topical fluoride or,
application of pit and fissure sealants both intra and extra oral radiography under general supervision are required to
be certified by the board except those enrolled in a recognized dental assisting program and complying with the
following:
(1) have completed the didactic portion of the radiography curriculum;
(2) are exposing radiographs with supervision of a licensee or an assistant certified in radiography;
and
(3) if exposing x-rays on a human must have a written prescription from a dentist.
D. Expanded function certification offered by the board is distinct from certification offered by
DANB. DANB certification gives the individual the right to use the initials C.D.A after their name, but does not
qualify the individual to perform expanded functions without being certified by the board.
[9-7-84...9-30-96; 16.5.33.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.8, 12-14-00; A, 3-29-02; A, 9-30-02; A, 12-30-02; A, 03-
06-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.9 EDUCATION AND EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR DENTAL
RADIOGRAPHY:
A. Education requirements:
(1) study by independent preparation or in a training course on radiation health and safety within the
past 36 months; and
(2) have assisted with or observed five cases of full mouth intra oral radiographic series or five extra
oral radiographs if applying for a limited certificate.
B. Examination requirements:
(1) Pass the board or DANB written examination on radiation health and safety.
(2) After passing the board or DANB written exam must apply to the board for a training permit
which allows the dental assistant to perfect radiography technique. The permit is valid for six months after passing
the written exam.
(3) Pass the technique test demonstrating proficiency in the exposure of a full-mouth intra oral
radiographic series or panoramic film as established by the board within six months of passing the written exam.
(4) If an applicant chooses to provide only a panoramic film the certificate holder is limited to taking
only extra oral films.
(5) The technique test will be taken on a phantom or human patient. The applicant shall expose a full
mouth intra oral radiographic series of radiographs or a panoramic film, develop, mount, and label the films. The
exam must be done independently and submitted to the board office with an affidavit signed by the dentist, dental
hygienist, or dental assistant certified in radiography attesting to the independent exam. The radiographs must be of
diagnostic quality and will be graded by at least two board or committee members and serve as the technique test
required for certification.
(6) Pass the take home jurisprudence examination.
(7) When extenuating circumstances exist as defined in 16.5.1.7 NMAC, and the dental assistant
cannot submit to the board exposed radiographs, the dental assistant my request an extension of time. The request
must be put in writing and submitted to the board office prior to the deadline.
C. Exemptions:
(1) A dental hygiene student enrolled in an accredited school of dental hygiene who having passed a
curriculum in dental radiography, may be granted a certificate to expose radiographs without an examination.
(2) A dental assistant certified to perform dental radiography in another state with requirements not
less stringent than those in New Mexico may be certified based on credentials.
[9-7-84, 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 1-1-98, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.33.9, 12-14-00; 16.3.33.9
NMAC - A, 2-28-02; A, 12-30-02; A, 03-06-05; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12; A, 06-14-12]
124
16.5.33.10 EDUCATION AND EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR RUBBER CUP CORONAL
POLISHING AND APPLICATION OF TOPICAL FLUORIDE CERTIFICATION:
A. Education requirements: Study by independent preparation or in a training course on rubber cup
coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride and have assisted with or observed five cases of rubber cup
coronal polishing on children and adults and five applications of topical fluoride.
B. Examination requirements:
(1) Pass a board or DANB written examination on rubber cup coronal polishing and application of
topical fluoride;
(2) Perform the technique while being personally observed by a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental
assistant certified in rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride on five adults and children and
five applications of topical fluoride on children; and
(3) Pass the take home jurisprudence examination.
C. Exemptions:
(1) A dental hygiene student enrolled in an accredited school of dental hygiene having passed a
curriculum for rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride may be granted a certificate without
meeting the other requirements of this section.
(2) A dental assistant who is certified to perform rubber cup coronal polishing and application of
topical fluoride in another state with requirements not less stringent than those in New Mexico may be certified
based on credentials.
(3) A dental assistant who holds a current CDA certification issued by DANB may be issued a
certificate for rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride without meeting the other
requirements of this section.
[8-11-89...9-30-96, 1-1-98, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.10, 12-14-00; A, 3-29-02; A, 12-30-
02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.11 EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR
APPLICATION OF PIT AND FISSURE SEALANTS CERTIFICATION:
A. Experience requirements: The applicant must have 2080 hours of clinical chair side dental
assisting within the two years prior to applying for certification.
B. Education requirements:
(1) Study by independent preparation or a training course on pit and fissure sealant application; and
(2) Assisted with and observed application of 12 pit and fissure sealants.
C. Examination requirements:
(1) Pass a board or DANB examination on the application of pit and fissure sealants.
(2) Following successful completion of the examination, apply pit and fissure sealants while being
personally observed by a licensed dentist or dental hygienist on five patients.
(3) Pass the take home jurisprudence examination.
D. Exemptions:
(1) A dental hygiene student enrolled in an accredited school of dental hygiene having passed a
curriculum for pit and fissure sealants and rubber cup coronal polishing, may be granted a certificate without
meeting the other requirements of this section.
(2) A dental assistant who is certified to perform application of pit and fissure sealants in another
state with requirements not less stringent than those in New Mexico may be certified based on credentials.
[5-31-95, 9-30-95, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.11, 12-14-00; A, 3-29-02; 16.5.33.11 NMAC -
Rn, 16.5.33.12 NMAC & A, 12-30-02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.12 REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: Each applicant for an expanded function dental assistant
certificate must submit to the board or its agent the required fees and following documentation.
A. Completed application with a passport quality photo taken within six months affixed to the
application and the completed jurisprudence take home exam. Applications are valid for one year from the date of
receipt.
B. Dental radiography:
(1) proof of passing the board or DANB written examination on radiation health and safety;
(2) an affidavit from a supervising dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant certified in
radiography verifying the applicant has:
125
(a) assisted with and observed five cases of full-mouth intra oral radiographic series or five
panoramic films if applying for a limited certification; and
(b) that upon reaching competency, the applicant independently exposed the radiographs
submitted for technique examination;
(3) the completed full mouth intra oral radiographic series or a panoramic film as required for the
technique exam described in 16.5.33.9 NMAC.
C. Rubber cup coronal polishing and application of topical fluoride:
(1) proof of passing the board or DANB written examination for rubber cup coronal polishing and
application of topical fluoride;
(2) an affidavit from a supervising dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant certified in rubber cup
coronal polishing and topical fluoride application that the applicant has:
(a) assisted with and observed five cases of rubber cup coronal polishing on adults and children
and five applications of topical fluoride on children; and
(b) while being personally observed by a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant certified
in rubber cup coronal polishing, application of topical fluoride provided rubber cup coronal polishing on five adults
and five children; and, provide applications of topical fluoride on five children.
D. Pit and fissure sealants:
(1) Proof of passing the board approved examination on application of pit and fissure sealants.
(2) An affidavit from a supervising dentist or dental hygienist verifying that the applicant has:
(a) assisted with and observed placement of 12 pit and fissure sealants; and
(b) while being personally observed by a dentist or dental hygienist, the applicant successfully
place pit and fissure sealants on six patients.
(3) Proof of 2080 hours of chair side dental assisting experience within two years immediately prior
to application for certification.
(4) The completed jurisprudence exam.
[9-30-96, 1-1-98, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.12 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.12, 12-14-00; 16.5.33.12 NMAC - Rn,
16.5.33.13 NMAC & A, 12-30-02; A, 07-16-07; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.13 CERTIFICATION BY CREDENTIALS: Applicants for certification by credentials shall
provide to the board or its agent:
A. verification of a current active certificate from another state, or
B. an official letter from the director of an accredited dental hygiene program indicating the applicant
has completed coursework in the requested expanded function, or
C. proof of current, valid, certification as a CDA issued by DANB; and
D. all certifications, letters and validations must be received directly by the board office from the
state, institution, or DANB.
[8-11-89... 5-31-95, 9-30-96, 1-1-98, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.13 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.33.13, 12-14-00;
16.5.33.13 NMAC - Rn, 16.5.33.14 NMAC & A, 12-30-02; A, 07-17-08; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.14 RE-EXAMINATION PROCEDURE:
A. An applicant who does not obtain a passing score on the required written exam must re-apply and
pay the required fees in order to retake the examination.
B. Applicants for certification in radiography will be allowed to submit radiographs for the technique
exam three times. With each failure the supervising dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant certified in dental
radiography will be notified of their responsibility for training the applicant.
C. After a third failure, the applicant and supervising dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant
certified in radiography will be required to submit to the board a plan for remediation, including steps that will be
taken to assure clinical competency.
[1-1-98, A, 8-16-99; 16.5.33.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.14, 12-14-00; A, 3-29-02; 16.5.33.14 NMAC - Rn,
16.5.33.15 NMAC & A, 12-30-02; A, 01-09-12]
16.5.33.15 CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all
required documentation and fees the Secretary-Treasurer or delegate of the board will review the application and
determine eligibility for certification. The certificate must be displayed so that it is visible to the public.
[9-30-96, 2-14-00; 16.5.33.15 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.33.15, 12-14-00; 16.5.33.15 NMAC - Rn, 16.5.33.16
NMAC & A, 12-30-02]
126
16.5.33.16 [RESERVED]
[5-31-95, 1-1-98; 16.5.33.16 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.33.16, 12-14-00; A, 12-30-02]
HISTORY OF 16.5.33 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public
records - state records center and archives as:
BDE 69-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 08-14-69;
BDE 70-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dental Examiners, filed 09-21-70;
BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of The New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 02-12-
73;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 03-12-81;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 01-12-82;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 08-08-84;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 02-05-88;
BOD Rule 10, Dental Assistants, filed 02-09-89;
BODHC Rule DA 1-95, Dental Assistants, Practice and Certification, filed 05-05-95.
History of Repealed Material:
Article XIV, Repeals BDE 73-1, Rules and Regulations of the New Mexico Board of Dentistry, filed 2-12-73.
Other History:
16 NMAC 5.33, Dental Assistants, Requirements for Certification, filed 09-17-96;
16 NMAC 5.33, Dental Assistants, Requirements for Certification, filed 09-17-96 - renumbered, reformatted and
amended to 16.5.33 NMAC, Dental Assistants, Requirements for Certification, effective 12-14-00.
127
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 35 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, CERTIFICATE EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL
16.5.35.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.35.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 35 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental assistants with a certificate to
practice expanded functions in New Mexico.
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 35 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.35.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements and procedures for renewal and expiration of
expanded function certificates for dental assistants.
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.35.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.8 CERTIFICATE EXPIRATION: Initial certificates will expire on July 1 following the second
year of certification. No certificate will be issued for longer than 36 months or less than 25 months.
[5/31/95, 12/15/97, 8/16/99, 9/30/96; 16.5.35.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.8, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.9 RENEWAL PERIOD AND EXPIRATION: After the initial license period, certifications for
expanded function expire every three years on June 30. Certificates that are not renewed by July 1 are considered
expired.
[9/7/84…9/30/96, 8/16/99; 16.5.35.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.35.9, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.10 RENEWAL PROCESS: A completed renewal application, accompanied by the required fee as
set forth in 16.5.32.8 NMAC, along with the required proof of completion of 30 hours of continuing education as set
forth in 16.5.1.15 NMAC. The completed renewal application must be post-marked on or before July 1 of the
renewal year.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96, 8/16/99, 2/14/00; 16.5.35.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.35.10, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.11 CERTIFICATE HOLDER RESPONSIBILITY: The board assumes no responsibility for
renewal applications not received for any reason. It is the certificate holders responsibility to make timely request
for the renewal form if one has not been received thirty days prior to certificate expiration.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.35.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.11, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.12 RENEWAL AFTER JUNE 30: Renewal applications post-marked after July 1 and prior to
August 1 of the renewal year must be accompanied by the completed renewal application with the required proof of
completion of 30 hours of continuing education as set forth in 16.5.36.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee
and late fee as set forth in 16.5.32.8 NMAC.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96, 8/16/99; 16.5.35.12 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.35.12, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.13 RENEWAL AFTER AUGUST 1 AND BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1: Renewal applications post-
marked on or after August 1, but before September 1, of the renewal year, must be accompanied by the completed
128
renewal application with the required proof of completion of 30 hours of continuing education as set forth in
16.5.36.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee and late fee as set forth in 16.5.32.8 NMAC.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96, 8/16/99; 16.5.35.13 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.35.13, 04/17/06]
16.5.35.14 RENEWAL APPLICATION UNDELIVERABLE: If the notice of renewal is returned to the
office and the certificate holder has not sent a change of address, the revocation order will be considered
undeliverable and will not be mailed.
[5/31/95; 16.5.35.14 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.35.14, 04/17/06]
HISTORY OF 16.5.35 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 3/12/81.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 1/12/82.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 8/8/84.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 2/5/88.
BOD Rule 10, Dental Assistants, filed 2/9/89.
BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of Certificates, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
That portion of BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of Certificates (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered,
reformatted, amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.35, Dental Assistants, Certificate Expiration and Renewal,
effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.35, Dental Assistants, Certificate Expiration and Renewal (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.35 NMAC, Dental Assistants, Certificate Expiration and Renewal, effective
04/17/06.
129
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 36 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
16.5.36.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.36.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 36 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental assistants with current
expanded function certification who are applying to renew their certificate.
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 36 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-10 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.36.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for the renewal of expanded function certificates for
dental assistants.
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.36.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.36.8 HOURS REQUIRED: 30 hours of continuing education are required during each triennial
renewal cycle. Continuing education received after submission of renewal materials but prior to actual expiration
date may be used for the requirements of the next renewal cycle. Continuing education requirements are pro-rated at
10 hours per year for individuals licensed for less than three years.
[8/11/89, 9/30/96, 12/15/97; 16.5.36.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.8, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.36.9 COURSES REQUIRED: Continuing education coursework must contribute directly to the
practice of dental assisting. The following courses are required for license renewal:
A. three hours of radiographic technique or safety and protection;
B. as further defined in 16.5.1.16 NMAC, a course in infection control techniques and sterilization
procedures per renewal period; and
C. proof of current certification in basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
accepted by the American heart association the American red cross or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course.
[8/11/89, 5/21/93, 5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.36.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.36.9, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07; A,
07/19/10; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.36.10 VERIFICATION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION: The board will select renewal
applications for verification of continuing education. Audit requests will be included with the renewal notice and
those selected individuals will be asked to submit proof of compliance with the continuing education requirements.
Continuing education records may be audited by the board at any time. The records identified in Subsection F of
16.5.1.15 NMAC are considered acceptable forms of documentation. Continuing education records must be
maintained for one year following the renewal cycle in which they are earned.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.36.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.10, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
16.5.36.11 EMERGENCY DEFERRAL: A certificate holder who is unable to fulfill the continuing
education requirements may apply to the board for an emergency deferral of the requirements due to extenuating
130
circumstances as defined in 16.5.1.7 NMAC. Deferrals of up to four months may be granted by a designee of the
board.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.36.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.36.11, 04/17/06; A, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.36 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 3/12/81.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 1/12/82.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 8/8/84.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 2/5/88.
BOD Rule 10, Dental Assistants, filed 2/9/89.
That applicable portion of BOD Rule 10 replaced by BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of
Certificates, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of Certificates (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.36, Dental Assistants, Continuing Education Requirements, effective
9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.36, Dental Assistants, Continuing Education Requirements (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16.5.36 NMAC, Dental Assistants, Continuing Education Requirements, effective
04/17/06.
131
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 37 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, CERTIFICATE REVOCATION FOR NON-RENEWAL
16.5.37.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.37.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 37 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental assistants with expanded
function certification who do not submit an application for certificate renewal within 60 days of the expiration date.
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 13 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.37.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures and policies for revocation of expired expanded
function dental assisting certificates and the reinstatement of certificates revoked for non-renewal.
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.37.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.37.8 REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATE FOR NON-RENEWAL: Unless an application for
certificate renewal is received by the board office, or post-marked, before September 1, the certificate shall be
revoked for non-renewal.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.37.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.8, 04/17/06; A, 07/17/08]
16.5.37.9 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED CERTIFICATE: Within one year of the revocation
notice, the certificate may be reinstated by payment of renewal, late and reinstatement fees, compliance with
continuing education for the previous renewal cycle and for the year of the revocation. Applicants for reinstatement
after one year of revocation must re-apply as a new applicant and meet all requirements for initial certification.
A. Applicants for reinstatement must provide verification of licensure in all states where the applicant
holds or has held a license to practice dental assisting, or other health care profession within the previous year.
Verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s) board, must include a raised seal, and
must attest to the status, issue date, license number, and other information contained on the form.
B. Upon receipt of a completed reinstatement of revoked license application, including all
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board, will review and may approve the
application. The board may formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
[5/31/95, 9/30/96, 1/1/99; 16.5.37.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.37.9, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07]
HISTORY OF 16.5.37 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 3/12/81.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 1/12/82.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 8/8/84.
Article XII, Dental Assistants, filed 2/5/88.
BOD Rule 10, Dental Assistants, filed 2/9/89.
That applicable portion of BOD Rule 10 replaced by BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of
Certificates, filed 5/5/95.
132
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DA 2-95, Dental Assistants, Renewal of Certificates (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.37, Dental Assistants, Certificate Revocation for Non-Renewal, effective
9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.37, Dental Assistants, Certificate Revocation for Non-Renewal (filed 9/17/96) renumbered,
reformatted, amended and replaced by 16.5.37 NMAC, Dental Assistants, Certificate Revocation for Non-Renewal,
effective 04/17/06.
133
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING GENERAL PROVISIONS
PART 39 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, PRACTICE AND SUPERVISION
16.5.39.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
[9-30-96; 16.5.39.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.39.1, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 39 of Chapter 5 apply to all dental assistants with current
expanded function certification.
[9-30-96; 16.5.39.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.39.2, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 39 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, NMSA 1978, 61-5A-5 and 61-5A-6 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9-30-96; 16.5.39.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.39.3, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9-30-96; 16.5.39.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.39.4, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a Section.
[9-30-96; 16.5.39.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.39.5, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish those procedures, which may be provided by dental assistants, the
procedures which require expanded function certification, and the procedures which may not be performed by dental
assistants, regardless of certification or supervision.
[9-30-96; 16.5.39.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.39.6, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
A. Repealed
B. Repealed
C. Repealed
[10-21-70...5-31-95; R, 12-15-97; 16.5.39.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.39.7, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.8 PRACTICE AND REQUIRED SUPERVISION: Dental assistants may provide any basic
supportive dental procedure, not excluded elsewhere in rule or in statute if the procedure is performed under the
indirect supervision of a dentist. The following expanded function procedures may be performed without
certification under indirect supervision as long as the procedure is approved by the dentist or dental hygienist upon
completion:
A. Rubber Cup Coronal Polishing
B. Application of Topical Fluoride
C. Pit and Fissure Sealant Application
[10-21-70...9-30-96; 16.5.39.8 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.39.8, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.9 PROCEDURES REQUIRING CERTIFICATION: The following procedures are allowable
under general supervision if the dental assistant is certified by the Board:
A. Place and expose dental radiographs;
B. Rubber cup coronal polishing;
C. Application of topical fluoride; and
D. Pit and fissure sealants.
[10-21-70...5-31-95; 9-30-96, A, 12-15-97, A, 1-1-99; 16.5.39.9 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.39.9, 9-30-02]
16.5.39.10 NON-ALLOWABLE PROCEDURES: Licensees may not delegate the performance of the
following procedures to auxiliary personnel:
A. Removal of, or addition to, the hard or soft tissue of the oral cavity;
B. Diagnosis and treatment planning;
C. Final impressions for restorations or prosthetic appliances;
D. Fitting and adaptation of prostheses;
134
E. Final fitting, adaptation, seating and cementation of any fixed or removable dental appliance or
restoration, including but not limited to inlays, crowns, space maintainers, habit devices or splints;
F. Irrigation and medication of canals, cone try-in, reaming, filing or filling of root canals; and
G. Other services defined as the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene in Section 61-5A-4,A, B, and
C.
[10-21-70...5-31-95; 9-30-96; 16.5.39.10 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.39.10, 9-30-02]
HISTORY OF 16.5.39 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History:
Material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of public records - state records
center and archives as:
Article XII, Dental Assistants, 3-12-81;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, 1-12-82;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, 8-8-84;
Article XII, Dental Assistants, 2-5-88;
BOD Rule 10, Dental Assistants, 2-9-89;
BODHC Rule DA 1-95, Dental Assistant, Practice and Certification, 5-5-95.
History of Repealed Material: [Reserved]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DA 1-95, Dental Assistant, Practice and Certification, filed 5-5-95 was renumbered, reformatted to
and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.39, Dental Assistants, Practice and Certification, filed 9-17-96.
16 NMAC 5.39, Dental Assistants, Practice and Certification, filed 9/17/96 was renumbered, reformatted and
amended to 16.5.39 NMAC, effective 9-30-02.
135
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 40 DENTAL ASSISTANTS, DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS
16.5.40.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.1 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.40.1, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 40 of Chapter 5 apply to all active certificate holders and
applicants for certification. These provisions may also be of interest to anyone who may wish to file a complaint
against a dental assistant certified by the board.
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.2 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.2, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 40 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Sections 61-5A-6 and 61-5A-21 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.3 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.3, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.4 DURATION: Permanent
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.4 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.4, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: September 30, 1996, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.5 NMAC - Rn & A, 16 NMAC 5.40.5, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures for filing complaints against certificate holders, the
disciplinary actions available to the board, the authority to issue investigative subpoenas and to further define
actions by a certificate holder which are considered incompetent or unprofessional practice.
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.6 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.6, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
[9/30/96; 16.5.40.7 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.7, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.8 COMPLAINTS: Disciplinary proceedings may be instituted by sworn complaint of any person,
including members of the board and committee. Any hearing held pursuant to the complaint shall conform with the
provisions of the Uniform Licensing Act and the Dental Health Care Act.
[5/31/95; 16.5.40.8 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.8, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.9 ACTIONS:
A. The board may issue fines, deny, revoke or suspend, or otherwise limit a certificate if the board
determines the certificate holder is guilty of violating any of the provisions outlined in the Act, the Uniform
Licensing Act, or these rules.
B. The board may reprimand, censure, stipulate and may require certificate holders to fulfill
additional continuing education hours within limited time constraints for violations of the act or the rules.
C. The board shall take into consideration the role of dental assistants as employees when taking
disciplinary action against a certificate holder. In the event the complaint is ruled to be based primarily on the
assistant’s role as employee, the board may consider appropriate action against the employer/dentist.
[5/31/95, 8/15/95; 16.5.40.9 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.9, 04/17/06]
16.5.40.10 GUIDELINES: The board shall define the following as guidelines for disciplinary action:
“unprofessional conduct” means, but is not limited to because of enumeration:
A. performing, or holding oneself out as able to perform, professional services beyond the scope of
ones certification and field or fields of competence as established by education, experience, training, or any
combination thereof; this includes, but is not limited to, the use of any instrument, device or material in a manner
that is not in accordance with the customary standards and practices of dental assisting;
B. sexual misconduct;
C. failure to use appropriate infection control techniques and sterilization procedures;
D. fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in any renewal or reinstatement application;
E. cheating on an examination for expanded function certification;
136
F. performing any procedure which requires certification unless so certified;
G. injudicious administration of any drug or medicine;
H. conviction of either a misdemeanor or a felony punishable by incarceration; and
I. failure to be in compliance with the Parental Responsibility Act NMSA1978, Section 40-5A-3 seq.
[10/16/92, 8/15/95, 9/30/96; 16.5.40.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.10, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07; A, 07/19/10; A,
06/14/12]
16.5.40.11 INVESTIGATIVE SUBPOENAS: The complaint committee of the board is authorized to issue
investigative subpoenas and to employ experts with regard to pending investigations.
[8/15/95; 16.5.40.11 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 5.40.11, 04/17/06; A, 07/16/07; A, 07/17/08]
HISTORY OF 16.5.40 NMAC:
Pre-NMAC History: The material in this part was derived from that previously filed with the commission of
public records - state records center and archives as:
BODHC Rule DA 3-95, Dental Assistants, Disciplinary Proceedings, filed 5/5/95.
History of Repealed Material: [RESERVED]
Other History:
BODHC Rule DA 3-95, Dental Assistants, Disciplinary Proceedings (filed 5/5/95) was renumbered, reformatted,
amended and replaced by 16 NMAC 5.40, Dental Assistants, Disciplinary Proceedings, effective 9/30/96.
16 NMAC 5.40, Dental Assistants, Disciplinary Proceedings (filed 9/17/96) renumbered, reformatted, amended and
replaced by 16.5.40 NMAC, Dental Assistants, Disciplinary Proceedings, effective 04/17/06.
137
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 41 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILIARY, FEES
16.5.41.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.41.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.41.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 41 of Chapter 5 apply to all applicants for certification; to active,
expired and suspended certificate holders; and to anyone who requests a list of certified expanded function dental
auxiliary or other public records.
[16.5.41.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.41.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 41 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-20 NMSA 1978.
[16.5.41.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.41.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.41.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.41.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.41.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.41.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish fees to generate revenue to support the cost of program
administration.
[16.5.41.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.41.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.41.8 FEES:
A. all fees are non-refundable;
B. application fee: $100;
C. board examination fee not to exceed $100 per exam;
D. triennial renewal fee: $100;
E. late penalty fee: $25.00;
F. duplicate certificate fee: $10.00;
G. list of current certificate holders: $300; an annual list of current certificate holders is available to
the professional association upon request at no cost;
H. labels of current certificate holders: $300;
I. reinstatement fee: $15.00;
J. copies cost $0.25 per page.
[16.5.41.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.41 NMAC: [RESERVED]
138
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 42 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILARY, REQUIREMENTS FOR
CERTIFICATION
16.5.42.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.42.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 42 of Chapter 5 apply to all applicants for certification; to active,
expired and suspended certificate holders; and to anyone who requests a list of certified expanded function dental
auxiliary or other public records.
[16.5.42.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 42 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-5, 61-5A-6 and 61-5A-6.1 NMSA 1978.
[16.5.42.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.42.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.42.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for certification for expanded function dental
auxiliary to perform expanded functions. These rules address applicants being certified via the following tracks.
A. Completed an expanded function dental auxiliary program accredited by the joint commission on
dental accreditation.
B. Independent preparation for dental assistants that have five years experience and prepare
independently for the requirements.
C. Candidates who possess a current certificate in good standing in expanded function dental
auxiliary from another state or jurisdiction (credentials).
[16.5.42.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Apprenticeship” means a period of time in which an EFDA candidate is closely supervised by a
supervising dentist and demonstrates competency on patients in EFDA duties as defined under 16.5.46.9 NMAC.
The supervising dentist assumes all responsbility and liability for the training and actions of an EFDA candidate and
must attest to their competency.
B. “Close personal supervision” means a New Mexico licensed dentist directly observes, instructs
and certifies in writing the training and expertise of a EFDA candidate to the board.
C. “Continuous employment” means 1,000 hours per year for any five consecutive years.
D. “Direct supervision” means the process under which an act is performed when a dentist licensed
pursuant to the Dental Health Care Act:
(1) is physically present throughout the performance of the act;
(2) orders, controls and accepts full professional responsibility for the act performed; and
(3) evaluates and approves the procedure performed before the patient departs the care setting.
E. “Expanded function dental auxiliary” EFDA means a dental assistant, dental hygienist or other
dental auxiliary that has received education specific to the duties delineated by the board for an EFDA, and has met
the educational and certifying exam standards set by the board for an EFDA, and works under the direct supervision
of a NM licensed dentist to perform the functions allowed under this section.
F. “Placing and shaping restorations” means the act of placing dental filling material(s) directly into
a cavity preparation previously prepared by a dentist, and shaping, finishing and polishing the restoration so that it
has proper occlusal form, contacts, anatomy and margins prior to final approval by the dentist.
G. “Supervising dentist” means a New Mexico licensed dentist who has no current action or inquires
pending by the board and who provides supervision, instruction and recommendation for an EFDA candidate to the
board.
139
[16.5.42.7 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.8 REQUIREMENTS: EFDA who performs the duties defined under 16.5.46.9 NMAC are
required to be certified by the board.
[16.5.42.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.42.9 EDUCATION AND EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPANDED FUNCTION
DENTAL AUXILARY:
A. satisfactory completion of an accepted expanded function dental auxiliary course at an institution
accredited by the board or joint commission on dental accreditation where in the offering program is also accredited
by the commission; or
B. for dental auxiliaries that have five years experience and “independent preparation” for the
requirements:
(1) applicant must have a minimum of five years of continuous employment as a dental assistant or
dental hygienist with a minimum of 1,000 hours per year;
(2) achieved certification in all expanded functions as defined in 16.5.33 NMAC;
(3) taken a course of study in dental anatomy, dental materials, placing and shaping direct
restorations, fitting and shaping of stainless steel crowns, and occlusion function and passed a post-test approved by
the board verifying readiness for taking the certification examination;
(4) recommended for an EFDA certification by the supervising dentist as defined in Subsection G of
16.5.42.7 NMAC;
C. pass the WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, SRTA or other examination accepted by the board for
certification of EFDA;
D. completed the jurisprudence examination with a score of at least 75 percent;
E. exemptions; an expanded function dental auxiliary who is certified to perform EFDA duties in
another state or jurisdiction with requirements not less stringent than those in New Mexico may be certified based
on credentials;
F. after passing a board accepted examination or being certified by credentials, EFDA candidates
must complete an apprenticeship under the close personal supervision of a supervising dentist
(1) the board will send to the EFDA candidate upon receipt of the completed application the
following:
(a) permit to start apprenticeship to be displayed during apprenticeship; and
(b) affadivit form to be signed by supervising dentist at start and completion of apprenticeship;
(2) the affadavit shall state that the supervising dentist assures that the EFDA candidate is competent
in the procedures allowed by an EFDA and that the supervising dentist assumes full responsibility and liability for
the training and actions of the EFDA;
(3) once the permit is issued by the board office the EFDA candidate has 180 days to complete the
apprenticeship; and
(4) upon completion of the apprenticeship the candidate must return the EFDA permit and the signed
affadivit to the board; once the permit and signed affadavit have been received and verified by the board a certificate
for EFDA may be issued.
[16.5.42.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.42.10 REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: Each applicant for an expanded function dental auxiliary
certification shall submit to the board or its agent the required fees and following documentation. Applications are
valid for one year from the date of receipt by the board; after one year, the applicant shall submit to the board a new
application.
A. Each application for licensure who completed an EFDA program must submit the following
documentation:
(1) completed application with a passport quality photo taken within six months affixed to the
application;
(2) official transcripts or certification verifying successful completion of an EFDA program
accredited by the commission on dental accreditation;
(3) copy of WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, SRTA or other examination accepted by the board for
certification as EDFA; the results of the exam are valid in New Mexico for a period not to exceed five years:
140
(a) the applicant shall apply directly to WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, or SRTA for
examination;
(b) results of the clinical examination shall be sent directly to the board office; and
(4) affadavit letter from supervising dentists.
B. An applicant who has not graduated from an accredited expanded function dental auxiliary
program can apply for certification if they meet all requirements in Subsection B, D and F of 16.5.42.9 NMAC and
must submit the following:
(1) completed application with a passport quality photo taken within six months affixed to the
application;
(2) shall provide proof of five years of continuous employment as a dental assistant or dental
hygienist with a minimum of 1,000 hours per year;
(3) shall have achieved certification in all expanded function as defined in 16.5.33 NMAC;
(4) shall provide proof of successful completion of courses in dental anatomy, dental materials,
placing and shaping direct restorations, fitting and shaping of stainless steel crowns, and occlusion function;
(5) shall provide a letter from supervising dentist recommending applicant for EFDA certification;
must be on dentist letterhead;
(6) copy of WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, SRTA or other examination accepted by the board; and
(7) affidavit letter from the supervising dentist of competency.
C. Certification by credentials. Applicants can apply for certification by credentials if they meet all
requirements as defined in Subsections A, C, D and F of 16.5.42.9 NMAC and must submit the following:
(1) completed application with a passport quality photo taken within six months affixed to the
application;
(2) verification of a current active certification in good standing from another state; and
(3) copy of WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX, SRTA or other clincial examination accepted by the
board; the results of the examination are valid in New Mexico for a period not to exceed five years:
(a) the applicant shall apply directly to WREB, CRDTS, NERB/ADEX or SRTA for
examination, and
(b) the results of the clinical examination must be sent directly to the board office; and
(4) affidavit letter from the supervising dentist of competency.
[16.5.42.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.42.11 CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, including all
required documentation, signed affadavit and fees, the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board will review the
application and determine eligibility for certification.
A. Initial certificates are issued for a period not to exceed three years.
B. The certificate must be displayed so that it is visible to the public.
[16.5.42.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.42 NMAC: [RESERVED]
141
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 43 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILIARY, CERTIFICATION EXPIRATION AND
RENEWAL
16.5.43.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.43.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 43 of Chapter 5 apply to all expanded function dental auxiliary
with a certificate to practice expanded functions in New Mexico.
[16.5.43.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 43 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.43.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.43.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.43.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements and procedures for renewal and expiration of
certificates for expanded function dental auxiliary.
[16.5.43.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.43.8 CERTIFICATE EXPIRATION: Initial certificates will expire on July 1 following the second
year of certification. No certificate will be issued for longer than 36 months or less than 25 months.
[16.5.43.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.9 RENEWAL PERIOD AND EXPIRATION: After the initial certification period, certifications
for expanded function expire every three years on June 30. Certificates that are not renewed by July 1 are considered
expired.
[16.5.43.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.10 RENEWAL PROCESS: A completed renewal application, accompanied by the required fee as
set forth in 16.5.41.8 NMAC, along with the required proof of completion of 36 hours of continuing education as set
forth in 16.5.1.15 NMAC. The completed renewal application must be post-marked on or before July 1 of the
renewal year.
[16.5.43.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.11 CERTIFICATE HOLDER RESPONSIBILITY: The board assumes no responsibility for
renewal applications not received for any reason. It is the certificate holder’s responsibility to make timely request
for the renewal form if one has not been received 30 days prior to certificate expiration.
[16.5.43.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.12 RENEWAL AFTER JUNE 30: Renewal applications post-marked after July 1 and prior to
August 1 of the renewal year must be accompanied by the completed renewal application with the required proof of
completion of 36 hours of continuing education as set forth in 16.5.44.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee
and late fee as set forth in 16.5.41.8 NMAC.
[16.5.43.12 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
142
16.5.43.13 RENEWAL AFTER AUGUST 1 AND BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1: Renewal applications post-
marked on or after August 1, but before September 1, of the renewal year, must be accompanied by the completed
renewal application with the required proof of completion of 36 hours of continuing education as set forth in
16.5.44.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee and late fee as set forth in 16.5.41.8 NMAC.
[16.5.43.13 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.43.14 RENEWAL APPLICATION UNDELIVERABLE: If the notice of renewal is returned to the
office and the certificate holder has not sent a change of address, the revocation order will be considered
undeliverable and will not be mailed.
[16.5.43.14 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.43 NMAC: [RESERVED]
143
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 44 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILIARY, CONTINUING EDUCATION
REQUIREMENTS
16.5.44.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.44.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 44 of Chapter 5 apply to all expanded function dental auxiliary
with current expanded function dental auxiliary certification who are applying to renew their certificate.
[16.5.44.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 44 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.44.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.44.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.44.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for the renewal of expanded function dental
auxiliary certificates.
[16.5.44.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.44.8 HOURS REQUIRED: 36 hours of continuing education, a maximum of 12 hours can be on-line,
webinars or self-study, are required during each triennial renewal cycle as defined in 16.5.1 NMAC. Continuing
education received after submission of renewal materials but prior to actual expiration date may be used for the
requirements of the next renewal cycle. Continuing education requirements are pro-rated at 12 hours per year for
individuals certified for less than three years.
[16.5.44.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.9 COURSES REQUIRED: Continuing education coursework must contribute directly to the
practice of expanded function dental auxiliary. The following courses are required for certification renewal:
A. as further defined in 16.5.1.16 NMAC, a course in infection control techniques and sterilization
procedures per renewal period;
B. proof of current certification in basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course; and
C. twelve hours in restorative dentistry.
[16.5.44.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.10 VERIFICATION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION: The board will select renewal
applications for verification of continuing education. Audit requests will be included with the renewal notice and
those selected individuals will be asked to submit proof of compliance with the continuing education requirements.
Continuing education records may be audited by the board at any time. The records identified Subsection F of
16.5.1.15 NMAC are considered acceptable forms of documentation. Continuing education records must be
maintained for one year following the renewal cycle in which they are earned.
[16.5.44.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.44.11 EMERGENCY DEFERRAL: A certificate holder who is unable to fulfill the continuing
education requirements may apply to the board for an emergency deferral of the requirements due to extenuating
144
circumstances as defined in 16.5.1.7 NMAC. Deferrals of up to four months may be granted by a designee of the
board.
[16.5.44.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.44 NMAC: [RESERVED]
145
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 45 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILILARY, CERTIFICATE REVOCATION FOR
NON-RENEWAL
16.5.45.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.45.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 45 of Chapter 5 apply to all expanded function dental auxiliary
with expanded function certification who do not submit an application for certificate renewal within 60 days of the
expiration date.
[16.5.45.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 45 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.45.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.4 DURATION: Permanent
[16.5.45.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 09, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.45.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures and policies for revocation of expired expanded
function dental auxiliary certificates and the reinstatement of certificates revoked for non-renewal.
[16.5.45.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.45.8 REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATE FOR NON-RENEWAL: Unless an application for
certificate renewal is received by the board office, or post-marked, before September 1, the certificate shall be
revoked for non-renewal.
[16.5.45.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.45.9 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED CERTIFICATE: Within one year of the revocation
notice, the certificate may be reinstated by payment of renewal, late and reinstatement fees, compliance with
continuing education for the previous renewal cycle and for the year of the revocation. Applicants for reinstatement
after one year of revocation must re-apply as a new applicant and meet all requirements for initial certification.
A. Applicants for reinstatement must provide verification of certification in all states where the
applicant holds or has held a certificate to practice expanded function dental auxiliary, or other health care
profession within the previous year. Verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, certificate number, and
other information contained on the form.
B. Upon receipt of a completed reinstatement of revoked certification application, including all
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board, will review and may approve the
application. The board may formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
[16.5.45.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.45 NMAC: [RESERVED]
146
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 46 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILIARY, PRACTICE AND SUPERVISION
16.5.46.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
[16.5.46.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 46 of Chapter 5 apply to all expanded function dental auxiliary
with current certification.
[16.5.46.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 46 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, 61-5A-5, 61-5A-6 and 61-5A-6.1 NMSA 1978, (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.46.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.46.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.46.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish those procedures which shall be provided by an expanded function
dental auxiliary, the procedures which require expanded function dental auxiliary certification, and the procedures
which shall not be performed by an expanded function dental auxiliary, regardless of certification or supervision.
[16.5.46.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.7 DEFINITIONS: “Direct supervision” means the process under which an act is performed when a
dentist licensed pursuant to the Dental Health Care Act:
A. is physically present throughout the performance of the act;
B. orders, controls and accepts full professional responsibility for the act performed; and
C. evaluates and approves the procedure performed before the patient departs the care setting.
[16.5.46.7 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.8 PRACTICE AND REQUIRED SUPERVISION: EFDA duties set forth in 16.5.46.9 NMAC
are allowed under the direct supervision of a NM licensed dentist, provided the dentist has:
A. prepared the cavity or tooth for the restorative procedure;
B. instructed the EFDA on the particular elements of this individual case;
C. fully examined and evaluated the procedure carried out by the EFDA, and corrected or replaced
any deficiency found in the EFDA work, before allowing the patient to leave the treatment facility;
D. the dentist is ultimately responsible for the quality of care and the quality of the final restorative
procedure carried out by the EFDA as defined in 16.5.16 NMAC and Subsection N of Section 61-5A-3 of the Dental
Health Care Act; and
E. not more than two EFDA, performing expanded functions, per licensed dentist present in office.
[16.5.46.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.46.9 ALLOWABLE DUTIES UNDER DIRECT SUPERVISON: The following EFDA procedures
are allowable under direct supervision as set forth in 16.5.46.8 NMAC.
A. Placing and shaping of direct restorative materials into cavity preparations completed by a dentist;
EFDA may use instrumentation as necessary and proper for this purpose.
B. Taking of impressions for permanent fixed or removable prosthetics involving single teeth. These
include single crowns or single tooth replacement prosthetics. EFDA shall NOT take final impressions for multiple
units of single crowns, bridges, cast framework partial dentures or full dentures.
C. Cement permanent or provisional restorations with temporary or provisional cement, provided the
permanent cementation will be completed or monitored by the dentist within six months.
D. Place pit and fissure sealants under supervision as certification or licensure allows.
147
E. Place temporary or sedative restorations in open carious lesions after hand excavation of gross
decay and debris. If pain is perceived by the patient dentist shall evaluate lesion before completion by EFDA. The
EFDA shall NOT use any automated method to clean out the lesion or prepare the tooth, including but not limited to
high speed, slow speed, air abrasion, ultrasonic, laser etc.
F. The EFDA may place temporary or sedative restorative material into unprepared tooth fractures as
a palliative measure. The EFDA shall NOT use any automated method to clean out the fracture or prepare the
tooth, including but not limited to high speed, slow speed, air abrasion, ultrasonic, laser etc.
G. Remove residual orthodontic bracket or band cement or resin from teeth after the brackets or
bands have been removed by the dentist performing the orthodontic treatment, or to prepare the tooth or teeth for re-
cementation of a debonded bracket or band. This removal of cement/resin may include the use of instrumentation,
as necessary and proper for this purpose.
H. Perform preliminary fitting and shaping of stainless steel crowns which shall undergo final
evaluation and cementation by a dentist.
I. In emergency situation recement temporary or permanent crowns or bridges using provisional
cement under the general supervision of a dentist and when instructed to do so by the dentist provided the permanent
cementation will be completed or monitored by the dentist within six months.
[16.5.46.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.46.10 NON-ALLOWABLE PROCEDURES: EFDA shall not perform any other procedure, duty or
function as an EFDA under any level of supervision that is not expressly listed in 16.5.46.9 NMAC.
[16.5.46.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.46 NMAC: [RESERVED]
148
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 47 EXPANDED FUNCTION DENTAL AUXILIARY, DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS
16.5.47.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.47.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 47 of Chapter 5 apply to all active certificate holders and
applicants for certification. These provisions may also be of interest to anyone who may wish to file a complaint
against a expanded function dental auxiliary certified by the board.
[16.5.47.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 47 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Sections 61-5A-6 and 61-5A-21 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.47.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.47.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.47.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures for filing complaints against certificate holders, the
disciplinary actions available to the board, the authority to issue investigative subpoenas and to further define
actions by a certificate holder which are considered incompetent or unprofessional practice.
[16.5.47.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.47.8 COMPLAINTS: Disciplinary proceedings shall be instituted by sworn complaint of any person,
including members of the board and committee. Any hearing held pursuant to the complaint shall conform with the
provisions of the Uniform Licensing Act and the Dental Health Care Act.
[16.5.47.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.9 ACTIONS:
A. The board may issue fines, deny, revoke or suspend, or otherwise limit a certificate if the board
determines the certificate holder is guilty of violating any of the provisions outlined in the act, the Uniform
Licensing Act, or these rules.
B. The board may reprimand, censure, stipulate and may require certificate holders to fulfill
additional continuing education hours within limited time constraints for violations of the act or the rules.
C. The board shall take into consideration the role of expanded function dental auxiliary as
employees when taking disciplinary action against a certificate holder. In the event the complaint is ruled to be
based primarily on the expanded function dental auxiliary’s role as employee, the board may consider appropriate
action against the employer/dentist.
[16.5.47.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.47.10 GUIDELINES: The board shall define the following as guidelines for disciplinary action:
“unprofessional conduct” means, but is not limited to because of enumeration:
A. performing, or holding oneself out as able to perform, professional services beyond the scope of
ones certification and field or fields of competence as established by education, experience, training, or any
combination thereof; this includes, but is not limited to, the use of any instrument, device or material in a manner
that is not in accordance with the customary standards and practices of expanded function dental auxiliary;
B. sexual misconduct;
C. failure to use appropriate infection control techniques and sterilization procedures;
D. fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in any renewal or reinstatement application;
E. cheating on an examination for expanded function dental auxiliary certification;
149
F. performing any procedure which requires certification unless so certified;
G. injudicious administration of any drug or medicine;
H. conviction of either a misdemeanor or a felony punishable by incarceration; and
I. failure to be in compliance with the Parental Responsibility Act NMSA1978, Section 40-5A-3 seq.
[16.5.47.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.47.11 INVESTIGATIVE SUBPOENAS: The complaint committee of the board is authorized to issue
investigative subpoenas and to employ experts with regard to pending investigations.
[16.5.47.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.47 NMAC: [RESERVED]
150
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 49 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, FEES
16.5.49.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.49.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.49.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 49 of Chapter 5 apply to all applicants for certification; to active,
expired and suspended certificate holders; and to anyone who requests a list of certified community dental health
coordinators or other public records.
[16.5.49.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.49.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 49 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-20 NMSA 1978.
[16.5.49.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.49.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.49.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.49.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.49.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.49.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish fees to generate revenue to support the cost of program
administration.
[16.5.49.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.49.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.49.8 FEES:
A. all fees are non-refundable;
B. application fee: $100;
C. board examination fee not to exceed $100 per exam;
D. triennial renewal fee: $100;
E. late penalty fee: $25.00;
F. duplicate certificate fee: $10.00;
G. list of current certificate holders: $300; an annual list of current certificate holders is available to
the professional association upon request at no cost;
H. labels of current certificate holders: $300;
I. reinstatement fee: $15.00;
J. copies cost $0.25 per page.
[16.5.49.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.49 NMAC: [RESERVED]
151
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 50 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, REQUIREMENTS FOR
CERTIFICATION
16.5.50.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.50.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 50 of Chapter 5 apply to all applicants for certification; to active,
expired and suspended certificate holders; and to anyone who requests a list of community dental health
coordinators or other public records.
[16.5.50.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 50 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Sections 61-5A-5 and 61-5A-6 NMSA 1978.
[16.5.50.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.4 DURATION: Permanent
[16.5.50.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.50.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for certification as a community dental health
coordinator for applicants from various educational backgrounds and professional tracks.
[16.5.50.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Community based field experience” means a hands-on internship/apprenticeship where the
CDHC gets to use their skills under supervision of a licensed New Mexico dentist or hygienist.
B. “Community dental health coordinator” CDHC means a dental assistant, dental hygienist or other
trained personnel certified by the board as a community dental health coordinator to provide educational, preventive
and limited palliative care and assessment services working collaboratively under the general supervision of a
licensed New Mexico dentist.
C. “Community health promotion” means courses that teach social work skills such as, building
social networks, health advocacy for individuals and communities, mapping out social and health support networks,
cultural competency, communication skills, interpersonal skills, interviewing skills, behavioral assessment and
management, developing community programs, teaching and training skills, legal and ethical issues.
D. “Continuous employment” means 1,000 hours per year for five consecutive years.
E. “Dental skills” means courses in basic dental knowledge, emergency vs. routine care needs,
recognition of dental conditions, gross anatomy of head and neck and oral structures, gathering and recording
information, clinical record keeping, caries, periodontal disease, oral and external cancer evaluation, palliative care,
and financing dental care.
F. “General supervision” means the authorization by a dentist of the procedures to be used by a
dental hygienist, dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary, dental student, or community dental health
coordinator and the execution of the procedures in accordance with a dentist’s diagnosis and treatment plan at a time
the dentist is not physically present and in facilities as designated by the rules of the board.
G. “Limited palliative procedures” means procedures ordered by the dentist to help relieve pain or to
improve an emergency situation that a patient is experiencing. These procedures must be within the scope of the
community dental health coordinator.
H. “Teledentistry” means a dentist’s use of health information technology in real time to provide
limited diagnostic and treatment planning services in cooperation with another dentist, a dental hygienist, a
community dental health coordinator or a student enrolled in a program of study to become a dental assistant, dental
hygienist or dentist.
[16.5.50.7 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
152
16.5.50.8 REQUIREMENTS: Community dental health coordinator who performs the duties defined
under 16.5.54 NMAC are required to be certified by the board.
[16.5.50.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.9 EDUCATION AND EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMUNITY DENTAL
HEALTH COORDINATOR: Each applicant for a certification for community dental health coordinator must
possess the following qualifications, through one of the following pathways:
A. Applicants for CDHC shall meet the following requirements for certification:
(1) shall have high school diploma (or equivalent) or college level degree;
(2) shall have board certification in radiography, rubber cup coronal polishing and topical fluoride
and pit and fissure expanded functions;
(3) completed the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent; and
(4) successful completion of CDHC program approved by the board.
B. Pathways/educational tracks: applicants may have earned other college level degree(s) and
certifications in their respective field(s) of study, such as, but not limited to, registered dental hygienists, certified
dental assistant, dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary and other non-dental professionals. Credits
earned in these educational fields may be applied for credit towards the CDHC education program as determined by
the sponsoring institution.
C. Approved programs: board approved CDHC programs shall include the following guidelines for
course study in order to prepare the applicant to a level consistent with the definitions as listed in 16.5.50.7 NMAC
and duties as outlined in 16.5.54.9 NMAC:
(1) education in community health promotion;
(2) education in dental skills; and
(3) education in community-based field experience.
D. Credit shall be given by the approved program of coursework, certifications, or degrees already
earned. Proof of these credits is the responsibility of the institution of the approved program.
[16.5.50.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.10 REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: Each applicant for community dental health coordinator
certification must submit to the board or its agent the required fees and following documentation. Applications are
valid for one year from the date of receipt:
A. proof of official transcripts with required courses for certification; official transcripts verifying
successfully passing all required coursework as defined in 61-5A-6 of the act;
B. passed the jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 75 percent;
C. submit to the board the names of the dentists(s) working in a supervisory capacity to the CDHC
coordinator.
[16.5.50.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.50.11 CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE: Upon receipt of a completed application, inclding all
required documentation and fees the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board will review the application and
determine eligibility for certification.
A. Initial certificates are issued for a period not to exceed three years.
B. The certificate must be displayed so that it is visible to the public.
[16.5.50.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.50 NMAC: [RESERVED]
153
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 51 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, CERTIFICATION EXPIRATION
AND RENEWAL
16.5.51.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.51.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 51 of Chapter 5 apply to all community dental health
coordinators with a certificate to practice as a community dental health coordinator in New Mexico.
[16.5.51.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 51 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.51.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.51.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.51.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements and procedures for renewal and expiration of
certificates for community dental health coordinator.
[16.5.51.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.51.8 CERTIFICATE EXPIRATION: Initial certificates will expire on July 1 following the second
year of certification. No certificate will be issued for longer than 36 months or less than 25 months.
[16.5.51.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.9 RENEWAL PERIOD AND EXPIRATION: After the initial certification period, certifications
for community dental health coordinator expire every three years on June 30. Certificates that are not renewed by
July 1 are considered expired.
[16.5.51.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.10 RENEWAL PROCESS: A completed renewal application, accompanied by the required fee as
set forth in 16.5.49.8 NMAC, along with the required proof of completion of 36 hours of continuing education as set
forth in 16.5.1.15 NMAC. The completed renewal application must be post-marked on or before July 1 of the
renewal year.
[16.5.51.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.11 CERTIFICATE HOLDER RESPONSIBILITY: The board assumes no responsibility for
renewal applications not received for any reason. It is the certificate holders responsibility to make timely request
for the renewal form if one has not been received 30 days prior to certificate expiration.
[16.5.51.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.12 RENEWAL AFTER JUNE 30: Renewal applications post-marked after July 1 and prior to
August 1 of the renewal year must be accompanied by the completed renewal application with the required proof of
completion of 36 hours of continuing education as set forth in 16.5.52.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee
and late fee as set forth in 16.5.49.8 NMAC.
[16.5.51.12 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.13 RENEWAL AFTER AUGUST 1 AND BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1: Renewal applications post-
marked on or after August 1, but before September 1, of the renewal year, must be accompanied by the completed
154
renewal application with the required proof of completion of 36 hours of continuing education as set forth in
16.5.52.8 NMAC, along with the triennial renewal fee and late fee as set forth in 16.5.49.8 NMAC.
[16.5.51.13 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.51.14 RENEWAL APPLICATION UNDELIVERABLE: If the notice of renewal is returned to the
office and the certificate holder has not sent a change of address, the revocation order will be considered
undeliverable and will not be mailed.
[16.5.51.14 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.51 NMAC: [RESERVED]
155
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 52 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, CONTINUING EDUCATION
REQUIREMENTS
16.5.52.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.52.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 52 of Chapter 5 apply to all community dental health
coordinators with current expanded function certification who are applying to renew their certificate.
[16.5.52.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 52 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.52.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.52.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.52.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the requirements for the renewal of community dental health
coordinator certificates.
[16.5.52.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.52.8 HOURS REQUIRED: 36 hours of continuing education, a maximum of 12 hours can be on-line,
webinars or self-study, are required during each triennial renewal cycle as defined in 16.5.1 NMAC. Continuing
education received after submission of renewal materials but prior to actual expiration date may be used for the
requirements of the next renewal cycle. Continuing education requirements are pro-rated at 12 hours per year for
individuals certified for less than three years.
[16.5.52.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.52.9 COURSES REQUIRED: Continuing education coursework must contribute directly to the
practice of community dental health coordinator. The following courses are required for certificate renewal:
A. as further defined in 16.5.1.16 NMAC, a course in infection control techniques and sterilization
procedures per renewal period;
B. proof of current certification in basic life support (BLS) or cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
accepted by the American heart association, the American red cross, or the American safety and health institute
(ASHI); cannot be a self-study course; and
C. 12 hours in preventive or emergency dentistry.
[16.5.52.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.52.10 VERIFICATION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION: The board will select renewal
applications for verification of continuing education. Audit requests will be included with the renewal notice and
those selected individuals will be asked to submit proof of compliance with the continuing education requirements.
Continuing education records may be audited by the board at any time. The records identified Subsection F of
16.5.1.15 NMAC are considered acceptable forms of documentation. Continuing education records must be
maintained for one year following the renewal cycle in which they are earned.
[16.5.52.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.52.11 EMERGENCY DEFERRAL: A certificate holder who is unable to fulfill the continuing
education requirements may apply to the board for an emergency deferral of the requirements due to extenuating
156
circumstances as defined in 16.5.1.7 NMAC. Deferrals of up to four months may be granted by a designee of the
board.
[16.5.52.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.52 NMAC: [RESERVED]
157
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 53 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, CERTIFICATE REVOCATION
FOR NON-RENEWAL
16.5.53.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.53.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 53 of Chapter 5 apply to all community dental health
coordinators with certification who do not submit an application for certificate renewal within 60 days of the
expiration date.
[16.5.53.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 53 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Section 61-5A-16 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.53.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.53.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.53.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures and policies for revocation of expired community
dental health coordinator certificates and the reinstatement of certificates revoked for non-renewal.
[16.5.53.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.53.8 REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATE FOR NON-RENEWAL: Unless an application for
certificate renewal is received by the board office, or post-marked, before September 1, the certificate shall be
revoked for non-renewal.
[16.5.53.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.53.9 REINSTATEMENT OF REVOKED CERTIFICATE: Within one year of the revocation
notice, the certificate may be reinstated by payment of renewal, late and reinstatement fees, compliance with
continuing education for the previous renewal cycle and for the year of the revocation. Applicants for reinstatement
after one year of revocation must re-apply as a new applicant and meet all requirements for initial certification.
A. Applicants for reinstatement must provide verification of certification in all states where the
applicant holds or has held a certificate to practice as a community dental health coordinator, or other health care
profession within the previous year. Verification must be sent directly to the board office from the other state(s)
board, must include a raised seal, and must attest to the status, issue date, expiration date, certification number, and
other information contained on the form.
B. Upon receipt of a completed reinstatement of revoked certification application, including all
documentation and fees, the secretary-treasurer or delegate of the board, will review and may approve the
application. The board may formally accept the approval of the application at the next scheduled meeting.
[16.5.53.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.53 NMAC: [RESERVED]
158
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 54 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, PRACTICE AND SUPERVISION
16.5.54.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.54.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 54 of Chapter 5 apply to all community dental health
coordinators with current certification.
[16.5.54.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 54 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, 61-5A-5 and 61-5A-6 NMSA 1978, (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.54.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.54.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.54.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish those procedures which may be provided by a community dental
health coordinator, the procedures which require community dental health coordinator certification, and the
procedures which may not be performed by an community dental health coordinator, regardless of certification or
supervision.
[16.5.54.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. “Cavitation” means a break in the continuous, solid surface of the enamel of a tooth, created either
by genetic formation or demineralization.
B. “Direct supervision” means the process under which an act is performed when a dentist licensed
pursuant to the Dental Health Care Act:
(1) is physically present throughout the performance of the act;
(2) orders, controls and accepts full professional responsibility for the act performed; and
(3) evaluates and approves the procedure performed before the patient departs the care setting.
C. “General supervision” means the authorization by a dentist of the procedures to be used by a
dental hygienist, dental assistant, expanded function dental auxiliary, community dental health coordinator or dental
student and the execution of the procedures in accordance with a dentist’s diagnosis and treatment plan at a time the
dentist is not physically present and in facilities as designated by the rules of the board.
D. “Limited palliative procedure(s)” means procedures ordered by the dentist to help relieve pain or
to improve an emergency situation that a patient is experiencing. These procedures must be within the scope of
practice of the CDHC.
E. “Supervising dentist” means a dentist that maintains the records of a patient, is responsible for
their care, has reviewed their current medical history and for purposes of authorization, has examined that patient
within the previous 11 months or will examine that patient within 30 days of giving authorization.
F. “Teledentistry” means a dentist’s use of health information technology in real time to provide
limited diagnostic treatment planning services in cooperation with another dentist, a dental hygienist, a community
health coordinator or a student enrolled in a program of study to become a dental assistant, dental hygienist or
dentist.
G. “Tooth fracture” means the fracture or loss of tooth structure due to trauma or chewing. The
defect has little or no caries present.
H. “Unexcavated carious lesion” means an open carious lesion in a tooth that is cleaned of loose
debris by rinsing or use of cotton pellets. Caries attached to the tooth will not be removed.
[16.5.54.7 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
159
16.5.54.8 PRACTICE AND REQUIRED SUPERVISION: Community dental health coordinator duties
set forth in 16.5.54.9 NMAC are allowed under the general supervision of a New Mexico licensed dentist. The
community dental health coordinator may provide educational preventive and limited palliative care and assessment
services while working collaboratively under the general supervision of a dentist.
[16.5.54.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.54.9 ALLOWABLE DUTIES UNDER GENERAL SUPERVISON: The following community
dental health coordinator procedures are allowable under general supervision as set forth in 16.5.54.8 NMAC:
A. take a complete health and dental history;
B. expose and develop necessary radiographs as ordered by the supervising dentist or as established
in protocol by a supervising dentist;
C. observe and transmit patient data through teledentistry means to a dentist;
D. place temporary and sedative restorative materials in unexcavated carious lesions and unprepared
tooth fractures;
E. transmit prescription or medication orders on the direct order of a dentist;
F. CDHC may provide the following limited palliative procedures:
(1) application of hot/cold compresses to the face or mouth;
(2) instruct patient in the uses of various rinses containing salt, sodium bicarbonate, chlorhexidine,
etc. as ordered by the dentist;
(3) instruct patients as to the proper use and dosage of over the counter or prescribed medications
recommended by the supervising dentists;
(4) place avulsed teeth in the proper preservation solution for transport to a dentist;
(5) apply pressure compresses to intraoral wounds;
(6) performance of any other palliative procedures as directly instructed by the supervising dentist,
and within the scope of practice of the CDHC;
(7) instruct the patient on brushing, flossing, gingival massage or cleaning for gingival inflammation
or infection;
G. patient and community education on an individual basis or with groups within the community to
improve dental health and dental health awareness;
H. act as an advocate for patients and the community in accessing dental care; and
I. rubber cup coronal polishing, which is not to be represented as a prophylaxis, topical application
of fluorides; application of pit and fissure sealants when previously authorized by the supervising dentist or dental
hygienist and cavitation of the enamel is not present.
[16.5.54.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.54.10 NON-ALLOWABLE PROCEDURES: CDHC may not perform any other procedure, duty or
function under any level of supervision that is not expressly listed in 16.5.54.9 NMAC.
[16.5.54.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.54 NMAC: [RESERVED]
160
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 55 COMMUNITY DENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR, DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS
16.5.55.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.55.1 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.2 SCOPE: The provisions of Part 55 of Chapter 5 apply to all active certificate holders and
applicants for certification. These provisions may also be of interest to anyone who may wish to file a complaint
against a community dental health coordinator certified by the board.
[16.5.55.2 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: Part 55 of Chapter 5 is promulgated pursuant to the Dental
Health Care Act, Sections 61-5A-5, 61-5A-6 and 61-5A-21 NMSA 1978 (1996 Repl. Pamp.).
[16.5.55.3 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.55.4 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: January 9, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.55.5 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.6 OBJECTIVE: To establish the procedures for filing complaints against certificate holders, the
disciplinary actions available to the board, the authority to issue investigative subpoenas and to further define
actions by a certificate holder which are considered incompetent or unprofessional practice.
[16.5.55.6 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.7 DEFINITIONS: [RESERVED]
16.5.55.8 COMPLAINTS: Disciplinary proceedings may be instituted by sworn complaint of any person,
including members of the board and committee. Any hearing held pursuant to the complaint shall conform with the
provisions of the Uniform Licensing Act and the Dental Health Care Act.
[16.5.55.8 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.9 ACTIONS:
A. The board may issue fines, deny, revoke or suspend, or otherwise limit a certificate if the board
determines the certificate holder is guilty of violating any of the provisions outlined in the act, the Uniform
Licensing Act, or these rules.
B. The board may reprimand, censure, stipulate and may require certificate holders to fulfill
additional continuing education hours within limited time constraints for violations of the act or the rules.
C. The board shall take into consideration the role of community dental health coordinator as
employees when taking disciplinary action against a certificate holder. In the event the complaint is ruled to be
based primarily on the community dental health coordinator’s role as employee, the board may consider appropriate
action against the employer/dentist.
[16.5.55.9 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
16.5.55.10 GUIDELINES: The board shall define the following as guidelines for disciplinary action:
“unprofessional conduct” means, but is not limited to because of enumeration:
A. performing, or holding oneself out as able to perform, professional services beyond the scope of
ones certification and field or fields of competence as established by education, experience, training, or any
combination thereof; this includes, but is not limited to, the use of any instrument, device or material in a manner
that is not in accordance with the customary standards and practices of community dental health coordinator;
B. sexual misconduct;
C. failure to use appropriate infection control techniques and sterilization procedures;
D. fraud, deceit or misrepresentation in any renewal or reinstatement application;
E. cheating on an examination for community dental health coordinator certification;
161
F. performing any procedure which requires certification unless so certified;
G. injudicious administration of any drug or medicine;
H. conviction of either a misdemeanor or a felony punishable by incarceration; and
I. failure to be in compliance with the Parental Responsibility Act NMSA1978, Section 40-5A-3 seq.
[16.5.55.10 NMAC - N, 01/09/12; A, 06/14/12]
16.5.55.11 INVESTIGATIVE SUBPOENAS: The complaint committee of the board is authorized to issue
investigative subpoenas and to employ experts with regard to pending investigations.
[16.5.55.11 NMAC - N, 01/09/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.55 NMAC: [RESERVED]
162
TITLE 16 OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING
CHAPTER 5 DENTISTRY (DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, ETC.)
PART 56 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY COMPLIANCE
16.5.56.1 ISSUING AGENCY: New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
[16.5.56.1 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.2 SCOPE: This part applies to disciplinary proceedings by an issuing agency pursuant to the
Parental Responsibility Act against a license, certificate, registration or permit required to engage in a profession or
occupation.
[16.5.56.2 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: This part is adopted pursuant to the Parental Responsibility Act,
Sections 40-5A-1 to 40-5A-13 NMSA1978.
[16.5.56.3 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.4 DURATION: Permanent.
[16.5.56.4 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.5 EFFECTIVE DATE: June 14, 2012, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.
[16.5.56.5 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.6 OBJECTIVE: This part is intended to implement the requirements of the Parental Responsibility
Act as they apply to the issuance, renewal, suspension or recovation of any license, certificate, registration or permit
required for dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, expanded fuction dental auxiliaries, community dental
health coordinators and non-dentist owners for dental practices.
[16.5.56.6 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.7 DEFINITIONS:
A. All terms defined in the Parental Responsibility Act shall have the same meanings in this part
unless defined below.
B. As used in this part.
(1) “Board” means the New Mexico board of dental health care or any entity to which it has
delegated authority to pursue violations of the Parental Responsibility Act.
(2) “HSD” means the New Mexico human services department.
(3) “License” means a license, certificate, registrtion or permit issued by the board that a person is
required to have to engage in a profession or occupation in New Mexico.
(4) “Statement of compliance” means a certified statement from HSD stating that an applicant or
licensee is in compliance with a judgment and order for support, and has complied with subpeonas or warrants
relating to paternity or child support proceedings.
(5) “Statement of non-compliance” means a certified statement from HSD stating that an applicant or
licensee is not in compliance with judgment and order for support or has not complied with subpoenas or warrants
relating to paternity or child support proceedings.
[16.5.56.7 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
16.5.56.8 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY ACT; DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY: The authority of
the New Mexico board of dental health care to issue a notice of contemplated action, to refer cases in which a notice
of contemplated action has been issued for administrative prosecution, to hold hearings and issue decision and
orders to any licensee or applicant for licensure whose name appears on the certified list issued by the New Mexico
department of human services, as provided in NMSA 1978, 40-5A-1, et seq., may be delegated to the New Mexico
regulation and licensing department. This section shall not be construed to deprive the board of its authority to issue
a notice of contemplated action for any violation of the Parental Responsibility Act, to refer a case for administrative
prosecution, hold a hearing or issue a decision and order for any violation of the Parental Responsibility Act.
[16.5.56.8 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
163
16.5.56.9 DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS:
A. Disciplinary action: If an applicant or licensee is not in compliance with a judgment and order for
support, or has not complied with subpoenas or warrants, relating to paternity or child support proceedings the board
shall follow:
(1) shall deny an application for licensure;
(2) shall deny the renewal of a license; and
(3) has grounds for suspension or revocation of a license.
B. Certified list: Upon receipt of HSD’s certified list of obligors not in compliance with a judgment
and order for support or who have not complied with subpoenas or warrants relating to paternity or child support
proceedings, the board shall match the certified list agaist the current list of applicants and licensees. Upon the later
receipt of an application for licensure or renewal, the board shall match the applicant agaist the current certified list.
By the end of the month in which the certified list is received, the board shall report to HSD the names of applicants
and licensees who are on the certified list and the action the board has taken in connection with such applicants and
licensees.
C. Initial action: Upon determination that an applicant or licensee appears on the certified list, the
board shall:
(1) commence a formal preceding under Subsection D of 16.5.56.8 NMAC to take the appropriate
action under Subsection A of 16.5.56.8 NMAC; or
(2) for current licensees only, informally notify the licensee that the licensee’s name is on the
certified list, and that the licensee must provide the board with a subsequent statement of compliance by the earlier
of the application for license renewal or a specified date not to exceed six months, if the licensee fails to provide the
statement, the board shall commence formal proceeding under Subsection D of 16.5.56.8 NMAC.
D. Notice of contemplated action: Prior to taking any action specified in Subsection A of 16.5.56.8
NMAC, the board shall serve upon the applicant or licensee a written notice stating that:
(1) the board has grounds to take such action, and that the board shall take such action unless the
licensee or applicant:
(a) mails a letter (certified mail, return receipt requested) within 20 days after service of the
notice requesting a hearing; or
(b) provides the board, within 30 days of the date of the notice, with a statement of compliance;
and
(2) if the applicant or licensee disagrees with the determination of non-compliance, or wishes to come
into compliance, the applicant or licensee should contact the HSD child support enforcement division.
E. Evidence and proof: If any hearing under this part, relevant evidence is limited to the following:
(1) a statement of non-compliance is conclusive evidence that requires the board to take the
appropriate action under Subsection A of 16.5.56.8 NMAC unless:
(2) the applicant or licensee can provide the board with subsequent statement of compliance which
shall preclude the board from taking any action based solely on the prior statement of non-compliance.
F. Order: When an action is taken under this part solely because the applicant or licensee is not in
compliance with a judgement and order for suppor or has not complied with subpoenas or warrants relating to
paternity or child support proceedings the order shall state that the application or license shall be reinstated upon
presentation of a subsequent statement of compliance. The board may also include any other conditions necessary
to comply with board requirements for reapplication or reinstatement of lapsed license.
G. Procedures: Proceedings under this part shall be governed by the Uniform Licensing Act, NMSA
1978, Section 61-1-1 et seq., or any other adjudicatory procedures adopted by the board.
[16.5.56.9 NMAC - N, 06/14/12]
HISTORY OF 16.5.56 NMAC: [RESERVED]
164