§ 17-82-102 - Definitions. - Arkansas Statutes

17-82-102. Definitions.

As used in this chapter:

(1) (A) "Practicing dentistry" means:

(i) The evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment by nonsurgical, surgical, or related procedures of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area, and the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the human body, but not for the purpose of treating diseases, disorders, and conditions unrelated to the oral cavity, maxillofacial area, and the adjacent and associated structures; and

(ii) The sale or offer for sale of those articles or services of dentistry enumerated in 17-82-105(a).

(B) "Practicing dentistry" shall include, but not be limited to, the administration of anesthetics for the purpose of or in connection with the performance of any of the acts, services, or practices enumerated or described in this section.

(C) Nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit a licensed physician from extracting teeth in an emergency when, in his or her considered professional judgment, it is necessary and when it is not practicable or reasonable to secure the services of a licensed dentist; and

(2) (A) "The practice of dental hygiene" means the assessment, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases provided by a licensed dental hygienist under the supervision of a licensed dentist as set out in the regulations of the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners.

(B) The practice of dental hygiene shall include the removal of deposits from supergingival and subgingival surfaces of the teeth and any other services which the board may authorize by regulation and which are not prohibited by any provision of this chapter.