Minnesota Dental Jurisprudence Practice Exam

Which of the following parties regulates the practice of dentistry in Minnesota?

1. American Dental Association

2. Board of Dentistry

3. Department of Health

4. State Legislature

The correct answer is: Board of Dentistry

The practice of dentistry in Minnesota is regulated by the Board of Dentistry, which is the primary authority responsible for overseeing dental professionals in the state. This board ensures that dentists and dental hygienists comply with state laws and regulations, maintain professional standards, and protect public health and safety. They handle licensing, continuing education requirements, and take disciplinary actions when necessary against those who violate dental regulations. While the American Dental Association is a professional organization that advocates for dentists and promotes the field of dentistry, it does not have regulatory power in Minnesota. Similarly, the Department of Health focuses more broadly on public health initiatives rather than the specific regulation of dental practice. The State Legislature, while instrumental in creating laws, does not directly regulate the practice itself but rather sets the framework within which entities like the Board of Dentistry operate. Therefore, the Board of Dentistry plays a crucial role as the regulatory body directly involved in the dentistry profession in Minnesota.