Senate Bill No. 669 amends the Oklahoma State Dental Act to modernize and clarify regulations related to dentistry, dental hygiene, and dental assistants. Key changes include the removal of references to oral maxillofacial surgery assistants, the introduction of a new oral maxillofacial expanded duty permit for dental assistants, and the expansion of eligibility for dental licenses by credentials. The bill also updates the authority of volunteer licensees regarding anesthesia use, adds dental hygiene students to intern provisions, and establishes new requirements for patient record keeping. Additionally, it modifies the grounds for license denial based on criminal background checks and enhances the structure of the Board of Dentistry by creating standing committees to address various issues affecting dental practice and public safety.

The legislation further introduces a special volunteer license for retired or out-of-state dental professionals, allowing them to provide services during emergencies without application fees or continuing education requirements. It also revises the requirements for dental assistants, including new training and continuing education mandates, and allows collaborative practice agreements between oral surgeons and other licensed medical professionals. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate patient records and outlines disciplinary actions for dental professionals, including penalties for failing to report patient-related incidents. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the regulatory framework governing dental practices in Oklahoma while promoting public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 59-328.3, 59-328.19, 59-328.21, 59-328.23a, 59-328.24, 59-328.29a, 59-328.31b, 59-328.32, 59-328.41, 59-328.44a
Floor (Senate): 59-328.3, 59-328.19, 59-328.21, 59-328.23a, 59-328.24, 59-328.29a, 59-328.31b, 59-328.32, 59-328.41, 59-328.44a