The 1884 law established the Board of Dental Examiners with essentially the same functions and duties it has today; i.e. limit the practice of dentistry to those who are competent to engage in it, maintain a registry of certified practitioners, provide reasonable opportunity to qualified persons who wish to practice in Maryland, support an acceptable standard of dental practice, and protect the public interest. In accordance with its provisions, Governor McLane appointed five reputable practicing dentists, resident in Maryland, non-pecuniarily connected with any school of dentistry, for terms of two and four years.

The Board Today

Currently, the Board consists of sixteen members: nine dentists, four dental hygienists, and three consumer members, all appointed by the Governor. Each member serves a four year term and may be reappointed for a second term. The Board meets on the first Wednesday of every month for its Open Session, at which the public is invited to attend. Following the open session the Board conducts an Executive (closed) Session during which the Board members and staff discuss non-public issues, such as proprietary operations and disciplinary actions. The third Wednesday of each month is reserved for the Discipline Review Committee meeting, a closed session full board committee that reviews complaints against those licensed by the Dental Board or making application for licensure in Maryland.

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