After a student expressed an interest in class about dentistry, we explored what organization is in charge of regulating the profession, including determining who gets to practice it:
The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) has a history of regulating dentistry in Texas that dates back to 1889:
1889: The first legislation to regulate dentistry in Texas allowed each judicial district to appoint a board of examiners made up of three practicing dentists.
1897: The district system was replaced by the TSBDE, with six dentists appointed by the governor for two-year terms.
1919: The number of dentists on the board was increased to nine.
1971: The term length for dentists on the board was increased to six years.
1981: Three public members were added to the board, increasing the total number of members to 12.
1991: Two dental hygienists and one additional dentist were added to the board, increasing the total number of members to 15.
The TSBDE is responsible for licensing and registering dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental laboratories, and mobile dental clinics. They also sanction violators of dentistry laws and rules.
The governor appoints all members of the TSBDE, who serve until they resign or are replaced. The Texas Constitution states that appointees with expired terms will continue to serve until they are reappointed or replaced.