License: DENTAL HYGIENISTS

Department of Health Division of Health Related Boards Division of Health Related Boards

665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor

Nashville, TN 37243-0000

(615) 532-5073

DENTAL HYGIENISTS<br> A person who engages in clinical procedures primarily concerned with the performance of preventive dental service not constituting the practice of dentistry, including removing of all hard and soft deposits and stains, polishing surfaces of teeth, performing clinical examinations of teeth and tissue for diagnosis by the dentist, and other procedures as delegated by the dentist under his direct supervision. May not perform dental functions requiring professional judgment or skill. <br><br>REQUIREMENTS: <br>Be at least 18 years of age, of good moral character and reputation, be a U.S. Citizen or have authority to work in the United States, satisfy education and examination requirements. (Limited licenses available for teaching do not require the examinations.) <br><br>EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:<br> Graduation from a school of dental hygiene approved by the Board and accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. <br><br>EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS: <br>The ADEX or Western Regional Examining Board examination is required for any applicant who has recently graduated or who does nothave a license in another state under which he/she had practice for three of the preceding five years. Any applicant who has failed any board approved exam must pass that exam in any case. The National Board examination is required for applicants who have graduated from a dental hygiene college, school or university after 1972. <br><br>RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS: <br>Every two (2) years license expires in birth month according to even or odd birth year.