§ 12-220-102 — Legislative declaration

The practice of dentistry, dental
therapy, and dental hygiene in this state is declared to affect the public health,
safety, and welfare and to be subject to regulation and control in the public
interest. It is further declared to be a matter of public interest and concern that the
dental profession merit and receive the confidence of the public and that only
qualified dentists, dental therapists, and dental hygienists be permitted to practice
dentistry, dental therapy, or dental hygiene in this state. It is the purpose of this
article 220 to promote the public health, safety, and welfare by regulating the
practice of dentistry, dental therapy, and dental hygiene and to ensure that no one
practices dentistry, dental therapy, or dental hygiene without qualifying under this
article 220. The provisions of this article 220 relating to licensure by credentials are
not intended to reduce competition or restrain trade with respect to the oral health
needs of the public. All provisions of this article 220 relating to the practice of
dentistry, dental therapy, and dental hygiene shall be liberally construed to carry
out these objects and purposes.

Legislative History

Source: L. 2020: Entire article amended with relocations, (HB 20-1056), ch. 64, p. 219, � 1, effective September 14. L. 2022: Entire section amended, (SB 22-219), ch. 381, p. 2706, � 2, effective January 1, 2023.