OMS seat added to Arizona dental board

Arizona passed HB 2906, updating the state dental board’s membership requirements to mandate that one of the six licensed dentist seats be held by an actively practicing oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Sponsored by Rep. Ralph Heap, MD (R-AZ-010), an orthopedic surgeon, and championed by the Arizona Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AzSOMS), the new law will help ensure specialized surgical expertise is represented on the board for years to come. The board will continue to include two dental hygienists, two public members and one business entity representative, all appointed by the governor for four-year terms. HB 2906 passed both chambers of the legislature unanimously and with bipartisan support. The new law takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the legislative session. Arizona joins North Dakota and Rhode Island in requiring an OMS to serve on the dental board. Colorado also will require OMS representation on its board beginning in 2031. Congratulations to AzSOMS on its successful advocacy.