ADA.org: Massachusetts Licensure Requirements

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 1 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

Initial

Licensure

Examination

Requirements

Successful completion of patient-based periodontal examination is required for

all exams; minimum score of 75% in each section of the exam:

CDCA - the Board will accept a passing score on the manikin-based operative

section of the CDCA exam as an alternative to a passing score on the

traditional patient-based operative exam.

CITA - if taken on or after January 1, 2014

CRDTS - if taken prior to July 1, 2009

SRTA - if taken between Jan. 1, 2013 and Aug. 9, 2015

CDCA DSE and CITA if taken prior to Jan 1, 2014

CDCA DSE and CRDTS if taken on or after July 1, 2009

CDCA DSE and SRTA if taken prior to Jan. 1, 2013 or after Aug. 9, 2015

CDCA DSE and WREB the Board requires a passing score (a score of at least

3 out of a possible score of 5) on ALL sections of the WREB exam including the

optional periodontics and prosthodontics sections and two restorative

procedures in the operative section, e.g. one Class II and one Class III

restoration OR two Class II restorations.

WREB - The Board will accept a passing score on the manikin-based operative

section of the WREB as an alternative to a passing score on the traditional

patient-based operative exam. The applicant must score at least a 3 out of a

possible score of 5 on all required sections of the WREB exam, e.g. the CTP,

operative, endodontics and prosthodontics sections and must complete two

operative procedures, e.g. one Class II and one Class III restoration OR two

Class II restorations.

Source: Regional and State Clinical Exam Requirements on Massachusetts

Board of Dentistry web site

General

Licensure

Requirements

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112, Section 45: Registration of

dentists; applications; examinations and re-examinations

Applications for registration hereunder shall be in writing upon blanks furnished

by the board, which shall be signed and sworn to by the applicant, presenting

proof of the requirements herein specified. Any such applicant eighteen years of

age or over and of good moral character who shall furnish the board with

satisfactory proof that he has received a diploma from the faculty of a dental

college accredited or recognized as accredited by the Commission on

Accreditation of Dental and Dental Auxiliary Educational Programs of the

American Dental Association as defined in section forty-six, shall, upon payment

of a fee to be determined annually by the commissioner of administration under

the provision of section three B of chapter seven, be entitled to be examined by

the board. An applicant failing in his examination shall be entitled to two re-

examinations within three years, for which he shall pay a fee determined under

the aforementioned provision for each one taken. Thereafter, upon filing a new

application for registration and paying a fee determined under the

aforementioned provision, he shall be entitled to like re-examinations. If found

competent, the applicant shall be registered by the board and shall receive a

certificate of registration signed by the members of the board or a majority of

them, which shall be prima facie evidence of the right of the holder to practice

dentistry. In proof of this right the certificate or a duplicate shall be kept in his

office in plain view of his patients, and, on application, shall be shown to any

member or agent of the board.

The board shall require as a condition of granting or renewing a dentist's

certificate of registration, that the dentist apply to participate in the medical

assistance program administered by the secretary of health and human services

in accordance with chapter 118E and Title XIX of the Social Security Act and any

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 2 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

federal demonstration or waiver relating to such medical assistance program for

the limited purposes of ordering and referring services covered under such

program, provided that regulations governing such limited participation are

promulgated under said chapter 118E. A dentist who chooses to participate in

such medical assistance program as a provider of services shall be deemed to

have fulfilled this requirement.

The board shall examine an applicant who is an alien only if he presents to it a

certificate from the court in which he shall have filed his declaration of intention

to become a citizen of the United States, or from the Immigration and

Naturalization Service of the United States, showing that he has declared his

intention to become such a citizen, or a copy of such declaration of intention,

certified by the clerk of such court. In case the applicant is subsequently

registered, unless he shall present to the board, within five years following the

filing of the certificate or certified copy hereinbefore referred to, his completed

naturalization papers showing that he is a citizen of the United States his

certificate of registration shall be revoked and his registration cancelled. The

foregoing provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to limited registration under

section forty-five A.

Section 46: Reputable dental college; definition

A dental college shall be considered reputable which possesses the following

qualifications:

First, It shall be incorporated and authorized by its charter to confer degrees of

doctor of dental medicine, doctor of dental surgery or doctor of dental science.

Second, It shall have a competent faculty and corps of instructors. The teaching

staff shall deliver a comprehensive and satisfactory course of lectures

supplemented by adequate clinical and laboratory exercises in all subjects

pertaining to modern dentistry.

Third, It shall give a course of not less than four separate academic years to

matriculants who are graduates of accredited high schools or who present proof

of equivalent training, or a course of not less than three separate academic

years to matriculants who present satisfactory proof of having successfully

completed two years of appropriate pre-dental training in a college or university

authorized to grant degrees. Each academic year shall consist of not less than

thirty-two weeks.

The administrative policy of the dental college shall be such as to accomplish the

requirements of this section.

Section 46A: Reexamination for competency

If any applicant for registration, either by examination or under the provisions of

section forty-eight, is registered and issued a certificate of registration by the

board, and does not practice dentistry in the commonwealth within five years

from the date of the certificate of registration, or does not maintain a current

license to practice dentistry in the commonwealth for a period of five consecutive

years, may be required by the board to be reexamined for competency.

Section 47: Examination

The examination may be written or oral or both, at the option of the board, and

may include the principal subjects taught in reputable dental colleges.

Demonstrations in operative and prosthetic dentistry, diagnosis and prognosis

may be required.

234 CMR 4.00: Licensure and license renewal requirements

§4.03: Initial Dentist Licensure by Examination

The Board may grant a license by examination to an applicant, who is of good

moral character, has met all eligibility requirements and has submitted the

following information to the Board:

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 3 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

(1) An accurate, complete and signed application, as specified by the Board for

that purpose;

(2) Payment of a non-refundable licensing and application fee as determined by

the Executive Office of Administration and Finance, unless waived in accordance

with M.G.L. c. 112, § 1B;

(3) An original transcript with the college seal stating the degree granted and the

date of issue from a CODA-accredited dental school or any successor

accrediting agency approved by the Board, or a letter including the college's seal

signed by the appropriate authority attesting to the applicant's degree and date

of graduation;

(4) A physician's statement made after an examination conducted within one

year of the date of application, attesting to the health of the applicant and to any

impairments that may affect the ability of the applicant to practice dentistry;

(5) Documentation of a passing score on each of the following exams:

(a) Parts I and II of the ADA National Board Examination;

(b) The CDCA or other state or regional examination approved by the Board;

and

approved successor examination.

(6) Documentation of current BLS certification or CPR/AED certification, except

an applicant applying for an individual anesthesia permit shall provide

documentation that complies with

234 CMR 6.00: Administration of Anesthesia and Sedation;

(7) A passport-size color photograph;

(8) A statement disclosing any and all disciplinary, civil, or criminal action taken

or filed against the applicant any time after reaching the age of majority and prior

to the date of application, with supporting documentation as the Board may

require;

(9) Proof satisfactory to the Board of good moral character;

(10) An attestation, signed under pains and penalties of perjury, that the

applicant has complied with all state tax laws pursuant to M.G.L. c. 62C, § 49A

and child support laws pursuant to M.G.L. c. 119A, § 16(a); and

(11) Proof satisfactory to the Board of completion of training required pursuant to

M.G.L. c. 94C, § 18(e) as a condition precedent for obtaining licensure.

License

Credential/

Endorsement

Requirements

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112, Section 48: Reciprocity

certificate for dentist lawfully in practice for at least five years in another

state; fee

The board may, without examination upon payment of a fee determined annually

by the commissioner of administration under the provision of section three B of

chapter seven, register, and issue a certificate to, a dentist who has been

lawfully in practice for at least five years in another state, if he presents to the

board a certificate of registration, and duration of practice, from the board of

dental examiners or other like board of said state; provided, that such other state

shall require a degree of competency equal to that required of applicants in this

commonwealth. Subject hereto, the board may waive written examination with

respect to a dentist who has received a certificate of qualification from the

National Board of Dental Examiners.

234 CMR 4.00: Licensure and license renewal requirements

§4.04: Initial Dentist Licensure by Credentials

The Board may grant a license by credentials, without further professional

examination, to a dentist currently licensed in another jurisdiction, provided the

applicant is of good moral character, has met all eligibility requirements and has

submitted the following information to the Board:

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 4 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

(1) An accurate, complete and signed application on forms specified by the

Board for that purpose; (2) Payment of a non-refundable licensing and

application fee as determined by the Executive Office of Administration and

Finance, unless waived in accordance with M.G.L. c. 112, § 1B;

(3) An original transcript with the college seal stating the degree granted and the

date of issue from a CODA-accredited dental school or any successor

accrediting agency approved by the Board, or a letter including the college's seal

signed by the appropriate authority attesting to the applicant's degree and date

of graduation;

(4) A physician's statement made after an examination conducted within one

year of the date of application, attesting to the health of the applicant and to any

impairments that may affect the ability of the applicant to practice dentistry;

(5) Proof satisfactory to the Board of a minimum of five years of practice in

dentistry or dental education immediately preceding the application for licensure

by credentials. An applicant may include private practice; the practice of

dentistry in the armed forces; federal, state, and municipal programs; and intern

and residency programs as part of this five year dental practice requirement;

(6) Proof satisfactory to the Board that the applicant is currently licensed and in

good standing in another jurisdiction based on passing a Board-approved

examination;

(7) Documentation of a passing score on each of the following exams:

(a) Parts I and II of the ADA National Board Examination;

(b) The CDCA or other state or regional examination approved by the Board;

and

approved successor examination.

(8) Certified letters of standing from all jurisdictions in which the applicant has

been issued a license to practice dentistry attesting to the standing of the

applicant's license, including report of any past or pending disciplinary action, or

any pending complaints against the applicant;

(9) Letters of endorsement from two licensed dentists who are in good standing

and familiar with the applicant and his or her practice of dentistry which attest to

the applicant's professional competency and good moral character;

(10) Original report from the NPDB Self-query;

(11) Documentation of current BLS certification or CPR/AED certification, except

an applicant applying for an individual anesthesia permit shall provide

documentation that complies with

234 CMR 6.00: Administration of Anesthesia and Sedation;

(12) A statement disclosing any and all disciplinary action, civil or criminal action,

or restriction of privileges taken or filed against the applicant at any time after

reaching the age of majority and prior to the date of application, with supporting

documentation as the Board may require;

(13) A passport-size color photograph;

(14) Proof satisfactory to the Board of good moral character;

(15) An attestation, signed under pains and penalties of perjury, that the

applicant has complied with all state tax laws pursuant to M.G.L. c. 62C, § 49A

and child support laws pursuant to M.G.L. c. 119A, § 16(a); and

(16) Proof satisfactory to the Board of completion of training required pursuant to

M.G.L. c. 94C, § 18(e) as a condition precedent for obtaining licensure.

Specialty Practice

234 CMR 5.00 Requirements for the practice of dentistry, dental hygiene,

and dental assisting

5.03: Dental Specialties

(1) A dentist may hold him/herself out as an ADA specialist in a particular area of

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 5 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

practice only if he/she: (a) Has completed a specialty education program

approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Commission on

Dental Accreditation or the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada; and

(b) Is eligible for examination by a national specialty board recognized by the

ADA; or (c) Is a diplomate of a national specialty board recognized by the ADA.

(2) A dentist is prohibited from holding him/herself out in directories, listings or

other written or electronic publications as a practitioner in any specialty

recognized by the ADA unless his or her practice is limited only to the specialty

area(s) that is being advertised, listed, or otherwise noted or published.

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112, Section 52A: Illegal Advertising

Section 52A. No registered dentist, person practicing dentistry, or dental

hygienist shall include, or permit, or cause to be included, in any newspaper,

radio, or television advertisement, or in any display sign, personal solicitation or

other manner of advertising, any written or spoken words or statements of a

character tending to deceive or mislead the public, or claiming professional

superiority or the performance of professional services in a superior manner, or

the performance of painless operations of a dental or oral surgical nature, or

shall advertise with signs or printed advertisements, or by means of show cases,

containing the representation of a tooth, teeth, dental restoration of any kind or

of whatsoever design or description or any portion of the human head or neck or

photograph of any person, or shall make or set forth any promises, guarantees,

representations, or statements that satisfaction or a cure will result from the

performance of professional services; provided, however, that the foregoing shall

not be construed to prevent the publication of truthful advertisements concerning

the availability and price of routine dental services by persons subject to this

section. No such registered dentist, person practicing dentistry, or dental

hygienist shall include, or permit, or cause to be included, in any newspaper,

radio or television advertisement or in any display sign, personal solicitation or

other manner of advertising, any written or spoken words or statements of a

character that: (1) contains a statement of opinion as to the quality of dental

services; (2) refers to benefits or other attributes of dental procedures or

products that involve significant risks but that do not include realistic

assessments of the safety and efficacy of such procedures or products; (3)

contains statistical data, representations, or other information that is not

susceptible to reasonable verification by the public; (4) refers to a fee or fees for

dental services and fail to disclose that additional fees may be involved in

individual cases, if the possibility of incurring such additional fees may be

reasonably foreseen; (5) offers a discount for dental services without disclosing

the total fee from which the discount will apply; (6) fails to make a disclosure of

the source and authorship of any message published under a dentist's byline; or

(7) contain a statement concerning the availability of specialty services to

make the public believe that specialty care is rendered in a dental office by

a qualified specialist when such is not the case. Nothing in the provisions of

this section shall be construed to apply to or prohibit, restrict or limit the

operations of the business of a dental laboratory. The board may, by regulation,

in a manner consistent with the foregoing, further regulate advertising by

persons subject to this section.

If a registered dentist contracts with a referral service and a fee is required for

the registered dentist to be part of the referral service network, the referral

service shall disclose the existence of the fee arrangement in any newspaper,

radio or television advertisement, or in any display sign, personal solicitation or

other manner of advertising. The disclosure shall plainly state the existence of

the fee arrangement between the referral service and the dentists belonging to

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 6 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

the referral service network and shall further state that only dentists who pay a

fee are participants in such service.

Section 52B. The clerk of a court in which a registered dentist or dental hygienist

is convicted under the preceding section shall forthwith certify such conviction to

the board, and the board may, after a hearing, revoke or suspend the

registration of the convicted registrant. The board may also revoke or suspend

the registration of a dentist or dental hygienist for conviction in any court of the

commonwealth of a crime involving moral turpitude.

Section 52C. No person engaged in the business of supplying, constructing,

reproducing, relining, repairing, adding or directing the application of any

substance of a permanent nature to dentures, bridges, appliances or other

structures to be worn as substitutes for natural teeth shall advertise his services,

technique or materials to the general public by means of advertisements in

public newspapers, magazines or by radio or television display advertisements

excepting, advertisements in professional or trade papers, trade journals, trade

directories, trade periodicals, trade magazines, and in the public telephone

directories; nor shall any person so engaged in any way directly solicit the

patronage of the general public for any dental services, dental materials or

dental appliances.

Continuing

Education

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112, Section 51A: Continuing

Education

The board shall adopt rules and regulations for a system of continuing

education, compliance with which shall be a requirement and condition

precedent to the renewal of licenses issued by the board.

234 CMR 4.00: Licensure and license renewal requirements

§4.14: License Renewal, Reactivation and Reinstatement

(1) A licensed dentist shall renew a dental license biennially no later than March

31st of even-numbered years. A licensed dentist shall include with a renewal

application, an attestation, signed under the pains and penalties of perjury, the

applicant participates in, or had applied to participate in, MassHealth as either a

provider of services or as a nonbilling provider for the

purpose of ordering and referring services covered by MassHealth, in

accordance with M.G.L. c. 112, § 45.

(2) A licensed dental hygienist shall renew a dental hygiene license biennially no

later than March 31st of odd-numbered years.

(3) A licensed dental assistant shall renew a dental assistant license biennially

no later than st October 31 of odd-numbered years. The first renewal date for

individuals licensed as a dental assistant shall be October 31, 2015.

(4) Continuing Education Required for Renewal, Reactivation or Reinstatement.

A licensee shall not renew, or petition for reinstatement or reactivation of a

license unless and until all continuing education required for renewal,

reactivation or reinstatement set forth in 234 CMR 8.00: Continuing Education is

completed.

(5) Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 112, § 1B(c), the license of a dentist, dental hygienist

or dental assistant who is engaged in active service in the armed forces remains

valid until 90 days following the release from active duty. The continuing

education requirement in 234 CMR 4.14(4) shall not apply to any biennial cycle

in which the licensee was in active duty service within 90 days immediately

preceding the applicable renewal deadline.

(6) A licensee shall not practice dentistry, dental hygiene or dental assisting with

an expired, suspended, surrendered or revoked license. A licensee who

engages in such unlicensed practice may be subject to a civil administrative

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 7 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

penalty pursuant to M.G.L. c. 112, § 65(b) and may be subject to Board

discipline.

(7) Renewal on or Prior to License Expiration Date. A licensee shall renew a

license by filing a properly completed license renewal application and providing

all related information to the Board, on forms and in accordance with instructions

specified by the Board, and paying the license renewal fee(s) established by the

Executive Office of Administration and Finance.

(8) Renewal after License Expiration Date Within Two Renewal Cycles.

(a) An individual whose license is expired for less than two renewal cycles may

apply for renewal of a license only by:

1. Filing an accurate, complete and signed license renewal application and

providing all related information as required by the Board on forms and in

accordance with instructions specified by the Board;

2. Paying license renewal fee for each intervening renewal cycle and paying the

late renewal fee established by the Executive Office of Administration and

Finance;

3. Submitting to the Board required documentation to prove completion of

continuing education credits required for each renewal cycle pursuant to 234

CMR 8.00: Continuing Education; and

4. Submitting to the Board a satisfactory written explanation of the reasons for

the licensee's failure to renew the license in a timely manner.

(b) The Board may require the licensee to submit additional information or

documentation before approving or denying the licensee's renewal application.

The Board may require a licensee to provide such additional information either in

person or in writing. Failure to respond to or cooperate with such requests shall

constitute grounds to deny the application.

(9) Renewal of Expired License Greater than Two Renewal Cycles.

(a) A licensee whose license is expired for longer than two renewal cycles, may

apply for renewal of a license by:

1. Filing an accurate, complete and signed license renewal application and

providing all related information as required by the Board on forms and in

accordance with instructions specified by the Board;

2. Paying license renewal fee(s) for each intervening renewal cycle and paying

the late renewal fee as established by the Executive Office of Administration and

Finance;

3. Submitting to the Board certificates for continuing education credits required

for each renewal cycle, pursuant to 234 CMR 8.00: Continuing Education; and

4. Submitting to the Board a satisfactory written explanation of the reasons for

the licensee's failure to renew the license in a timely manner.

(b) The Board may require the licensee to submit additional information or

documentation before approving or denying the licensee's renewal application.

Failure to respond to or cooperate with such requests shall constitute grounds to

deny the application.

competency when a dentist has not practiced dentistry in the Commonwealth

within five years from the date of initial licensure, or if a dentist does not maintain

a current license for a period of five consecutive years.

(d) A licensee shall fulfill such other conditions as the Board may require.

(10) The Board may, in its discretion, decline to renew, reactivate or reinstate an

expired license and may refer cases of unlicensed practice of dentistry, dental

hygiene or dental assisting to appropriate law enforcement authorities for

prosecution.

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 8 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

234 CMR 8: Continuing Education

8.01: Purpose

8.02: General Requirements

8.03: Required Continuing Education

8.04: Criteria for Acceptance: Responsibilities of Licensees and Sponsors of

Continuing Education Programs

8.05: Categories of Continuing Education Programs and CEUs Allowed in Each

Category

8.06: Certification of Compliance with CEU Requirements

8.07: Waiver of CEU Requirements

§8.01: Purpose

234 CMR 8.00 describes the continuing education requirements for license

renewal. Each dentist, dental hygienist and dental assistant shall complete

continuing education as a condition precedent to license renewal.

§8.02: General Requirements

(1) A dentist licensed pursuant to M.G.L. c. 112, § 45 must complete a minimum

of 40 CEUs during the 24 months immediately preceding March 31st in even

numbered years.

(2) A limited license dental intern or limited license faculty licensed pursuant to

M.G.L. c. 112, § 45A must complete a minimum of 20 CEUs during the 12

months immediately preceding the renewal of a limited license. For each

category in 234 CMR 8.05 where a maximum number of CEUs is allowed for a

dentist per cycle, the maximum for a limited license dental intern or limited

license faculty is ½ the maximum number of CEUs allowed for a dentist.

(3) A dental hygienist licensed pursuant to M.G.L. c. 112, § 51 must complete a

minimum of 20 CEUs during the 24 months immediately preceding March 31st in

odd numbered years.

(4) A dental assistant licensed pursuant to M.G.L. c. 112, § 51½, must complete

a minimum of 12 CEUs during the 24 months immediately preceding October

31st in odd numbered years.

(5) A dental student licensed as a dental hygienist pursuant to M.G.L. c. 112, §

51 is exempt from CEU requirements while he or she is enrolled in a CODA-

accredited dental school.

(6) New Graduates. A new graduate of a CODA-accredited dental school, dental

hygiene program, or Board-approved dental assisting program is exempt from

the CEU requirements forthe licensing period in which the licensee graduates.

(7) No licensee shall be eligible to renew a license without first completing the

requisite number of CEUs.

(8) A licensee renewing a license shall submit to the Board a statement, signed

under pains and penalties of perjury, that the applicant has completed the

requisite number of CEUs.

(9) CEUs may not be carried over from one renewal cycle to the next.

(10) CEUs required by a consent agreement or final decision and order shall not

be used to satisfy the CEU requirement for license renewal.

(11) A licensee seeking reinstatement of an expired, suspended or revoked

license shall, upon the Board's request, submit documentation of completion of

CEUs equal to the number of renewal cycles in which the license has been

expired, suspended or revoked. (MA REG. # 1363, Dated 4-20-18)

§8.03: Required Continuing Education

(1) A licensee shall complete continuing education as a condition precedent to

the biennial renewal of a license in the following areas:

(a) CDC Guidelines; and

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 9 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

(b) Continuous certification in CPR/AED, or BLS, or, if the licensee has an

anesthesia permit issued pursuant to 234 CMR 6.00: Administration of

Anesthesia and Sedation, then the licensee must maintain continuous

certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support or Pediatric Advanced Life

Support commensurate with the level of anesthesia permit obtained..

(2) A dentist who holds a Massachusetts Controlled Substance Registration, a

DEA Registration or who otherwise prescribes within the meaning of M.G.L. c.

94C, shall complete training required pursuant to M.G.L. c. 94C, § 18(e) as a

condition precedent to renewing a license.

§8.04: Criteria for Acceptance: Responsibilities of Licensees and Sponsors of

Continuing Education Programs

(1) To be accepted for credit, continuing education activities shall have

significant intellectual or practical content related to the practice of dentistry or

dental auxiliary functions, or with the professional responsibilities or ethical

obligations of the profession. Non-clinical subjects necessary to provide dental

or dental auxiliary services and supportive of clinical services (e.g. patient and

practice management, legal and ethical responsibilities, third party billing, stress

management) may be credited in the Board's discretion. Courses not acceptable

include, but are not limited to, personal financial planning or retirement planning.

(2) Standards. To qualify under 234 CMR 8.00 a continuing education program

shall require attendance or participation, be at least one class hour (50 minutes)

in length, be conducted by an instructor qualified by education or experience and

retain a written course description.

(3) Certificate of Attendance and Course Description. The licensee may only

receive continuing education credit for those courses in which the sponsor or its

agent (e.g. a nationally recognized professional registry) certifies and maintains

attendance records for at least five years.

(a) Certification of attendance must include:

1. The name and address of the sponsor;

2. The name, address and license number of the licensee;

3. A brief statement of the subject matter;

4. Number of lecture and clinical or laboratory participation contact hours;

5. Whether the course fulfills CEU requirements for dentists, dental hygienists or

dental assistants;

6. The date and location of the program; and

7. Verification by the sponsor that licensee completed the program.

(b) The sponsor, or its agent, shall keep the following records for a period of five

years. All records shall be furnished to the Board upon request:

1. Course description;

2. Faculty;

3. Date of the course;

4. Location of the course;

5. Number of contact hours; and

6. Roster of attendees.

§8.05: Categories of Continuing Education Programs and CEUs Allowed in

Each Category

(1) Educational and Scientific Courses, Examinations, and Specialty Boards. A

licensee may obtain CEUs in these categories:

(a) Educational and scientific courses sponsored or approved by any of the

following:

1. Accredited educational or service institutions;

2. Professional associations and societies;

3. Accredited postdoctoral programs;

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 10 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

4. Local, state and federal governmental health agencies and health institutions;

and

5. Accredited community and teaching hospitals.

(b) Completion of Part II of the National Board Examination for dentists or the

National Board Dental Hygiene Examination for dental hygienists.

Comprehensive Treatment Planning examination for dentists or the CDCA

Dental Hygiene Comprehensive examination for dental hygienists, or other

Board approved clinical competency examination.

(d) Completion of continuing education requirements for maintaining certification

of ADA-recognized board specialties.

(2) Self-instruction. A dentist may earn a maximum of 20 CEUs, a dental

hygienist may earn a maximum of ten CEUs and a dental assistant may earn a

maximum of six CEUs per renewal cycle by completing an individual study

course (home study, on-line, correspondence, audio or video). All such courses

must include a test, which the licensee shall pass to obtain credit.

(3) Teaching and Research.

(a) Continuing Education Instructor. A dentist may earn a maximum of 20 CEUs,

a dental hygienist may earn a maximum of ten CEUs and a dental assistant may

earn a maximum of six CEUs per renewal cycle as an instructor of continuing

education courses that satisfy criteria in 234 CMR 8.04. Two CEUs may be

earned for every hour taught and only for the first presentation of the program.

The Board will not accept CEUs for repeat presentations.

(b) Academic Participation. A dentist, dental hygienist or dental assistant who

conducts research or who is an appointed member of the faculty at a CODA-

accredited dental school, dental hygiene program or dental assisting program

may receive three CEUs for the following:

1. Faculty Appointments. A dentist may receive a maximum of ten CEUs, a

dental hygienist may receive a maximum of five CEUs and a dental assistant

may receive a maximum of three CEUs per renewal cycle through a faculty

appointment for teaching at a CODA-accredited dental school, a dental hygiene

program or dental assisting program.

2. Research Appointments. A dentist may receive a maximum of ten CEUs, a

dental hygienist may receive a maximum of five CEUs and a dental assistant

may receive a maximum of three CEUs through a research appointment at a

CODA-accredited dental school, dental hygiene program or dental assistant

program or other research institution. Documentation of the research conducted

by the licensee shall be provided, upon request, to the Board and may include:

a. Results of research conducted;

b. Publications authored by the licensee and published in a professional

scientific journal;

c. Presentation of research studies at professional conferences; or

d. A written statement by the licensee's supervisor of the research, estimated

number of hours and a description of the licensee's role in research.

(4) Papers, Publications and Scientific Presentations. A dentist may receive a

maximum of 20 CEUs, a dental hygienist may receive a maximum of ten CEUs

and a dental assistant may receive a maximum of six CEUs per renewal cycle in

the following categories:

(a) A maximum of ten CEUs for a dentist, five CEUs for a dental hygienist and

three CEUs for a dental assistant will be given for each original scientific paper

authored by the licensee and published in a scientific professional journal.

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 11 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

(b) For each original presentation of a paper, essay or formal lecture to a

recognized group of fellow professionals, the presenter shall receive two hours

of CEUs for every hour of presentation.

(5) Table Clinics and Scientific Exhibits. A maximum of eight CEUs may be

obtained in this category. The original presentation of a table clinic or scientific

exhibit at a professional meeting will provide a maximum of two hours of CEUs

per clinic or exhibit.

(6) General Attendance at Conferences. A dentist may receive a maximum of

five CEUs, a dental hygienist may receive a maximum of four CEUs and a dental

assistant may receive a maximum of three CEUs per renewal cycle for general

attendance at a multi-day professional conference.

(7) Pro Bono Service. A dentist may earn a maximum of five CEUs, a dental

hygienist may earn a maximum of three CEUs and a dental assistant may earn a

maximum of two CEUs per renewal cycle for pro bono services provided in

public health settings as defined in 234 CMR 2.00: Purpose And Definitions.

(a) A CEU may be earned for each hour of service, and may include, but not be

limited to, direct patient care and oral health education programs.

(b) A licensee seeking to earn CEU credit for pro bono service must submit,

upon request of the Board, documentation from the dental facility director or

person responsible for the program or institution attesting to the licensee's

participation, including the date(s), location(s), and number of hours of service.

(8) Non-clinical Practice-related Courses. A dentist may earn a maximum of five

CEUs and a dental hygienist or dental assistant may earn a maximum of two

CEUs per renewal cycle for non-clinical practice-related courses.

§8.06: Certification of Compliance with CEU Requirements

(1) Each licensee shall maintain documentation of CEUs for four years or two

renewal cycles following renewal of the license, which shall be furnished to the

Board upon request. Such documentation must comply with the requirements of

234 CMR 8.00.

(2) The Board may conduct random CEU audits and initiate disciplinary

proceedings after written notice to the licensee for non-compliance with CEU

requirements.

§8.07: Waiver of CEU Requirements

(1) The Board may upon written request and a demonstration of good cause

waive the CEU requirements. Good cause may include, but may not be limited

to:

(a) Full-time service in the armed forces of the United States or the U.S. Public

Health Service;

(b) Service in the armed forces of the United States during a substantial part of

such period;

(d) Undue hardship (e.g., prolonged hospitalization, physical and/or

psychological);

(e) Disability and inability to practice dentistry or dental hygiene on a temporary

basis;

(f) Matriculation in a program of advanced or specialty study in dentistry, dental

hygiene or dental assisting.

(2) The Board may request the licensee to appear before the Board to determine

whether good cause exists to waive or otherwise modify the CEU requirements.

Advertising

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112, Section 52A: Illegal Advertising

No registered dentist, person practicing dentistry, or dental hygienist shall

include, or permit, or cause to be included, in any newspaper, radio, or television

advertisement, or in any display sign, personal solicitation or other manner of

Massachusetts Laws & Rules Page 12 of 13

Updated: 4 July 2024

The ADA attempts to keep this information current based on information from state dental boards, clinical testing agencies and state dental

associations. Individuals seeking dental licensure should consult with the state board of dentistry and their professional advisors for the complete

and most recent dental licensure information, application requirements, forms and fees.

advertising, any written or spoken words or statements of a character tending to

deceive or mislead the public, or claiming professional superiority or the

performance of professional services in a superior manner, or the performance

of painless operations of a dental or oral surgical nature, or shall advertise with

signs or printed advertisements, or by means of show cases, containing the

representation of a tooth, teeth, dental restoration of any kind or of whatsoever

design or description or any portion of the human head or neck or photograph of

any person, or shall make or set forth any promises, guarantees,