State of Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing
Ensuring the availability of safe and competent professional services
Secretary Celia Jackson
 Secretary Jackson
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Dentist - Practice FAQ

The following are answers to some frequently asked questions received by the Department of Regulation and Licensing. These questions and answers are general in nature and are provided as a public service. Licensees and applicants with specific questions should refer to the Wisconsin statutes and administrative code provisions which govern their profession. In any instance in which an answer may differ from the provisions of the statutes and administrative code provisions, the latter will govern.

Q: Are dentists supposed to follow the infection control guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC)?

A: the Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board has long found that the CDC guidelines related to infection control in the practice of dentistry to be the standard of care. They should therefore be followed.

Q: How long must patient records be kept?

A: the Wisconsin statutes and rules do not specifically address this question for dentistry. While many practitioners choose to follow the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims, each dentist should consult with his or her own attorney to address this question.

Q: How often must radiographs be prescribed?

A: The statutes and administrative code do not mandate as to how often radiographs should be prescribed. The frequency with which dental x-rays are taken is a matter of professional judgment that may depend upon a patient's individual health needs.

Q: Do I have to display my dental license in the office where I work?

A: Yes, the law requires dentists to display their licenses in a prominent place.

 

 

Last updated: Tuesday, October 26, 2004