What is the Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia?

The Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia is a legislated body mandated to protect the public interest related to the delivery of dental care.

This mandate is fulfilled by assuring that only properly trained, qualified and licensed personnel render dental treatment and that the treatment is of a reasonable standard.

The Provincial Dental Board consists of twelve members; six members appointed by Government and six members are appointed by the Professional Associations of dentists and dental assistants. The Board reports annually to the Minister of Health.

The Board administers the provisions of the Dental Act and Regulations. The Dental Act empowers the dental profession as the sole providers of dental care for Nova Scotians. With this responsibility comes the privilege of self-regulation which in turn demands responsible action.

Membership

  • The Board consists of three members of the Nova Scotia Dental Association appointed by the Governor in Council, each of whom is, and has been for at least 5 years, licensed to engage in the practice of dentistry in the province, as long as that person remains licensed during that person’s term of office;
  • Five members of the Nova Scotia Dental Association appointed by the Dental Association, each of whom is, and has been, for at least 5 years licensed to engage in the practice of dentistry in the province, as long as that person is so licensed during that person’s term;
  • One member of the Assistants’ Association appointed by Governor in Council who is and has been, for at least 5 years a licensed dental assistant, and must remain licensed during that person’s term;
  • One member of the Assistants’ Association appointed by the Association who is and has been, for at least 5 years a licensed dental assistant, and must remain licensed during that person’s term;
  • Two person appointed by the Governor in Council, each of whom is not a member of an association.

Terms of Reference

  • A member of The Board holds office for a three year term and is eligible for reappointment for two additional terms of three years, totaling nine years;
  • A member of The Board may resign by written notice to the Registrar;
  • The Board shall elect a Chair and a Vice Chair from among its members;
  • The Board may make such rules as are necessary for the calling and conduct for its meetings;
  • Nine members of The Board constitute a quorum.
  • The Board represents and protects the interests of the general public in matters relating to the practice of dentistry.  It establishes the educational requirements for registration and licensing for the practice of dentistry and dental assisting.
  • The Board approves clinical training programs for students in dentistry and dental assisting.  It also prescribes examinations, where necessary to ascertain the qualifications of persons seeking to be registered and licensed to engage in the practice of dentistry and dental assisting.
  • The Board determines the registration fees and the annual licensing fees for dentists and dental assistants.
  • The Board appoints members to serve on the Complaints, Discipline and Mandatory Continuing Dental Education Committees.
  • The Board shall hear appeals from decisions of the Registrar respecting licensing, registration, or otherwise relating to entries on the Dentists’ Register and Assistants’ Register.
  • The Board provides annual reporting, including financial statements to the Minister of Health.