What is the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners?

The Texas Board Dental Examiners (TSBDE) is a regulatory body that oversees the licensing, standards, and discipline of dentists and other dental professionals. Whether you’re a practicing dentist, dental hygienist, or considering a dental career in the state, understanding the TSBDE’s role is essential for maintaining a compliant and successful practice. At Lype Dest Smith Lawyers, we specialize in providing legal support to Texas healthcare professionals, including those in the dental field, to help manage complex regulatory requirements and defend against potential disciplinary actions. If you need guidance, our team is here to help.

What is the Texas Board of Dental Examiners? 

The Texas Board Dental Examiners is an agency responsible for protecting public health and safety by regulating dental practices across the state. Created by the Texas Legislature, the TSBDE enforces the Texas Occupations Code and establishes standards for dental professionals. Its duties range from issuing licenses to investigating complaints and taking disciplinary action when necessary. In addition to protecting patients, these regulations also serve to uphold the reputation and professionalism of the dental field.

For more details on the Texas Dental Board’s role and responsibilities, you can visit their official website.

How the TSBDE Affects Dentists

Compliance with TSBDE regulations is non-negotiable for any licensed dental professional, as it establishes strict standards for education, training, ethical conduct, and clinical practices to ensure that dental care in Texas is both safe and high-quality. Dentists and dental hygienists are required to renew their licenses periodically, complete continuing education courses, and comply with various health and safety regulations.

Failing to meet these standards can result in disciplinary action, which may include fines, probation, license suspension, or even revocation. Even minor infractions, such as lapses in record-keeping or failure to maintain continuing education requirements, can attract scrutiny from the TSBDE. 

For a closer look at the compensation and funding behind this regulatory board, you can explore data available on the Texas Tribune’s website.

What Does the Texas Dental Board Investigate?

The TSBDE is tasked with investigating a wide variety of cases related to dental practice. Some of the most frequent types of cases include:

1. Unprofessional Conduct
   Complaints regarding unprofessional behavior can range from rudeness to patients to failure to maintain proper patient records or breaches of confidentiality. Professionalism and patient respect are essential standards upheld by the TSBDE.
2. Substance Abuse and Impairment
   The TSBDE takes allegations of substance abuse and impairment very seriously, as these issues can directly impact patient safety. Dentists suspected of an alcohol or drug problem face potential disciplinary action and may be required to enter a recovery or monitoring program to maintain their license.
3. Fraud and Billing Issues
   Fraudulent billing, such as overcharging for procedures or billing for services not rendered. Fraud cases can lead to severe penalties, including suspension or permanent revocation of a dental license.
4. Negligence and Malpractice
   Allegations of negligence or malpractice arise when a patient believes that a dentist’s actions resulted in harm or ineffective care. These cases may involve claims of improper or failed procedures, inadequate treatment plans, or failure to adhere to accepted standards of care. The TSBDE thoroughly investigates the situation to determine if any disciplinary measures are warranted.

What to Do if You’re Facing a Dental Board Investigation

If you receive notification that the Texas Dental Board is investigating a complaint against you, acting quickly and carefully is fundamental. Taking immediate action can make a difference in the outcome of your case. Start by reviewing the complaint thoroughly and gathering relevant documentation, such as patient records, billing details, and any other materials that may support your side of the story.

It’s also highly beneficial to consult a lawyer with experience in TSBDE investigations. Skilled legal counsel can help you understand the nuances of the process, advise you on your rights, and prepare an effective response, helping to safeguard your professional reputation and practice.

When to Seek Legal Support for TSBDE Compliance

Maintaining compliance with the TSBDE’s regulations can be challenging, especially for solo practitioners or small practices without dedicated compliance staff. Here are some scenarios in which seeking legal guidance can be beneficial:

• Renewing or Reinstating Your License: If you’ve missed a renewal deadline or have a gap in your license, legal assistance can help verify your application process goes smoothly.
• Responding to Complaints or Investigations: A lawyer can guide you through responding to complaints, representing you in hearings, and helping you avoid common pitfalls that may escalate the case.
• Setting Up Compliance Programs: An attorney can help practices establish or improve their internal compliance procedures by developing policies that align with TSBDE standards.

How Lype Dest Smith Lawyers Can Help You

At Lype Dest Smith Lawyers, we understand the critical role that compliance with the Texas Board Dental Examiners plays in your professional success. Our legal team is dedicated to supporting dentists and other dental professionals at every stage—from obtaining and renewing licenses to defending against TSBDE investigations. If you’re currently facing an inquiry or need guidance to maintain compliance, contact us today at 512-881-3556 or through our website. We’re here to protect your practice and your reputation so you can focus on providing the best possible care to your patients.

Dan Lype

Not afraid to go to court when necessary, Dan has successfully litigated cases all the way to the Supreme Court of Texas. Dan also prides himself on being readily available to clients throughout their cases. He strongly believes effective representation should be a collaborative effort between a client and their attorney.

Years of experience: 15 years
Bar number: 24065658
Location: Austin, TX

Dan Lype

Not afraid to go to court when necessary, Dan has successfully litigated cases all the way to the Supreme Court of Texas. Dan also prides himself on being readily available to clients throughout their cases. He strongly believes effective representation should be a collaborative effort between a client and their attorney.

Years of experience: 15 years
Justia Profile: Dan Lype
Bar number: 24065658
Location: Austin, TX