How many civilian members are on the NC Board of Dentistry?

The North Carolina Board of Dentistry consists of a total of 12 members, which includes a specific number of civilian members, often referred to as public members. The correct understanding is that there is one civilian member on the Board. This individual is appointed to represent the interests of the public and is crucial in ensuring that the Board maintains a balance between professional dental practices and public safety.

The presence of a civilian member helps to provide oversight and accountability in the regulation of dental professionals. This structure ensures that diverse perspectives, particularly those of non-dentists, are taken into account when formulating policies and regulations that govern the practice of dentistry in North Carolina. The civilian member is not required to have a background in dentistry, emphasizing the Board's commitment to consumer protection.

While there are other members of the Board, including licensed dentists and hygienists, their specific roles and numbers differ from that of the civilian member. Therefore, knowing that there is established governmental practice and regulation in this regard is important for understanding the makeup of the Board and its function.