Which of the following actions is required by law upon a change in a dentist's or hygienist's physical address?

When a dentist or hygienist changes their physical address, it is a legal requirement to notify the state dental board. This action is essential for a few reasons.

First, the state dental board is the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the practice of dentistry and hygiene within the state, including maintaining accurate records of licensed practitioners. By informing the dental board of any address changes, the practitioner ensures that their license remains current and that they continue to receive important communications regarding regulations, renewal information, or any disciplinary actions that may arise.

Moreover, the notification helps maintain transparency and accountability in the profession, allowing for updated contact information which can be crucial in case of audits or investigations. In many jurisdictions, failing to report this change can result in penalties or disciplinary actions, including potential issues with license renewal.

While notifying the employer, local community, or patients may be important for operational purposes, these actions are not required by law in the same way as notifying the state dental board. Thus, it is the legal responsibility to ensure the state dental board has the most current information on the practitioner's address.