Who appoints the consumer member of the NC Board of Dentistry?

The consumer member of the NC Board of Dentistry is appointed by the state governor. This is significant because the consumer member is intended to provide a perspective that represents the interests of the public rather than the profession itself. The inclusion of a consumer member ensures that the board considers public health and patient advocacy, promoting accountability and transparency in dental practices.

The rationale behind this appointment process is to create a balance between professional oversight and consumer protection. The dental profession benefits from the expertise of its members, but having a consumer voice helps to align the board's policies and decisions with the needs and concerns of the public, fostering trust in the dental care system.

In contrast, the other options such as the Board of Dentistry, dental hygienists, or public vote do not align with the established procedures for appointing members to the Board, which is specifically designed to sustain an impartial and broad perspective on dental issues.