Under self-regulation, which statement about licensing is true?

• A. Licensing is handled exclusively by dentists
• B. Licensing is unnecessary for dental hygienists
• C. Licensing is managed by patients
• D. Licensing is handled by the government directly

Answer: (D)

Under self-regulation, licensure is a public protection function coordinated through government authority, typically implemented via a state regulatory board. This means the government sets the framework for who can practice, what education and examination are required, how licenses are renewed, and what disciplinary steps are taken if standards aren’t met. The license is issued by the regulatory system under government oversight, not by individual dentists, patients, or by the profession alone. This arrangement ensures consistent public protection across the state while allowing professionals to govern themselves within that government-established structure. Licensing is required for dental hygienists as part of meeting professional competency, and it isn’t something patients manage or something deemed unnecessary.