What are some unique aspects of Maine's dental continuing education (CE) requirements?

Maine requires a one-time opioid management training for all dentists, irrespective of their prescribing habits. Specific regulations are also in place for CPR certification and sedation permit training.

How does Maine handle inactive license status in terms of CE requirements?

Maine's CE requirements only apply when returning to active status, with time-based tiers for CE hours upon reactivation.

What is the process for pre-approval of CE activities in Maine?

Providers can request pre-approval from the board, ensuring relevance. Activities without pre-approval are not eligible for CE credit.

Are there any specific requirements for the first renewal in Maine?

The first renewal requires only half the usual CE hours, with specific content requirements for dentists, such as opioid and sedation training.

How does Maine handle CE requirements for Expanded Function Dental Assistants?

Expanded Function Dental Assistants have a separate renewal cycle and CE requirements compared to other categories.

Dental CE Requirements for Maine Dental Professionals

Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists
Continuing Education Requirements for Dental Hygienists
Continuing Education Requirements for Dental Assistants (EFDA)
General CE Requirements and Additional Notes
Methods for Obtaining CE Credits
Compliance and Provider Approval
Tips for Successful CE Completion

Continuing Education Requirements for Dentists

Renewal Period: Every 2 years (Biennial)
Credit Hours Required: 40 hours of CE directly related to dental practice
Opioid Prescribing: At least 3 of the 40 hours must cover prescribing opioid medications.
Sedation Permit: At least 6 of the 40 hours must be on sedation, anesthesia, physical diagnosis, complications, and techniques.
CPR Certification: Must maintain a current CPR certification. Only BLS is explicitly accepted in Maine.

Continuing Education Requirements for Dental Hygienists

Renewal Period: Every 2 years (Biennial)
Credit Hours Required: 30 hours of CE directly related to dental practice
CPR Certification: Must maintain a current CPR certification.

Continuing Education Requirements for Dental Assistants (EFDA)

Renewal Period: Every 5 years
Credit Hours Required: 50 hours of CE directly related to dental practice
CPR Certification: Must maintain a current CPR certification (recommended and may be required by employers).

General CE Requirements and Additional Notes

Opioid Management Training: One-time requirement for all dentists, regardless of prescribing habits.
CPR Certification: Only BLS is explicitly accepted, making Maine stricter than some states. Specific regulations for online CPR training with hands-on components.
Sedation Permit Training: Six hours required for sedation permit holders. Topics include sedation, anesthesia, and complications.
Inactive License Status: CE requirements apply if returning to active status. Time-based tiers for CE hours upon reactivation.
Pre-approval of CE Activities: Providers can request pre-approval from the board. Activities without pre-approval are not eligible for CE credit.
First Renewal: Requires only half the usual CE hours. Dentists must complete opioid and sedation training where applicable.

Methods for Obtaining CE Credits

A variety of methods are available to earn CE credits, including individual study and specialized courses. Credits must be from Maine state board-approved providers.

Compliance and Provider Approval

Credits must be relevant to the practice of dentistry and should be from approved providers. Dentists must maintain records of CE completions for three years.

Tips for Successful CE Completion

Choose individual study materials that are relevant to your practice.
Ensure compliance with specialized CE requirements such as opioid and sedation training.
Maintain diligent records of all CE activities for compliance verification.