What can be a consequence of failing to comply with unlawful practices as a dental hygienist?

Failing to comply with unlawful practices as a dental hygienist can lead to serious ramifications, and one of the most significant is license suspension. Dental hygiene practice is heavily regulated to ensure patient safety, uphold ethical standards, and maintain public trust in the dental profession. Engaging in unlawful practices could jeopardize patient safety or violate established laws and regulations, prompting regulatory boards to take disciplinary actions against the offending dental hygienist.

License suspension serves as a punitive measure and a deterrent to others, reinforcing the importance of adherence to professional standards and legal requirements. By imposing this consequence, regulatory bodies uphold the integrity of the profession and ensure that only qualified individuals provide care to the public. On the other hand, options such as increased patient satisfaction, enhanced career opportunities, and increased income potentials are usually the outcomes of compliant and ethical practice, rather than the result of non-compliance.