What type of disease can lead to the revocation of a dental hygienist’s license?

The revocation of a dental hygienist’s license is particularly associated with communicable diseases due to the specific health risks they pose to both patients and the public. A communicable disease is one that can be transmitted from one person to another, which raises significant concerns in a healthcare setting, particularly in dentistry where there is potential exposure to blood and saliva.

When a dental hygienist is diagnosed with a communicable disease, it is essential for the safety of patients and other staff that appropriate actions are taken to manage the situation. This often involves reporting the disease and assessing the hygienist's ability to maintain safe practices. If the disease cannot be effectively managed, or the hygienist does not comply with necessary precautions, the regulatory body may decide to revoke their license to protect public health.

In contrast, while chronic, incurable, or genetic diseases may have varying impacts on a dental hygienist's ability to practice, they do not inherently carry the same immediate risks of transmission or public health concern that communicable diseases do. Consequently, the focus on communicable diseases in this context aligns with regulatory considerations for ensuring patient and community safety in dental practices.