Final answer:
In Maryland, dentists cannot claim to be specialists unless they have completed a recognized specialty program, and doing so can lead to disciplinary action by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners including fines and license revocation.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Maryland, it is a violation of dental law to claim to be a specialist in any area of dentistry unless the dentist has completed an accredited program in that specialty. The law is specific about what constitutes a specialty area and generally includes recognized dental specialties such as orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery, among others. Those who complete a general dental program are not permitted to present themselves as specialists.
The implications for violating these regulations can be severe. If a dentist falsely claims to be a specialist without the proper credentials, they may be subject to disciplinary actions by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners (MSBDE), which can include fines, suspension, or revocation of their dental license. Furthermore, there may be legal implications, such as malpractice suits if the unqualified specialist practice results in harm to a patient.
The regulations are in place to protect the public by ensuring that dental specialists have received the necessary training to provide high-level, specialized dental care. The Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners is responsible for enforcing these regulations and maintaining the integrity of the dental profession.