In a recent meeting of the North Dakota House Industry, Business, and Labor Committee, significant discussions centered around the urgent need to address workforce shortages in the dental sector. The meeting, held on March 18, 2025, featured testimonies from key dental professionals advocating for regulatory changes aimed at enhancing the dental workforce in the state.

Dr. Tiguan Brickhouse, a pediatric dentist, highlighted her involvement in developing educational pathways for dental hygiene and assisting programs at Bismarck State College. She emphasized the collaborative efforts of the dental community to address workforce needs, noting the potential for North Dakota to significantly increase the number of dental assistants and hygienists. Brickhouse expressed gratitude for the committee's support in passing legislation that facilitates training for dental hygienists, which she believes is crucial for meeting the growing demands in the field.

William Sherwin, executive director of the North Dakota Dental Association, provided a broader context for the discussions. He pointed out that the Dental Practice Act had not been updated in nearly two decades, leading to outdated regulations that hindered the profession's growth. Sherwin described the extensive process undertaken to revise these regulations, which included input from national experts and a focus on improving access to mental health resources for dental professionals. He noted the importance of volunteer licenses for hygienists, which would enable them to participate in charitable events, further expanding access to dental care in underserved areas.

The meeting underscored the collaborative spirit within the dental community and the commitment to modernizing regulations that have long been stagnant. Sherwin acknowledged the challenges faced during the revision process but praised the committee's efforts to ensure that the changes were well-informed and scientifically backed.

As North Dakota continues to grapple with workforce shortages in various sectors, the discussions at this meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing these challenges within the dental profession. The anticipated regulatory changes are expected to enhance training opportunities and ultimately improve access to dental care across the state. The committee's ongoing efforts will be crucial in shaping the future of dental practice in North Dakota, ensuring that it meets the needs of both professionals and the communities they serve.