Can the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry levy fines against its licensees?

• A. Yes.
• B. No.
• C. Only after a court judgment.
• D. Only if the licensee agrees to a penalty.

Answer: (A)

The board has authority to discipline licensees, and that includes imposing monetary penalties when unprofessional conduct or violations of statutes or board rules occur. This disciplinary power is exercised through a formal process with notice, a hearing, and a board order. The monetary penalty is part of that order, not something that requires a separate court judgment. If the fine isn’t paid, the board can enforce it through additional actions such as suspending or restricting a license or pursuing collection, all within its regulatory role to protect public health and welfare. So yes—the board can levy fines as part of its disciplinary toolkit.