In Louisiana, what is the status of hygienist ownership of dental practices?

• A. They may own
• B. They may not own
• C. They may own with dentist supervision
• D. They may own only in certain cities

Answer: (B)

Ownership of dental practices is governed by the rule that only licensed dentists or dentist-owned professional entities may own the practice. In Louisiana, the professional practice of dentistry cannot be held by a non-dentist, so a dental hygienist may not own a dental office or clinic. They can work in a practice owned by a dentist, but the ownership itself cannot be held by a hygienist. There are no city-specific exceptions; this is a statewide rule designed to ensure that control over dental care decisions remains with a licensed dentist.