What is the difference between licensure and certification in Louisiana dental hygiene?

• A. Licensure is optional; certification is the only requirement.
• B. Certification replaces licensure once earned.
• C. Licensure is identical to certification.
• D. Licensure grants the legal right to practice; certification may denote additional credentials but does not replace licensure.

Answer: (D)

Licensure provides the legal right to practice dental hygiene in Louisiana. Certification is an additional credential that may recognize competence in specific procedures or areas (such as certain anesthesia or radiography credentials), but it does not grant the legal authority to practice and does not replace an active license. Practicing requires an active license; certification can expand capabilities only if allowed by the board, but the license remains the controlling authorization.