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Licensing

Local Anesthesia Certification

In New Mexico a Dental Hygienist must be certified to administer local anesthesia under indirect supervision of a dentist.

By Examination Requirements:

  • Possess a current New Mexico dental hygiene license in good standing;
  • Successfully complete an approved educational program in local anesthesia of at least 24 didactic hours and 10 hours of clinical training given in an accredited program;
  • Pass the WREB local anesthesia examination.

By Credential Requirements:

  • Have a valid New Mexico dental hygiene license;
  • Successfully complete a course of education in local anesthesia;
  • Administered local anesthesia in the practice of dental hygiene for at least 3 of the past 5 years;
  • Proof of certification by examination to practice local anesthesia in another state.

Administration of Local Anesthesia is allowed under General Supervision when the dental hygienist

  • Is currently licensed and certified to administer local anesthesia;
  • Has administered at least 20 cases local anesthesia under the indirect supervision of the dentist for at least two consecutive years;
  • Submits a signed affidavit from the supervising dentist to the Board of Dental Health Care;
  • The affidavit is valid for subsequent or additional locations in which the applicant may practice.

Indirect supervision is required for continuing education and clinical examinations.

For information regarding additional requirements, refer to the New Mexico Statute and Rules.

For an application and further information, contact:

New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care and the New Mexico Dental Hygienists Committee
Toney Anaya Building
2550 Cerrillos Rd.
Santa Fe, NM 87504-5101
Phone: 505-476-4680
Fax: 505-476-4545
Website: www.rld.state.nm.us/boards/Dental_Health_Care.aspx
Email: dental.board@state.nm.us