Organization and Compensation of the Board
- The Board is under the Department of the Interior for executive functions.
- Annually organizes itself by electing a president and secretary-treasurer.
- Maintains an official seal.
- Members (except secretary-treasurer) receive compensation based on number of candidates examined.
- Secretary-treasurer receives a fixed annual salary and must post a surety bond.
- Duties include record-keeping of proceedings and maintaining a detailed register of dentists and undergraduates.
Examination and Certification Procedures
- The Board meets twice yearly in Manila for examinations.
- Requires at least 30 days’ advance notice to candidates and publications in English and Spanish newspapers.
- Dental surgeon’s certificates granted to those presenting valid diplomas and passing examinations in specified dental and allied sciences.
- Exam subjects include anatomy, dental pathology, orthodontia, prosthetics, and related fields.
- Fees for certification are prescribed, with authority to set further regulations within the Act’s scope.
Annual Reporting
- Board must submit a report of its yearly activities and financial accounts to the Secretary of the Interior by June 30 each year.
Regulation of Practice and Registration Requirements
- Unlawful to practice dentistry without Board certification or registration affidavit 60 days after Board’s first meeting post-Act.
- Dentists previously examined by military authority may obtain certification without re-examination.
- Exemptions include US Army dental surgeons on duty and persons lawfully practicing prior to the Act.
- "Cirujano Ministrante" graduates with adequate dental study may register as undergraduates authorized to practice in areas lacking dentists.
Registration of Dentists Practicing at Time of Law Passage
- Practitioners must register within 60 days after the Act’s passage and pay registration fees.
- Those failing to register must pass an exam before resuming practice.
Definition of Dental Practice
- Engaging in dental operations for compensation constitutes practice.
- Excludes mechanical artisans and dental students under supervision.
- Does not interfere with physician or surgeon practices per existing medical laws.
Temporary Registration Certificates
- Two Board members may issue temporary certificates outside regular sessions.
- Temporary certificates valid until next regular Board meeting; no renewals permitted.
- Temporary license fees and deposit rules apply.
- Failure to appear or pass subsequent exam results in forfeiture of deposited fee.
Grounds for Refusal and Revocation of Certificates
- Certificates refused or revoked for criminal conviction, immoral conduct, unsound mind, or unprofessional behavior.
- Written reasons must accompany refusals.
- Revocation process includes notice, hearing, and appeal to the Board of Health, whose decision is final.
Display of Name and Registration Certificate
- Dentists must display their names conspicuously at their practice locations.
- Certificates must be displayed in plain sight of patients.
- Violations attract fines of $25 to $100 per offense.
- Owners or managers failing to ensure display face similar fines.
Use of Dental Titles and Degrees
- Only holders of duly conferred, legally recognized dental degrees may use dental titles or append related initials.
- False representation is punishable by fines up to $100 or imprisonment up to 90 days.
Monetary Convention and Effectivity
- All monetary references are to US dollars.
- The Act takes effect immediately upon passage on January 10, 1903.