Maryland § 4-206.4

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 4-206.4, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4-206.4.

    (a)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a dental hygienist who complies with subsections (e) and (f) of this section may prescribe:

            (i)    Topical and systemic types of prescription or over–the–counter fluoride preparations;

            (ii)    Topical antimicrobial oral rinses; and

            (iii)    Ibuprofen not exceeding 600 mg every 6 hours for up to 3 days after nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

        (2)    A dental hygienist may not prescribe a drug:

            (i)    That is classified as a controlled dangerous substance under Title 5, Subtitle 4 of the Criminal Law Article or a controlled substance as defined by 21 U.S.C. § 812; or

            (ii)    The prescription of which requires a federal Drug Enforcement Agency registration.

    (b)    Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, a dental hygienist who complies with subsections (e) and (f) of this section may administer medication, including:

        (1)    A medication listed under subsection (a)(1) of this section;

        (2)    Premedication antibiotics by mouth as required for dental treatment;

        (3)    Subgingival antibiotics and antimicrobials; and

        (4)    Nonopioid pain medication.

    (c)    A dental hygienist may not administer a medication:

        (1)    That is classified as a controlled dangerous substance under Title 5, Subtitle 4 of the Criminal Law Article or a controlled substance as defined by 21 U.S.C. § 812;

        (2)    The prescription of which requires a federal Drug Enforcement Agency registration; or

        (3)    Except for local anesthesia administered in accordance with § 4–206.1 or § 4–206.3 of this subtitle, that is administered by intramuscular, subcutaneous, intravenous, or intradermal injection.

    (d)    A dental hygienist may administer a medication under subsection (b) of this section:

        (1)    Under a standing order in the patient’s record that is authorized by a supervising dentist; and

        (2)    If the dental hygienist includes the following information in writing in the patient’s record:

            (i)    The name of the medication;

            (ii)    The date and time the medication was administered;

            (iii)    The route by which the medication was administered; and

            (iv)    The dosage of the medication that was administered.

    (e)    A dental hygienist prescribing or administering medication as authorized under this section shall prescribe or administer medication:

        (1)    Under the general supervision of a licensed dentist;

        (2)    In compliance with applicable regulations adopted by the Board; and

        (3)    In compliance with applicable provisions of Title 12 of this article and Title 21 of the Health – General Article regarding prescription packaging, labeling, and record keeping.

    (f)    Before prescribing or administering medication as authorized under this section, a dental hygienist shall complete any educational requirements established by the Board under § 4–205(a)(1)(xi) of this subtitle through an accredited dental hygiene program.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 4-206.4

What does Maryland Code § 4-206.4 cover?

Section 4-206.4 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maryland § 4-206.4?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 4-206.4" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 4-206.4 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.