# Health Occupations (GHO)

## Title 4. Dentistry

### Subtitle 2. State Board of Dental Examiners

#### Section 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. Sec. 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. Sec. 812;

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

  (3) Except for local anesthesia administered in accordance with Sec. 4-206.1 or Sec. 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 Sec. 4-205(a)(1)(xi) of this subtitle through an accredited dental hygiene program.

---

Md. Code Ann., Health Occ. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)