Missouri

Current Law

Missouri Revised Statutes § 332.081 – Unlicensed or unregistered practice prohibited — corporation, requirements, exceptions — application for permit to employ dentists and dental hygienists — rulemaking authority

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 332.081 authorizes licensed hospitals in Missouri to employ certain oral health professionals, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons and maxillofacial prosthodontists, for the treatment of specific dental conditions. This includes care for patients with head and neck cancer. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons may treat oral conditions that are part of broader medical issues, such as head and neck cancer, when patients are admitted on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Maxillofacial prosthodontists may provide treatment and support for patients on head and neck cancer teams, including the fabrication of appliances needed after ablative surgery, corrective surgery for birth anomalies, extensive radiation treatment, or trauma-related surgery.

The statute also allows not-for-profit corporations qualifying under federal tax law, as well as certain government and federally supported health centers, to employ licensed dentists and dental hygienists to provide services, including those related to oral cancer care. These organizations must apply for a permit from the Missouri Dental Board to employ dental professionals, though federally qualified health centers are exempt from this requirement. Entities providing services must ensure care is delivered within the scope of professional licensure and without interference in a provider’s clinical judgment.