If a dentist fails to renew and continues to practice, what is the likely consequence?

• A. Immediate automatic suspension without notice.
• B. Practice is not permitted; license becomes inactive until renewal.
• C. Practice is allowed while pending renewal.
• D. No consequences until a formal hearing.

Answer: (B)

When a dental license isn’t renewed, it becomes inactive and cannot be used to practice. The license remains inactive until renewal is completed, so the dentist is not permitted to provide care during that time. This status protects patients because the practitioner isn’t deemed legally authorized to practice until all renewal requirements are satisfied. Practicing with an inactive license is considered unlicensed activity and can lead to penalties or disciplinary actions if that occurs. The other scenarios—such as an automatic suspension, continuing to practice while renewal is pending, or no consequences until a formal hearing—do not align with how renewal status governs licensure.