Licensed Dentists from Mexico Pilot Program.

Assembly Member Ávila Farías proposes revamping California's Licensed Dentists from Mexico Pilot Program to address persistent dental care shortages in underserved communities. The legislation replaces existing provisions with a comprehensive framework allowing up to 30 licensed Mexican dentists to practice at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in dental health professional shortage areas.

Under the program, administered by Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas, applicants must hold a current Mexican dental license, demonstrate clinical competency, and meet English proficiency requirements. Participants receive three-year nonrenewable licenses restricting their practice to qualifying FQHCs. Before practicing, licensees must complete board-approved courses in infection control, dental practice regulations, and opioid prescribing protocols.

The bill establishes detailed oversight mechanisms, requiring FQHCs to conduct peer reviews of patient encounters and submit documentation to board-approved dental schools. Participating health centers must cover application fees, background checks, and maintain quality assurance protocols. Beginning one year after implementation, an evaluation funded by philanthropic organizations will assess the program's impact on care quality, cultural competency, and access to dental services.

The legislation responds to demographic data showing Latino dentists comprise only 4% of California practitioners while the state's Latino population approaches 40%. According to state records, over 2.7 million Californians reside in dental health professional shortage areas, with studies indicating these regions have higher concentrations of minority populations, lower median incomes, and more children.