Dentists and Dentistry - As introduced, changes from at least five years to at least six years, the period of residency and practice in this state that each of the two dental hygienist members appointed to the board of dentistry on or after July 1, 2026, must have prior to such appointment. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 56; Title 63, Chapter 5; Title 68 and Title 71.

HB 2556 increases the required residency and practice period for dental hygienists appointed to Tennessee's Board of Dentistry. Specifically, it raises the minimum requirement from five years to six years of living and working in Tennessee prior to appointment. This change applies only to dental hygienist members appointed on or after July 1, 2026. The bill amends Tennessee Code Sections 63-5-103(a)(2) and related provisions in Titles 4, 56, 63, 68, and 71. It directly affects future dental hygienist appointees to the state dental board.