The Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners and the chemically dependent dentist.

The Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners (SBDE) has adopted the disease model in dealing with chemically dependent dentists. SBDE has found that a punitive attitude toward chemical dependence is not productive. The SBDE works closely with the Dentists' Well-Being Committee of the Maryland State Dental Association to help dentists regain productive lives while observing its responsibility to protect the public. The SBDE's concern for patient welfare is a top priority, but it does not lessen SBDE's compassion for dentists who may be suffering from this illness.