For Immediate Release
October 19, 2026
Sierra Wallace, Communications Director
(202) 355-8431
swallace@dccouncil.gov

Councilmember Henderson Introduces Legislation to
Increase Residents’ Access to Oral Health Care

Washington, DC – Today, Councilmember Henderson introduced the Dental Hygienist Amendment Act of 2026 to expand access to critical preventative oral health care by creating a pathway for internationally educated dentists already living in our communities to become licensed dental hygienists in the District. This bill would also help address the dental hygienist shortage.

“Recruiting dental hygienists has become increasingly challenging, making it difficult for dental practices to meet the growing demand for preventative oral health services,” stated Councilmember Henderson. “Nationally, we are experiencing a dental hygienist shortage. These shortages can delay care and make it more difficult for residents to access routine services before oral health problems become more serious.”

Specifically, the legislation would allow the Board of Dentistry to determine whether another country’s licensure requirements meet District training standards and to grant internationally educated and licensed individuals the ability to practice dental hygiene in the District. Internationally trained dentists often have education and clinical experience that may exceed training requirements for dental hygienists, but the District currently has no pathway for them to practice.  

“Expanding pathways to licensure for internationally educated dentists allows us to utilize skilled professionals already in our communities while expanding residents’ access to preventative oral health care,” said Councilmember Henderson. “This is a practical step toward strengthening our oral health workforce and helping residents access the care they need.”

Similar legislation has been passed in Virginia and Massachusetts to expand the dental hygiene workforce and help meet the growing demand for oral health services.

This bill was co-introduced by Councilmembers Brooke Pinto, Elissa Silverman, and Matthew Frumin.

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