The following words and terms, where used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
  (1) Dental hygienist--An individual licensed by the State Board of Dental Examiners to practice dental hygiene in the State of Texas.
  (2) Dental sealant--A thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent tooth decay.
  (3) Dentist--An individual licensed by the State Board of Dental Examiners to practice dentistry in the State of Texas.
  (4) Department--The Department of State Health Services.
  (5) Fluoride varnish--A highly concentrated form of fluoride applied to the surface of teeth to prevent tooth decay, remineralize weakened teeth, and treat hypersensitivity.
  (6) Health risk--Any attribute or factor that presents a danger or hazard to health.
  (7) Oral health--Health affecting the structures of the mouth, including the hard and soft tissues such as teeth, jaws, gums, vestibule, tongue, cheeks, lips, floor and roof of the mouth, and adjacent masticatory structure.
  (8) Oral health promotion--Activity that supports or provides active encouragement for the furtherance of oral hygiene, dental care, and conditions conducive to good oral health.
  (9) Program--The Oral Health Improvement Program at the department.
  (10) Public health--Protection and improvement of community health through organized community effort.
  (11) Screening--A non-comprehensive visual observation of the oral cavity to assess oral health status.
  (12) Silver diamine fluoride--Topical liquid applied to dental caries (cavities) to relieve sensitivity and prevent further progression of tooth decay.
  (13) State Public Health Dental Director--A Texas licensed dentist who leads the Oral Health Improvement Program at the department.
  (14) Surveillance--Observation of a population group, condition, or ongoing activity in order to gather information.

Source Note: The provisions of this §49.2 adopted to be effective June 29, 2020, 45 TexReg 4339