Which member category of the Dental Board of California must practice in a nonprofit community clinic?

The correct answer indicates that a practicing dentist must engage in work within a nonprofit community clinic to fulfill specific requirements set by the Dental Board of California. This provision is often designed to ensure that underserved populations receive access to essential dental services and to promote the public health mission of the board.

Practicing dentists in nonprofit community clinics focus on providing care to individuals who may not have the financial means to access dental services in a traditional private practice setting. This aligns with the board's objectives to enhance public health and ensure a diverse representation within professional practices.

In this context, public members, dental hygienists, and dental assistants play important roles within the dental community but do not have the same stipulation regarding mandatory practice in nonprofit settings. Each of these roles has distinct responsibilities and regulations that guide their professional practice, but the specific requirement for nonprofit community clinic involvement pertains to practicing dentists.