Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Dr. Neal Benjamin, DDS and Nancy Kearn to the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.

Benjamin, of Lino Lakes, is a general dentist who holds the level of master in the Academy of General Dentistry. He is a fellow with the American College of Dentists and the Academy of General Dentistry. Benjamin earned his doctorate of dental surgery degree and his bachelor of science degree from the University of Minnesota. He is appointed as a dentist member to a four-year term that expires January 7, 2013 and replaces Dr. Mark Harris on the board.

Kearn, of Wyoming, is a registered dental hygienist who is a practice manager, dentist assistant and dental hygienist with Park Dental Edinbrook, in Brooklyn Park, Kearn earned her applied science degree in dental hygiene with honors from Century College and has over 20 years of experience in the industry. She is the treasurer for the Minnesota Dental Hygienist Association and is an active member of the Dental Assisting National Board. Kearn is appointed as the dental hygienist member to a four-year term that expires January 7, 2013 and replaces Nadene Bunge on the board.

The Board of Dentistry examines, licenses and regulates dental health care professionals. The board consists of nine members appointed by the Governor.