The State Dental Commission may, with the consent of the Commissioner of Public Health, accept and approve the results of clinical or practical examinations, subject to such conditions as said commission, with the consent of the Commissioner of Public Health, may prescribe in lieu of the clinically based postdoctoral general practice or specialty dental residency program required pursuant to subsection (a) of § 20-107. On and after July 1, 2021, or upon the State Dental Commission’s approval of examinations that do not require the participation of patients, whichever is earlier, such clinical or practical examinations shall not require the participation of patients. Passing scores shall be established by the department with the consent of the commission.