Under what level of supervision is root planning performed by a dental hygienist?

Root planing, a specific procedure in periodontal therapy, is typically conducted under indirect supervision when performed by a dental hygienist. Indirect supervision means that the dentist does not need to be physically present in the treatment area at the time the hygienist is providing care, but they must be available for consultation, and the patient must have been previously evaluated by the dentist.

This level of supervision allows dental hygienists to perform procedures like root planing while still ensuring that a dentist oversees the treatment plan as a whole. Indirect supervision is set forth by regulations that recognize the professional expertise of dental hygienists while maintaining a collaborative relationship with dentists.

Understanding the levels of supervision in dental practice is vital for both compliance with state laws and for ensuring effective patient care. It highlights the importance of team-based practice in dentistry where specific tasks are delegated depending on the established guidelines.