Which of the following procedures can a hygienist NOT perform?

The administration of contour ortho bands is a procedure that typically falls outside the scope of practice for dental hygienists. This procedure involves the placement of orthodontic appliances, which is considered an advanced intervention usually performed by a dentist or an orthodontist.

Dental hygienists are trained to provide a variety of essential services that focus on oral health maintenance and education, such as oral health education and scaling and root planing. Additionally, many hygienists can administer local anesthesia, depending on the regulations set forth by the state dental board and their specific training.

The role of the dental hygienist is primarily centered around preventive care and treatment of periodontal issues, rather than performing orthodontic tasks, which require specialized skills and knowledge typically within the purview of orthodontics. Thus, the correct answer highlights the limitations in the scope of practice for dental hygienists regarding specific orthodontic procedures like contour ortho bands.